Biology Nervous System Quiz
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is primarily controlled by the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)?

  • Regulation of body temperature (correct)
  • Conscious thought processes
  • Skeletal muscle movement
  • Voluntary respiration
  • What is the primary anatomical distinction between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems in terms of preganglionic fiber length?

  • Sympathetic preganglionic fibers are longer than parasympathetic.
  • Sympathetic preganglionic fibers are short, and parasympathetic preganglionic fibers are long. (correct)
  • Preganglionic fibers are the same length for both systems.
  • Parasympathetic preganglionic fibers are shorter than sympathetic.
  • Which description accurately reflects the anatomical origin of the sympathetic nervous system?

  • Lumbosacral
  • Cervicothoracic
  • Craniosacral
  • Thoracolumbar (correct)
  • The somatic nervous system is principally responsible for:

    <p>Conscious control of skeletal muscles. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where do the preganglionic fibers of the parasympathetic nervous system originate?

    <p>Cranial nerves and sacral spinal roots. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is considered a function of the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?

    <p>Cardiac output regulation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The ganglia of the sympathetic nervous system are typically located:

    <p>Close to the spinal cord. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a major difference between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems with respect to control?

    <p>Autonomic is involuntary; somatic system is consciously controlled. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which glial cells form the blood-brain barrier, protecting the central nervous system from blood-borne infections and some medications?

    <p>Astrocytes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of microglia in the nervous tissue?

    <p>Phagocytizing foreign particles (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of glial cell is responsible for lining the ventricles of the brain and forming a barrier with the cerebrospinal fluid?

    <p>Ependymal cells (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the function of an efferent neuron?

    <p>Carrying information from the CNS to muscles or glands. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of interneurons in neural pathways?

    <p>To transmit information directly between neurons. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is meant by convergence in the context of neuronal pathways?

    <p>A single neuron receives input from multiple sources. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the sensory (afferent) portion of the nervous system?

    <p>To provide feedback on the internal and external environments. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following options best describes divergence in the context of neuronal function?

    <p>A single neuron sends information to multiple downstream neurons. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do neurons transmit information to other neurons or organs?

    <p>By releasing neurotransmitters across a synapse to bind with a receptor. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key characteristic of chemical neurotransmission compared to electrical neurotransmission?

    <p>It allows for a more distinguished and fine-tuned response. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the function of neurons?

    <p>To transmit information throughout the nervous system. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main role of glial cells in the nervous system?

    <p>To support and protect neurons. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the approximate proportion of glial cells in the CNS by cell count?

    <p>90% (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?

    <p>To produce myelin sheaths around neurons. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the small gaps between Schwann cells along an axon called?

    <p>Nodes of Ranvier (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of glial cell produces myelinated fibers in the central nervous system?

    <p>Oligodendrocytes (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What neurotransmitter is primarily released by all preganglionic neurons?

    <p>Acetylcholine (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which system primarily uses norepinephrine at the postganglionic level?

    <p>Sympathetic Nervous System (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where does the sympathetic nervous system primarily originate?

    <p>Thoracic and lumbar spinal cord (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes the postganglionic fibers of the parasympathetic nervous system?

    <p>They are short and innervate effector organs directly. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a unique aspect of postganglionic sympathetic neurons related to sweat glands?

    <p>They release acetylcholine instead of norepinephrine. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of receptors do postganglionic parasympathetic neurons utilize?

    <p>Muscarinic receptors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many neurons are typically involved in each effector neuronal pathway of the autonomic nervous system?

    <p>Two neurons (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about the autonomic nervous system is correct?

    <p>The ganglia of the sympathetic system are located near the spinal cord. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of the parasympathetic nervous system?

    <p>Regulating digestion and anabolic processes (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which process is increased by sympathetic nervous system activation?

    <p>Lipolysis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What neurotransmitter is converted from dopamine in norepinephrine neurons?

    <p>Norepinephrine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What physiological effect is generally associated with increased alpha-adrenergic receptor activation?

