Why the Autonomic Nervous System Should Not Be Overlooked in Modern Neuroscience

The enteric nervous system (ENS) has gained broader visibility, notably through its designation as a “second brain” and growing interest in the gut microbiota. Despite this, this major component of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), both quantitatively and functionally, remains underrepresented in many university curricula and even within neuroscience. Its limited presence in schematic representations of the nervous system may further contribute to this lack of visibility. Even less attention is generally given to prevertebral ganglia (PVG), clusters of neurons located in the abdomen between the spinal cord and the gastrointestinal tract.Both ENS and PVG were described more than a century ago. The ENS was early recognized as a complex network, whereas PVG were long considered primarily as relay stations within sympathetic pathways. Functional roles in gastrointestinal motility were established through in vivo studies by the late 19th century for the ENS and by the mid-20th century for PVG. Renewed interest emerged in the 1970s with electrophysiological approaches, which enabled detailed recordings of neuronal activity in these structures.These studies paved the way for current advances demonstrating that ENS and PVG are not merely passive elements but dynamic and integrative components of autonomic regulation. Enteric and PVG neurons communicate directly and interact with central autonomic circuits. In addition, non-neuronal actors—including immune cells and the microbiota—play critical roles in shaping their function, extending their influence beyond gastrointestinal physiology to broader systemic processes.Recent work has highlighted the anatomical and functional complexity of these networks, including regional specialization, cellular diversity, and neuroimmune interactions. However, key questions remain regarding signal specificity, local microenvironments, and the integration of neural, endocrine, and immune pathways. The interplay between sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, as well as the contribution of peripheral circuits to metabolic and inflammatory regulation, also requires further investigation.This Research Topic aims to gather original research, reviews, and perspectives that advance understanding of the ENS and PVG, focusing on their development, organization, and integrative roles within the autonomic nervous system. We particularly encourage contributions addressing:• Cellular and molecular diversity of ENS and PVG• Development and plasticity of peripheral autonomic circuits• Functional organization and regionalization of the ENS• ENS–PVG–central nervous system interactions• Neuroimmune and neuroendocrine communication• Influence of the microbiota on peripheral neural function• Integration of sympathetic and parasympathetic pathways• Roles in metabolism, inflammation, and diseaseThis collection seeks to provide an updated and integrative perspective on peripheral neural circuits and their essential role in physiology and pathophysiology. Topic editors: Bruno Mazet, Lei Sha Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/80091/why-the-autonomic-nervous-system-should-not-be-overlooked-in-modern-neuroscience