The existence of parasympathetic innervation in the kidney has long been controversial. Recent anatomical studies have provided evidence supporting such innervation by demonstrating the presence of acetylcholine (ACh) metabolic enzymes and tracing a brain-kidney vagal axis. Although these findings confirm the anatomical pathway, the functional capacity of these nerves to release neurotransmitters remains unverified, and the physiological role of this pathway is still unknown.
Kidney International published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 19 Jan 2026.
The item focuses on Parasympathetic nerves in the kidney pelvis contribute to blood pressure regulation.
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