neurohumoral

Neurohumoral refers to regulatory processes that involve both nervous and hormonal signaling. In such systems, neural activity can trigger the release of hormones into the bloodstream, while circulating hormones can modulate neural function and reflexes. Neurohumoral control integrates fast neural responses with slower, sustained hormonal effects to achieve homeostasis.

Key features include the use of neurotransmitters and neuromodulators at synapses (the neural component) and hormones carried by blood to distant targets (the humoral component). The two modalities interact in feedback loops and reflex pathways to coordinate organ systems.

Examples illustrate the integration across organs. The fight-or-flight response uses sympathetic nerves to stimulate the adrenal medulla to release adrenaline and noradrenaline, producing systemic hormonal effects on heart rate, vascular tone, and metabolism. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis links neural cues to cortisol release, contributing to stress adaptation. Vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone) release in response to plasma osmolality couples neural sensing with hormonal regulation of kidney water reabsorption. Neural signals can also modulate pancreatic hormone secretion, while hormonal signals can influence neural circuits controlling appetite and metabolism.

Clinical relevance and research emphasize that dysregulation of neurohumoral pathways can contribute to hypertension, heart failure, diabetes mellitus, and various endocrine disorders. Understanding neurohumoral control is essential for comprehending physiology, pharmacology, and many aspects of medical practice.