    <p>Vasoconstriction (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the concept of dual innervation in the autonomic nervous system?

    <p>Both sympathetic and parasympathetic systems innervate most viscera (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which enzyme is considered the rate-limiting step in catecholamine synthesis?

    <p>Tyrosine hydroxylase (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does receptor up-regulation typically result from?

    <p>Sustained antagonist use (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do autoreceptors play in neurotransmission?

    <p>Inhibiting further neurotransmitter release (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following adrenergic receptors is primarily associated with decreasing or relaxing effects?

    <p>β2 receptors (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of receptors are activated by substances other than neurotransmitters released from the presynaptic neuron?

    <p>Heteroreceptors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which metabolic effect does the sympathetic nervous system primarily promote?

    <p>Increased glycogenolysis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the effect of catecholamines released from the adrenal medulla?

    <p>Facilitate the fight or flight response (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which processes are characterized by antagonistic actions in the autonomic nervous system?

    <p>Rest and digest versus fight or flight (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which effect characterizes the activation of β1 adrenergic receptors?

    <p>Increased heart contractility (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does norepinephrine have on gastrointestinal activity?

    <p>Decreases GI activity (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which receptor subtype is blocked by prazosin?

    <p>α1 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which neurotransmitter is primarily involved in the sympathetic nervous system?

    <p>Norepinephrine (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary mechanism by which α2 receptor activation affects sympathetic tone?

    <p>Inhibits adenylyl cyclase activity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which receptor subtype is responsible for smooth muscle relaxation through adenylyl cyclase stimulation?

    <p>D1 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is true regarding β2 receptors?

    <p>They activate cAMP and cause muscle relaxation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of tyrosine hydroxylase in catecholamine synthesis?

    <p>It is the rate-limiting step. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the physiological effect of β3 receptor activation?

    <p>Increases lipolysis. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which signaling pathway is primarily activated by β1 receptors in the heart?

    <p>cAMP-dependent pathway (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the action of dopamine D2 receptors?

    <p>Inhibits adenylyl cyclase and opens potassium channels. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which adrenoreceptor subtype is primarily involved in causing vasoconstriction of smooth vasculature?

    <p>α1 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the effect of β1 receptor agonism on cardiac function?

    <p>Increases heart rate and contractility. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which neurotransmitter is released by all preganglionic neurons in the autonomic nervous system?

    <p>Acetylcholine (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main second messenger activated by α1 receptors?

    <p>IP3 and DAG (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which receptor is primarily targeted by experimental drugs aimed at treating obesity?

    <p>β3 receptor (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

    The part of the nervous system responsible for controlling bodily functions that are not consciously controlled (e.g., heart rate, digestion, breathing). Examples include the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.

    Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS)

    The division of the ANS that is responsible for "fight or flight" responses; involved in stress responses and preparing the body for physical activity.

    Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS)

    The division of the ANS that is responsible for "rest and digest" functions; conserves energy, slows heart rate, and promotes digestion.

    Somatic Nervous System

    The part of the nervous system that controls voluntary movements. Examples include muscle movements like walking or writing.

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    Central Nervous System (CNS)

    The region of the nervous system that consists of the brain and spinal cord.

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    Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

    Neuronal tissues that extend out of the CNS and control various bodily functions.

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    Motor (efferent) portion of the nervous system

    The part of the PNS that carries signals from the CNS to muscles and glands.

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    Sensory (afferent) portion of the nervous system

    The part of the PNS that carries signals from sensory organs to the CNS.

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    Oligodendrocytes

    A type of glial cell that wraps around multiple neurons in the central nervous system (CNS), forming the myelin sheath that insulates axons and speeds up signal transmission.

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    Astrocytes

    A type of glial cell that provides a barrier between the blood and the brain, protecting the CNS from harmful substances and infections.

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    Microglia

    Small, phagocytic glial cells that act as the immune system of the brain, engulfing and digesting foreign particles and cellular debris.

