Quantitative Cellular Physiology Exam 3

Key questions for Module 3

What is the autonomic nervous system a subcomponent of?

The autonomic nervous system is a subcomponent of the peripheral nervous system.

How do postganglionic neurons signal via neurotransmitters?

postganglionic neurons secrete norepinephrine from varicosites in the axon terminal. The norepinephrine is released along a large area of target tissue and it is received by receptors in the target tissue.

What does the autonomic system target?

The autonomic system targets involuntary functions, mainly acting on smooth/cardiac muscle. It controls heart rate, digestion, breathing rate, etc.

What does the somatic nervous system target?

The somatic nervous system mainly targets skeletal muscles for voluntary actions and movement.

How does the autonomic system link to stimuli responses and emotion?

The autonomic nervous system

What neurotransmitters signal at the neuroeffector junction?

What is the mechanical role of different extracellular matrix proteins in the musculoskeletal system?

What are the functions of the skeleton, tendons, ligaments and cartilage?

Are skeletal muscle groups antagonistic?

What type of membrane potential regulates NMJs?

What is the function of the t-tubules, sarcoplasmic reticulum, and myofibrils?

What are the similarities and differences between NEJ and NMJ?

What is the process for muscle relaxation? Is it active or passive?

What is the temporal relationship between an action potential signal, calcium ion levels, and muscle force?

How do muscle fiber contractions (twitches) sum?

What is the sequence of events for EC coupling?

What is the sequence of events for myosin cross-bridge cycling?

Does the somatic nervous system recruit muscle fiber in series or parallel? How does this relate to the amount of force generated by a muscle?