The Integrative Action of the Autonomic Nervous System: Neurobiology of Homeostasis

Almost all bodily functions are dependent on activity of the autonomic  nervous system – from the cardiovascular system, the gastrointestinal  tract, the evacuative and sexual organs, to the regulation of  temperature, metabolism and tissue defence. Balanced functioning of each  aspect of this system is an important basis of our life and well-being.  In this long-awaited second edition, the author, a leading figure in  this field, provides an up-to-date and detailed description of the  cellular and integrative organization of the autonomic nervous system,  covering both peripheral and central aspects. The book exposes modern  neurobiological concepts that allow us to understand why this system  normally runs so smoothly and why its deterioration has such disastrous  consequences. This broad overview will appeal to researchers and  advanced undergraduate students of the various biological and medical  sciences studying how the autonomic nervous system works and to  clinicians and physical therapists whose practice involves systems  dependent on autonomic functions.