Autonomic Nervous System Review

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology from the lecture on the autonomic nervous system and its comparison with the somatic nervous system.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

A part of the nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions, including smooth muscles and glands.

Somatic Nervous System (SNS)

The part of the nervous system responsible for voluntary muscle control.

Peristalsis

Involuntary contractions of smooth muscle that move food through the digestive tract.

Preganglionic Neuron

A myelinated neuron in the autonomic nervous system that carries signals from the central nervous system to the autonomic ganglia.

Postganglionic Neuron

An unmyelinated neuron that transmits signals from the autonomic ganglia to effectors.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter used in both the somatic nervous system and at autonomic ganglia in the autonomic nervous system.

Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS)

The branch of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses.

Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS)

The branch of the autonomic nervous system that promotes 'rest and digest' activities.

Neurotransmitter

Chemical messengers that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.

Ephedrine

A hormone released from the adrenal medulla that acts like norepinephrine.

Hormone

A chemical substance produced in the body that regulates activity of other cells or organs.

Exocrine Glands

Glands that secrete substances through ducts to the outside of the body or into hollow organs.

Endocrine Glands

Glands that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Vagus Nerve

A cranial nerve that carries parasympathetic signals throughout the body.

Limbic System

A complex system of nerves and networks in the brain, associated with emotions and drives.

Amygdala

A part of the limbic system involved in emotion regulation and the formation of memories.

Hippocampus

A part of the limbic system vital for the formation of new memories.

Sympathetic Chain Ganglia

A series of ganglia located alongside the vertebral column that are part of the sympathetic nervous system.

Neurotransmitter Receptors

Proteins on the surface of cells that bind neurotransmitters and mediate their effects.

Glycogenolysis

The process of breaking down glycogen into glucose for energy.

Autonomic Tone

The balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic activity in regulating body functions.