Autonomic Nervous System Overview

These flashcards cover fundamental concepts and details regarding the autonomic nervous system, its functions, components, and neurotransmitters.

What are the three divisions of the autonomic nervous system?

The three divisions are the parasympathetic nervous system, the sympathetic nervous system, and the enteric nervous system.

What neurotransmitter is released by all preganglionic autonomic nerve fibers?

Acetylcholine is released by all preganglionic autonomic nerve fibers.

What are the major differences in nerve fibers between the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems?

The parasympathetic nervous system has long preganglionic and short postganglionic nerve fibers, while the sympathetic nervous system has short preganglionic and long postganglionic nerve fibers.

Which cranial nerve is part of the parasympathetic nervous system and what does it innervate?

The vagus nerve (cranial nerve X) innervates the heart, lung, and upper gastrointestinal tract.

What is a ganglion?

A ganglion is a collection of neuronal or nerve cell bodies.

What type of receptors do acetylcholine act on?

Acetylcholine acts on nicotinic and muscarinic receptors.

What effect does the sympathetic nervous system have on the heart rate?

The sympathetic nervous system increases the heart rate.

What is the primary role of the enteric nervous system?

The enteric nervous system controls gastrointestinal function and operates independently of the CNS.

Describe the action of norepinephrine in the sympathetic nervous system.

Norepinephrine primarily acts on adrenergic receptors and is involved in functions like increasing heart rate and blood pressure.

What are the five subtypes of muscarinic receptors and their functions?

M1 (gastric secretion), M2 (slowing heart rate), M3 (smooth muscle contraction), M4 & M5 (CNS functions).