The Autonomic Nervous System - Chapter 14A

A collection of vocabulary flashcards summarizing key concepts from Chapter 14 of Human Anatomy and Physiology regarding the Autonomic Nervous System.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

A system that consists of motor neurons that innervate smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, and glands, functioning via subconscious control.

Parasympathetic Division

Promotes maintenance functions, conserves energy, referred to as the 'rest-and-digest' system.

Sympathetic Division

Mobilizes the body during activity, referred to as the 'fight-or-flight' system.

Preganglionic Neuron

A neuron whose cell body is located in the CNS and has a thin, lightly myelinated axon extending to a ganglion.

Postganglionic Neuron

A neuron located outside the CNS that synapses with a preganglionic neuron in an autonomic ganglion.

Cholinergic Receptors

Receptors that bind acetylcholine; includes nicotinic and muscarinic types, affecting various target organs.

Adrenergic Receptors

Receptors that respond to norepinephrine or epinephrine; divided into alpha (α) and beta (β) subclasses.

Dual Innervation

Refers to all visceral organs being served by both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, which cause opposite effects.

Efferent Pathways

Pathways that convey motor commands from the CNS to effectors, differing between the somatic nervous system and the ANS.

Neurotransmitters of ANS

Major neurotransmitters including acetylcholine (ACh) and norepinephrine (NE), influencing the effects of the ANS.