Purinergic P2 receptors in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus are involved in hyperosmotic-induced sympathoexcitation.

•Increasing plasma osmolality activates P2X2-expressing neurons in the paraventricular nucleus.•Blocking P2 purinoceptors attenuate hyperosmotic activation of lumber sympathetic nerve activity.•P2 receptors are important for regulating sympathetic responses to increases in plasma osmolality.