Non-noradrenergic, non-cholinergic transmitter explained

A non-noradrenergic, non-cholinergic transmitter (NANC) is a neurotransmitter of the enteric nervous system (ENS) that is neither acetylcholine, norepinephrine, nor epinephrine.

Comparison table

This table compares different NANCs in the PNS:

NeurotransmitterTypeLocation[1] Function
ATPnon-peptidepostganglionic sympathetic neurons (e.g. in blood vessels & vas deferens)Fast depolarization/contraction (vasoconstriction)
GABAnon-peptideENSsperistalsis
5-HTnon-peptideENSsperistalsis
dopaminenon-peptidesome SNSs (e.g. kidney)vasodilation
NOnon-peptidegastric nerves & Pelvic Nerve
NPYpeptidepostganglionic sympathetic neurons (e.g. blood vessels)
  • enhance vasoconstrictor action of noradrenaline
  • noradrenaline release inhibitor
VIPpeptide
  • parasympathetic nerves to salivary glands
  • NANC innervation to smooth muscle of airways
  • parasympathetic ganglia in sphincters, gallbladder and small intestine
  • vasodilation
  • acetylcholine cotransmitter
  • bronchodilation
  • relaxation of intestinal smooth muscle and sphincters
GnRHpeptidesympathetic ganglia
  • slow depolarization
  • acetylcholine cotransmitter
substance Ppeptide
  • slow depolarization
  • acetylcholine cotransmitter
CGRPpeptidenon-myelinated sensory neurons

References

  1. Unless else specified in table, then ref is: Book: Rang, H. P. . Pharmacology . Churchill Livingstone . Edinburgh . 2003 . 0-443-07145-4 . Page 132