The Gasotransmitter Hydrogen Sulfide and the Neuropeptide Oxytocin as Potential Mediators of Beneficial Cardiovascular Effects through Meditation after Traumatic Events

Abstract

Trauma and its related psychological and somatic consequences are associated with higher cardiovascular morbidity. The regulation of both the gasotransmitter hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and the neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) have been reported to be affected during physical and psychological trauma. Both mediators are likely molecular correlates of trauma-induced cardiovascular complications, because they share parallel roles and signaling pathways in the cardiovascular system, both locally as well as on the level of central regulation and the vagus nerve. Meditation can alter the structure of specific brain regions and can have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. This perspective article summarizes the evidence pointing toward the significance of H2S and OT signaling in meditation-mediated cardio-protection.

Keywords

• vagus nerve
• post-traumatic stress disorder
• hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-axis