What is the Origin of Sympathetic Cholinergic Drive?

This is a neurophysiological term, combining Sympathetic, referring to the fight-or-flight division of the autonomic nervous system, with Cholinergic, indicating that the neurotransmitter is acetylcholine, and Drive, denoting the efferent neural impulse. It highlights a unique sympathetic function.

What is the Mechanism of Sympathetic Cholinergic Drive?

The mechanism involves the preganglionic sympathetic neurons releasing acetylcholine to nicotinic receptors on the postganglionic neuron, which then, uniquely for the sympathetic system, releases acetylcholine onto muscarinic receptors on the eccrine sweat glands. Age-related thermoregulatory decline often involves a blunting of this drive, resulting in a reduced sweating response and an impaired ability to dissipate heat effectively, thus increasing the risk of hyperthermia.

Sympathetic Cholinergic Drive ∞ Area

Sympathetic Cholinergic Drive

Meaning

A specific, often overlooked, efferent pathway within the sympathetic nervous system where the postganglionic nerve fibers release acetylcholine, rather than the typical norepinephrine, to innervate the eccrine sweat glands. This cholinergic drive is the primary mechanism for eccrine sweat production, which is essential for evaporative cooling and thermoregulation. The functional integrity of this drive is a key factor in the body’s ability to cope with heat stress.