Molecular and Circuit Mechanisms Regulating Nausea and Vomiting: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Nausea and vomiting are closely related but distinct physiologic and psychological phenomena that are often experienced together. The incidence of nausea and vomiting are high but our understanding of the molecular and circuit mechanisms is limited. Currently, the drug treatments for nausea and vomiting are not very effective but are often accompanied by unpleasant side effects. Therefore, nausea and vomiting remain a crucial factor affecting early recovery of patients and urgent measures are needed to enhance prevention and treatment efforts, alleviate patient suffering, improve healthcare outcomes, and promote rapid recovery. The mechanism underlying nausea and vomiting is complex and involves multiple different receptors and neural pathways, all of which have important roles. Herein we reviewed the recent advances involving the molecular and neural circuit mechanisms regulating nausea and vomiting as well as the clinical factors and research status of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Understanding nausea and vomiting circuitry and cellular mechanisms is crucial for developing PONV prevention and treatment strategies.