Autonomic Nervous System Overview

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the autonomic nervous system, including definitions of various divisions and neurotransmitters involved.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The part of the nervous system that connects the CNS to the rest of the body.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

The division of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions.

Sympathetic Division

Part of the ANS that prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses.

Parasympathetic Division

Part of the ANS that promotes 'rest and digest' activities.

Neurotransmitter

A chemical messenger that transmits signals across a synapse.

Acetylcholine (ACh)

A neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in the parasympathetic nervous system.

Norepinephrine (NE)

A neurotransmitter involved in the sympathetic nervous system that affects attention and responding actions.

Effectors

Organs or cells that carry out responses to stimuli after receiving signals from the nervous system.

Preganglionic Neuron

A neuron that transmits impulses from the CNS to a ganglion in the autonomic nervous system.

Postganglionic Neuron

A neuron that connects the ganglion to the effector organ or tissue.

Cholinergic Fibers

Nerve fibers that release acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter.

Adrenergic Fibers

Nerve fibers that release norepinephrine as a neurotransmitter.

Visceral Effectors

Target organs that are affected by autonomic nervous system activity.

Ganglion

A cluster of nerve cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system.

Rest and Digest

A phrase describing the functions of the parasympathetic nervous system.

Fight or Flight

A phrase describing the body's response to stressful situations mediated by the sympathetic nervous system.

Rami Communicantes

Branches of the spinal nerves associated with the sympathetic nervous system.

Terminal Ganglia

Ganglia located near or within the visceral organs, associated with the parasympathetic nervous system.

Sympathetic Trunk Ganglia

Ganglia located alongside the vertebral column associated with the sympathetic division.

Postganglionic Fiber

The fiber that extends from the ganglion to the target organ or tissue in the autonomic nervous system.