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    Ependymal Cells

    A type of glial cell that lines the ventricles of the brain and acts as a barrier between the cerebrospinal fluid and the nervous tissue.

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    Neurons

    Specialized cells that transmit information throughout the nervous system using electrical and chemical signals.

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    Axon

    The long, slender projection of a neuron that carries nerve impulses away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands.

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    Dendrites

    Branch-like extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons and transmit them to the cell body.

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    Synapse

    The junction between two neurons where a chemical signal is transmitted from one neuron to the next.

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    What is the efferent nervous system?

    The efferent (motor) nervous system is responsible for carrying signals from the CNS to muscles and glands, enabling control over both voluntary (somatic) and involuntary (autonomic) functions.

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    Which neurotransmitters are used by the efferent nervous system?

    Norepinephrine and acetylcholine are the primary neurotransmitters used by the efferent nervous system to communicate with muscles and glands.

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    What neurotransmitter do preganglionic neurons release?

    All preganglionic neurons, which connect the CNS to ganglia, release acetylcholine, which binds to nicotinic receptors.

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    What neurotransmitter do postganglionic parasympathetic neurons release?

    Postganglionic parasympathetic neurons release acetylcholine, which binds to muscarinic receptors, leading to 'rest and digest' effects.

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    What neurotransmitter do most postganglionic sympathetic neurons release?

    Most postganglionic sympathetic neurons release norepinephrine, binding to α and β receptors, triggering 'fight or flight' responses.

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    How do the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems differ?

    The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems differ in several ways, including the origin of their nerves, length of preganglionic fibers, location of ganglia, and length of postganglionic fibers.

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    Describe the pathway of the autonomic nervous system.

    The autonomic nervous system relies on a two-neuron pathway, starting with a preganglionic neuron in the CNS and ending with a postganglionic neuron in the effector organ.

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    Glial cells

    These cells are the support system for neurons, ensuring their proper functioning and protection within the nervous system. They provide structure, insulation, and modulate neurotransmitter activity.

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    Where do the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves originate?

    The sympathetic nervous system originates in the thoracic and lumbar regions of the spinal cord, while the parasympathetic system originates in the cranial and sacral regions.

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    Schwann cells

    A type of glial cell that produces the myelin sheath, a fatty covering that insulates axons, enabling faster and more efficient signal transmission in the nervous system.

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    Nodes of Ranvier

    Gaps between successive Schwann cells on an axon. These gaps facilitate rapid conduction of action potentials by allowing for saltatory conduction, where the electrical signal jumps from one node to the next.

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    Myelin sheath

    This intricate covering around axons is made of lipoprotein material, called myelin, and is crucial for enhancing the speed and efficiency of nerve impulse transmissions.

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    Chemical neurotransmission

    This refers to the process of signal transmission across a synapse, where a neurotransmitter is released from a presynaptic neuron and binds to receptors on a postsynaptic neuron, triggering a response in the receiving cell.

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    Electrical neurotransmission

    A type of neurotransmission where electrical signals move directly from one neuron to another via gap junctions, found in some regions of the brain and other tissues.

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    Distinguish between chemical and electrical neurotransmission

    This type of neurotransmission allows for more precise and nuanced responses, whereas electrical transmission operates on an all-or-nothing principle, sending a signal with fixed intensity.

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    Parasympathetic Nervous System function

    The parasympathetic nervous system promotes bodily functions like digestion and energy conservation, often referred to as "rest and digest".

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    Sympathetic Nervous System function

    The sympathetic nervous system prepares the body for action, like a "fight or flight" response, by activating energy stores and enhancing alertness.

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    Adrenal Cortex function

    The adrenal cortex, a part of the adrenal gland, releases hormones like cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens, which contribute to stress response and energy regulation.

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    Adrenal Medulla function

    The adrenal medulla, another part of the adrenal gland, releases epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are neurotransmitters that intensify the "fight or flight" response.

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    Sympathetic Nervous System effect: Glycogenolysis

    Glycogenolysis, breakdown of glycogen for energy, is increased by the sympathetic nervous system, aiding in mobilizing energy during stressful situations.

