Non-noradrenergic, non-cholinergic transmitter


A non-noradrenergic, non-cholinergic transmitter is a neurotransmitter of the autonomic nervous system that is neither acetylcholine, norepinephrine, nor epinephrine.

Comparison table

This table compares different NANCs in the PNS:
NeurotransmitterTypeLocationFunction
ATPnon-peptidepostganglionic sympathetic neurons Fast depolarization/contraction
GABAnon-peptideENSsperistalsis
5-HTnon-peptideENSsperistalsis
dopaminenon-peptidesome SNSs vasodilation
NOnon-peptidegastric nerves & Pelvic Nerve
  • erection
  • gastric emptying
NPYpeptidepostganglionic sympathetic neurons
  • enhance vasoconstrictor action of noradrenaline
  • noradrenaline release inhibitor
    • VIPpeptide
  • parasympathetic nerves to salivary glands
  • NANC innervation to smooth muscle of airways
  • parasympathetic ganglia in sphincters, gallbladder and small intestine
  • vasodilation
  • acetylcholine cotransmitter
  • bronchodilation
  • relaxation of intestinal smooth muscle and sphincters
    • GnRHpeptidesympathetic ganglia
  • slow depolarization
  • acetylcholine cotransmitter
    • substance Ppeptide
  • sympathetic ganglia
  • ENSs
  • slow depolarization
  • acetylcholine cotransmitter
    • CGRPpeptidenon-myelinated sensory neurons
  • vasodilation
  • increase vascular permeability
  • neurogenic inflammation