| The present programme is devoted to the investigation of the role of endogenous mediators in the regulation of important autonomic organs (heart and blood vessels, lungs, gastrointestinal tract), and the effects of drugs on these organs, in both animals and humans under physiological as well as pathophysiological circumstances. Various in vivo (animal) and in vitro (human and animal cells and tissues) experimental models are studied using biochemical, molecular biological and pharmacological techniques. It is hoped that these investigations will lead to a better understanding of the mode of action of different drugs, and their interaction with endogenous mediators, in diseases such as migraine, hypertension, myocardial ischaemia, heart failure, asthma and bowel inflammation. Moreover, the new knowledge may provide a better insight into the physiological regulation of various biological processes underlying the pathogenesis of the above diseases, thus contributing towards improved pharmacotherapy. |