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    Sympathetic Nervous System effect: Glycogen phosphorylase

    The sympathetic nervous system activates glycogen phosphorylase, an enzyme that breaks down glycogen into glucose, providing energy during stress.

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    Sympathetic Nervous System effect: Glycogenesis

    Glycogenesis, building up glycogen, is inhibited by the sympathetic nervous system, prioritizing energy utilization during stressful situations.

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    Sympathetic Nervous System effect: Glycolysis

    Glycolysis, breakdown of glucose for energy, is enhanced by the sympathetic nervous system, supplying energy for the body's immediate response.

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    Sympathetic Nervous System effect: Lipolysis

    Lipolysis, breakdown of fat for energy, is stimulated by the sympathetic nervous system, further contributing to energy mobilization during stress.

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    Sympathetic Nervous System effect: Triglyceride lipase

    The sympathetic nervous system activates triglyceride lipase, an enzyme that breaks down stored fat (triglycerides) into fatty acids for energy production.

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    Dual innervation of organs

    Most organs in the body are controlled by both the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems. These systems often act in opposition, creating a balance.

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    Dual innervation: Opposing actions

    The parasympathetic nervous system generally promotes rest and digestion, while the sympathetic nervous system prepares the body for action (fight or flight).

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    Dual innervation: Homeostasis

    Dual innervation allows the body to respond quickly to changes in environment and maintain inner stability (homeostasis).

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    Dual innervation: Rapid adaptation

    Dual innervation helps the body adapt quickly to various situations by allowing distinct responses under different conditions.

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    Neurotransmission pathways: Sympathetic nervous system

    The sympathetic nervous system uses a chain of neurotransmitters, going from the neuron to the target organ, typically starting with acetylcholine and ending with norepinephrine.

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    Norepinephrine's effect on GI activity

    Norepinephrine, a sympathetic neurotransmitter, inhibits the release of acetylcholine from parasympathetic neurons, leading to decreased gastrointestinal activity.

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    Interfering with sympathetic neurotransmission

    Various drugs can intervene with sympathetic neurotransmission by targeting different receptors or pathways.

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    Therapeutic targets in sympathetic neurotransmission

    Understanding the selectivity of drugs for different adrenergic receptors is key to achieving desired therapeutic effects and minimizing side effects.

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    Alpha adrenoreceptor selectivity

    The potency series for alpha adrenoreceptors ranks their affinity for epinephrine, norepinephrine, and isoproterenol.

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    Beta adrenoreceptor selectivity

    Beta adrenoreceptors are categorized by their affinity for different agonists, with isoproterenol showing the highest affinity.

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    Dopamine adrenoreceptor function

    Dopamine receptors play a crucial role in regulating blood flow to vital organs, including the splanchnic, renal, and cerebral vasculature. However, few drugs specifically target dopamine receptor subtypes.

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    Receptor selectivity in drugs

    Drugs are classified as selective if they bind preferentially to one subgroup of receptors at low concentrations, minimizing interaction with other subtypes.

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    Epinephrine's concentration-dependent selectivity

    Epinephrine exhibits concentration-dependent selectivity, meaning its affinity for different receptor subtypes changes with its concentration.

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    Alpha-1 receptor activation pathway

    Activation of alpha-1 receptors initiates a signaling cascade involving polyphosphoinositide hydrolysis, ultimately leading to the activation of protein kinase C.

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    Alpha-2 receptor activation pathway

    Alpha-2 receptor activation inhibits adenylyl cyclase activity, leading to a decrease in cAMP levels. This action plays a role in regulating sympathetic tone and blood pressure.

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    Beta receptor activation pathway

    Beta receptors, including beta-1, beta-2, and beta-3, activate adenylyl cyclase, increasing cAMP levels. This mechanism triggers diverse effects in different tissues, such as liver, heart, and smooth muscle.

