The Auto/Paracrine Function of Non-neuronal Acetylcholine:
Basic Science and Therapeutic Implications
Organizers:
H. Meurs, Groningen, The Netherlands
S.A. Grando, Irvine, USA
I. Wessler, Mainz, Germany
It is a little over 4 years that have past since the 2nd International Symposium on Non-neuronal Acetylcholine has been held in Mainz, Germany. During these years, the important biological role of the non-neuronal cholinergic system has become widely accepted by the scientific community. Substantial contributions enlarged current knowledge on the auto/paracrine cholinergic function of non-neuronal acetylcholine. The cellular signaling pathways under physiological and pathophysiological conditions are being elucidated. Milestones include: an unexpectedly wide distribution and variety of nicotinic and muscarinic receptors outside the neural system, the role of transporter proteins, cholinergic anti-inflammatory function, nicotinic receptor-mediated pathobiologic effects, including tobacco-related cancers, as well as the role of auto- and paracrine acetylcholine in the physiologic control of vital functions of various types of non-neuronal cells. The 3rd International Symposium on Non-neuronal Acetylcholine will be held in August 2011 in Groningen, The Netherlands and promises to be as exciting and cutting edge as the previous meetings.
