[PDF][PDF] Arterial baroreceptors sense blood pressure through decorated aortic claws

S Min, RB Chang, SL Prescott, B Beeler, NR Joshi… - Cell reports, 2019 - cell.com
S Min, RB Chang, SL Prescott, B Beeler, NR Joshi, DE Strochlic, SD Liberles
Cell reports, 2019cell.com
Mechanosensory neurons across physiological systems sense force using diverse terminal
morphologies. Arterial baroreceptors are sensory neurons that monitor blood pressure for
real-time stabilization of cardiovascular output. Various aortic sensory terminals have been
described, but those that sense blood pressure are unclear because of a lack of selective
genetic tools. Here, we find that all baroreceptor neurons are marked in Piezo2-ires-Cre
mice and then use genetic approaches to visualize the architecture of mechanosensory …
Summary
Mechanosensory neurons across physiological systems sense force using diverse terminal morphologies. Arterial baroreceptors are sensory neurons that monitor blood pressure for real-time stabilization of cardiovascular output. Various aortic sensory terminals have been described, but those that sense blood pressure are unclear because of a lack of selective genetic tools. Here, we find that all baroreceptor neurons are marked in Piezo2-ires-Cre mice and then use genetic approaches to visualize the architecture of mechanosensory endings. Cre-guided ablation of vagal and glossopharyngeal PIEZO2 neurons eliminates the baroreceptor reflex and aortic depressor nerve effects on blood pressure and heart rate. Genetic mapping reveals that PIEZO2 neurons form a distinctive mechanosensory structure: macroscopic claws that surround the aortic arch and exude fine end-net endings. Other arterial sensory neurons that form flower-spray terminals are dispensable for baroreception. Together, these findings provide structural insights into how blood pressure is sensed in the aortic vessel wall.
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