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    Dopamine receptor activation pathways

    Dopamine receptors, D1 and D2, activate different G-protein signaling pathways resulting in diverse effects on blood vessels and neurotransmitter release.

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    Nervous system organization

    The nervous system is divided into the autonomic nervous system and the somatic nervous system, further subdivided into sympathetic and parasympathetic branches.

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    Glial cells and neurons

    Glial cells support neurons, while neurons are the primary messengers that carry and transmit information throughout the system.

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    Catecholamine synthesis and metabolism

    The synthesis of catecholamines is regulated by the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase, while enzymes like monoamine oxidase and catechol-O-methyl transferase are involved in their breakdown.

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    Study Notes

    Course Information

    • Course title: Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System
    • Course code: PHID1502
    • Winter quarter: 2024/2025
    • Required reading: Foye's, Sixth Edition – Chapter 13, pages 392–416; Foye's, Fifth Edition Online – Chapter 10
    • Recommended reading: Katzung, Eleventh Edition - Chapter 6, pages 77–94.
    • Instructor: Oliver Grundmann, Ph.D.

    Nervous System Overview

    • Central Nervous System (CNS): Brain and spinal cord
    • Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Neuronal tissue outside the CNS
    • Motor (efferent) portion:
      • Autonomic Nervous System (ANS): Activities not under conscious control; automatic functions like digestion, cardiac output, blood flow to organs, temperature regulation
      • Somatic Nervous System: Consciously controlled functions like movement, respiration rate, and posture

    Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

    • Anatomical division:
      • Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS): Thoracolumbar; short preganglionic fibers leaving the CNS through thoracic and lumbar spinal nerves; ganglia close to the spinal cord.
      • Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS): Craniosacral; long preganglionic fibers leaving the CNS through cranial nerves and sacral spinal roots; ganglia near the innervated tissues.

    Nervous System Neurotransmission

    • Sensory (afferent) portion provides feedback from internal and external environments, modifying motor output through reflex arcs.
    • Chemical neurotransmission:
      • Uses chemicals to transmit information across synaptic clefts onto specialized receptor molecules.

    Chemical vs. Electrical Neurotransmission

    • Chemical neurotransmission allows for a more distinguished and fine-tuned response.
    • Electrical neurotransmission follows an all-or-nothing principle.

    Neurotransmitters in Efferent Nervous System

    • Two primary neurotransmitters for effector responses in both autonomic (involuntary) and somatic (voluntary) systems:
      • Norepinephrine (adrenergic)
      • Acetylcholine (cholinergic)

    Cells of the Nervous System

    • Neurons transmit information
    • Glial cells support and protect neurons

    Glial Cells

    • Make up 90% of CNS cells (50% of volume).
    • Mostly non-excitable.
    • Provide structural support and insulation (some neurotransmitter systems).
    • Neuroglia support neuron functioning.
    • In the PNS, Schwann cells wrap around axons, leaving Nodes of Ranvier. Myelin is the lipoprotein material in Schwann cells.

    Types of Glial Cells in the CNS

    • Oligodendrocytes: Produce myelinated fibers in the CNS.
    • Astrocytes: Form a barrier between nervous tissue and blood (Blood-Brain Barrier), protecting the CNS from blood-borne infections.
    • Microglia: Phagocytic; digest foreign particles invading the nervous tissue.
    • Ependymal cells: Line ventricles of the brain, acting as a barrier between cerebrospinal fluid and nervous tissue.

    Neuronal Structure and Function

    • Neurons are excitable, generating action potentials when ion concentrations change.
    • Receive, process, initiate, and transmit information to other neurons or organs via chemical or electrical signals.
    • Neurotransmitters are typically used for information transmission across synapses.
    • Four main parts of a neuron: cell body, axon, dendrites, and terminal (synapse).
    • Allows extensive information sharing through convergence and divergence.

    Neuronal Signal Transmission Pathways

    • Afferent: Transmit information from receptors and organs to the CNS.
    • Efferent: Transmit information from the CNS to other neurons or organs.
    • Interneurons: Transmit information directly between neurons.

