Cardiovascular Neuroendocrinology (imported)

The cardiovascular system and the neuroendocrine system are integrated at multiple levels. This integration is key to normal physiological function. Further, it adapts to accommodate changes related to aging, the organism?s reproductive state, or physiological challenges. This type of adaptability, or plasticity, also can contribute to pathophysiology when these systems are stressed. This volume discusses how neuroendocrine systems influence cardiovascular function in health and disease. The first section provides detailed background information on neuronal and neuroendocrine control of cardiovascular function. This is followed by chapters highlighting the cardiovascular role of neuroendocrine hormones in regulating physiological states, such as pregnancy, and the effects of biological sex on vascular function. The influence of exercise, stress, psychology, and aging on cardiovascular function and dysfunction, and the possibility of therapeutically targeting the neuroendocrine axis for the treatment of cardiovascular disease are discussed in the final section of the book.