Adrenergic Neurons in the CNS

Within the central nervous system there are three groups of neurons that express all of the enzymes required for generation of the catecholamine, adrenaline. The cell groups, called the C1, C2, and C3 cell groups, are located in the medulla oblongata. Their axons project widely throughout the CNS, from the sacral spinal cord to the olfactory nucleus. While they are predominantly studied within the context of a spinal projection to sympathetic preganglionic neurons, and a role in cardiovascular regulation, this review outlines data showing a wider range of projections and potential functions that suggest a much broader role for these neurons.