Basic Components of the ANS

Questions and Answers

What role do pre-ganglionic neurons play in the autonomic nervous system?

They transmit signals from the central nervous system to ganglia. (correct)

They innervate target organs directly.

They provide sensory information to the central nervous system.

They are responsible for signaling between ganglia.

Which statement accurately describes post-ganglionic neurons?

They are primarily involved in neurotransmitter synthesis.

They originate from sensory receptors in target organs.

They relay signals from the ganglia to effector tissues. (correct)

They communicate directly with the central nervous system.

What best distinguishes pre-ganglionic neurons from post-ganglionic neurons in the autonomic nervous system?

Post-ganglionic neurons primarily originate from the CNS.

Pre-ganglionic neurons synapse directly with target organs.

Pre-ganglionic neurons have longer axons than post-ganglionic neurons. (correct)

Post-ganglionic neurons are located in the central nervous system.

In the structure of the autonomic nervous system, where are pre-ganglionic neurons located?

In the central nervous system before reaching ganglia. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the autonomic nervous system's ganglia?

To relays signals from pre-ganglionic to post-ganglionic neurons. Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter is primarily associated with the Peripheral Nervous System?

Norepinephrine Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following neurotransmitters is NOT found in the Central Nervous System?

Cortisol Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter is commonly associated with the modulation of mood and is found in the CNS?

Dopamine Signup and view all the answers

What type of neurotransmitter is Substance P classified as?

Neuroactive peptide Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter primarily facilitates communication in both the Peripheral and Central Nervous Systems?

Acetylcholine Signup and view all the answers

Which physiological response is primarily associated with the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system?

Pupil constriction Signup and view all the answers

What neurotransmitter is released by the parasympathetic nervous system to exert its effects?

Acetylcholine Signup and view all the answers

Which drug is known to enhance gastrointestinal and urinary motility by acting on the parasympathetic nervous system?

Bethanechol Signup and view all the answers

What effect does atropine have on the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system?

Inhibits PSNS activity Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following types of receptors is NOT associated with the parasympathetic nervous system?

Adrenergic receptors Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following neurotransmitters primarily mediate the functions of the sympathetic nervous system?

Norepinephrine and epinephrine Signup and view all the answers

What physiological effect is associated with activation of beta-2 adrenergic receptors?

Bronchodilation Signup and view all the answers

Which drug acts as a beta-1 antagonist, helping to reduce heart rate?

Metoprolol Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following effects is NOT typically induced by sympathetic nervous system activation?

Decreased blood sugar levels Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary functions of the sympathetic nervous system related to digestive activity?

Inhibition of GI activity Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary functions of pre-synaptic actions in the autonomic nervous system?

Affecting neurotransmitter synthesis, storage, and release Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a key role of post-synaptic actions in the autonomic nervous system?

Activating or blocking receptors Signup and view all the answers

In the context of neurotransmitter metabolism, which action is primarily associated with post-synaptic changes?

Metabolizing neurotransmitters for recycling Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of neurotransmitter management is NOT primarily a function of pre-synaptic actions?

Regulating receptor activation Signup and view all the answers

How do pre-synaptic actions contribute to overall neurotransmitter dynamics?

Through influencing neurotransmitter synthesis and storage Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Basic Components of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

Pre-Ganglionic Neurons transmit signals from the Central Nervous System (CNS) to ganglia.
Post-Ganglionic Neurons are responsible for innervating target organs.

Neurotransmitters in the ANS

In the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS), key neurotransmitters include Acetylcholine (ACh) and Norepinephrine (NE).
The Central Nervous System (CNS) uses ACh, NE, Dopamine, Serotonin, GABA, Glutamate, Histamine, and neuroactive peptides such as Substance P.

Parasympathetic Nervous System (PSNS)

Functions include pupil constriction (miosis), bronchoconstriction, enhancement of gastrointestinal (GI) and urinary functions, and reduction of heart rate.
The effects of the PSNS result primarily from the release of ACh.
Receptors involved are Cholinergic Receptors, which can be nicotinic or muscarinic.
Key drugs that modulate PSNS activity include:
- Bethanechol: Enhances motility in GI and urinary systems.
- Atropine: Acts as an antagonist to PSNS activity.

Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS)

Functions include pupil dilation (mydriasis), bronchodilation, increased heart rate and contraction, inhibition of GI activity and urination, and elevated blood sugar levels.
These physiological responses are mediated through the release of norepinephrine and epinephrine.
Receptors are classified as Adrenergic Receptors, including alpha and beta subtypes.
Drugs affecting SNS activity include:
- Salbutamol: A Beta-2 agonist that dilates bronchioles.
- Metoprolol: A Beta-1 antagonist that reduces heart rate.

Pharmacology of the ANS

Pre-Synaptic (Pre-Junctional) Actions involve modifying neurotransmitter synthesis, storage, and release mechanisms.
Post-Synaptic Actions focus on receptor activation/blocking and neurotransmitter metabolism processes.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the basic components of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS), specifically the roles of pre-ganglionic and post-ganglionic neurons. Understand how these neurons function to connect the central nervous system to various target organs. Test your knowledge of their anatomy and function.