This research reveals distinct nociceptive reflexes and innervation patterns among vagal afferents, suggesting potential pathways for respiratory responses.
Key Points
Distinct vagal afferent subsets provide sensory innervation to the lower airways, indicating complex reflex responses.
Our intersectional genetic approach identifies unique populations, labeling nodose nociceptors with TRPV1 and P2X2 co-expression.
Different vagal afferent populations project to specific brain regions, influencing various respiratory reflex actions.
Chemogenetic activation of these subsets triggers distinct cardiorespiratory effects, highlighting their critical roles in airway responses.