Autonomic Nervous System and Cholinergic Drugs

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Questions and Answers

What distinguishes the presynaptic neurons of the parasympathetic nervous system?

They release norepinephrine as a neurotransmitter.

They have shorter axons than postsynaptic neurons.

They originate from the medulla oblongata and sacral spinal cord. (correct)

They are located only in the thoracic region.

Which of the following correctly describes the role of the sympathetic nervous system?

It decreases heart rate and blood pressure.

It elicits the 'fight or flight' response. (correct)

It suppresses bodily functions during rest.

It promotes digestion and nutrient absorption.

What is the function of postsynaptic neurons in the parasympathetic nervous system?

They conduct impulses back to the central nervous system.

They synapse directly with the presynaptic neurons.

They typically have very long axons compared to presynaptic neurons.

They transmit impulses to target organs after receiving them from presynaptic neurons. (correct)

Where are the parasympathetic ganglia typically located?

Near or within the target organs. Signup and view all the answers

Why are parasympathetic pathways referred to as cholinergic pathways?

Due to the presence of acetylcholine as the primary neurotransmitter. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?

Regulates the function of the viscera and internal organ functions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are components of the autonomic nervous system?

Sympathetic system Signup and view all the answers

The sympathetic and parasympathetic systems can be described as complementary systems.

False Signup and view all the answers

What neurotransmitter is primarily used in parasympathetic pathways?

Acetylcholine Signup and view all the answers

The presynaptic neurons of the parasympathetic system are located within the ______ and sacral spinal cord.

medulla oblongata Signup and view all the answers

What role does acetylcholine (ACh) play in muscle movement?

It stimulates muscle contraction. Signup and view all the answers

What enzyme is responsible for the synthesis of acetylcholine?

Choline acetyltransferase Signup and view all the answers

Acetylcholine binds to both nicotinic and muscarinic receptors.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of acetylcholinesterase?

It breaks down acetylcholine in the synapse. Signup and view all the answers

How does acetylcholine affect heart rate?

It decreases heart rate. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

The ANS is a branch of the peripheral nervous system (PNS)
It regulates visceral functions (e.g., organs)
It innervates smooth muscle and glands
Divided into parasympathetic and sympathetic systems

Cholinergic System Drugs

The cholinergic system uses acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter
The parasympathetic nervous system is also known as the cholinergic system
It plays a role in many bodily functions including heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and more
The sympathetic nervous system can be thought of as having opposing actions to the parasympathetic
The sympathetic nervous system uses norepinephrine

Cholinergic Agonists

These drugs mimic the action of acetylcholine
Examples include bethanechol, carbachol, pilocarpine, and nicotine

Cholinergic Antagonists

These drugs block the action of acetylcholine
Examples include atropine, scopolamine, and others

Anticholinesterase Drugs

These inhibit the breakdown of acetylcholine, increasing its concentration
They are used to treat conditions like myasthenia gravis
Examples include physostigmine, neostigmine, and others

Muscarinic Receptors

These are receptors that acetylcholine binds to
Different types of receptors exist (M1-M5)
These receptors mediate various functions throughout the body

Nicotinic Receptors

These are other receptors that acetylcholine binds to
These are found in the autonomic nervous system (ANS)
They regulate muscle/movement (and more)

Effects of Drugs on Cholinergic Transmission

Cholinergic agonists mimic acetylcholine's effects
Cholinergic antagonists block acetylcholine's effects
Anticholinesterase drugs inhibit enzymes that break down acetylcholine

Myasthenia Gravis

A chronic autoimmune disorder
Skeletal muscle weakness is a symptom of this disease
Antibodies interfere with acetylcholine receptors
It's treated with medications like cholinesterase inhibitors

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Description

Explore the intricacies of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and the role of cholinergic drugs in regulating bodily functions. This quiz covers key components such as cholinergic agonists and antagonists, as well as anticholinesterase medications. Test your knowledge on how these systems interact to maintain homeostasis.