Endothelin and post-ganglionic sympathetic neurons

1. The present report documents evidence suggesting that endothelin (ET) is a mediator and modulator of post-ganglionic sympathetic neuronal development, 2. Endothelin is produced by post-ganglionic neurons and by cells adjacent to these neurons, 3. Post-ganglionic sympathetic neurons express functional receptors for ET, 4. Endothelin promotes the survival of cultured postganglionic sympathetic neurons and modulates the morphological and biochemical differentiation of these neurons, 5. Endothelin enhances the activity of nerve growth factor and modulates the release of neurotransmitter from postganglionic sympathetic nerve terminals.