C1 neurons excite locus coeruleus and A5 noradrenergic neurons along with sympathetic outflow in rats

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Abstract
Key points: C1 neurons activate sympathetic tone and stimulate the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis in circumstances such as pain, hypoxia or hypotension. C1 neurons innervate pontine noradrenergic cell groups, including the locus coeruleus (LC) and A5. In this study, using an optogenetic approach in anaesthetized rats, we show that C1 neurons form excitatory synapses with LC neurons and that selective stimulation of C1 neurons activates LC and A5 neurons. These results show that the C1 neurons activate pontine noradrenergic neurons through the release of glutamate. This effect may be important in the arousal‐promoting effects of hypoxia and pain.

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