    Nervous System - Neurotransmission Summary

    • Each effector pathway starts in the CNS and ends at an effector organ.
    • A two-neuron pathway for each effector pathway.
    • First neuron with its body in the CNS (preganglionic).
    • Synapses with second neuron (postganglionic) in a ganglion.
    • Postganglionic axons terminate in the effector organ.

    Differences Between Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Neurotransmission

    • Sympathetic (SNS):
      • Originates in thoracic & lumbar spinal cord.
      • Short preganglionic fibers.
      • Ganglia near spinal cord (paravertebral) or slightly further away (prevertebral).
      • Longer postganglionic fibers.
    • Parasympathetic (PNS):
      • Originates in cranial & sacral spinal cord.
      • Long preganglionic fibers.
      • Ganglia near effector organs.
      • Shorter postganglionic fibers.

    Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Pathways

    • Diagrams show the pathways for both systems, indicating the neurotransmitters involved (e.g. acetylcholine, norepinephrine, epinephrine).

    Sympathetic Nervous System - General Functions

    • Adrenal cortex (glucocorticoids, aldosterone, androgens)
    • Adrenal medulla (norepinephrine and epinephrine)
    • Metabolic Effects (increased glycogenolysis, glycolysis, lipolysis)

    Sympathetic Nervous System - Physiological Effects on Organs

    • Diagrams and explanations of physiological changes in various organs (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure) in response to sympathetic activation.

    Dual Innervation of Effector Organs

    • Most visceral organs receive innervation from both sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
    • Usually both systems are somewhat active, with largely opposing actions.
    • Homeostatic concept: One system's activity often moderates the opposing one.
    • Dual innervation enables rapid changes.

    Dual Innervation - Types of Interactions (Organ Responses)

    • Table showing opposing effects of sympathetic and parasympathetic discharge on various organs.

    Neurotransmission Pathways for the Sympathetic Nervous System

    • Diagrams showing the two-neuron pathway with neurotransmitter release, especially norepinephrine and epinephrine.

    Neurotransmitter Synthesis Pathways for the Sympathetic Nervous System

    • Explains the synthesis of catecholamines (norepinephrine, epinephrine).

    Neurotransmitter Metabolism Pathways for the Sympathetic Nervous System

    • Explains the metabolism of catecholamines.

    Molecular Mechanisms of Adrenoreceptor Activation

    • Explains the mechanisms behind G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR) activation. Describes the related intracellular signaling pathways.

    Dopamine Receptors

    • Effects of dopamine.

    Receptor Selectivity

    • Describes the differences in receptor selectivity and sensitivity.

    Epinephrine – Concentration Dependent Selectivity

    • Diagrams portraying how epinephrine's effect changes with concentration

    Presynaptic Regulation and Negative Feedback Loop

    • Explains how the release of neurotransmitters (particularly norepinephrine) is regulated through auto-receptors and other mechanisms.

    Presynaptic Negative Feedback Regulation

    • Diagrams show the mechanisms involved in presynaptic feedback control.

    Postsynaptic Regulation

    • Explains the modulation of receptors by prior activity history (receptor upregulation/downregulation), including mechanisms.

    Receptor Regulation

    • Describes autoreceptors and heteroreceptors, especially for norepinephrine, influencing parasympathetic neurotransmission.

    Interference with Sympathetic Neurotransmission

    • Describes various ways drugs modify norepinephrine neurotransmission.

    Targets for Therapeutic Interference with Sympathetic Neurotransmission

    Effects of Drugs on Nerve Transmission

    • Table summarizing how various drugs affect different nervous system functions. 

    α Adrenoreceptors - Selectivity

    • Potency series for various agonists on α receptors (e.g., epinephrine > norepinephrine > isoproterenol).
    • Blockers of specific subtypes (e.g., prazosin, yohimbine).

    β Adrenoreceptors - Selectivity

    • Potency series for various agonists on β receptors (e.g., isoproterenol > epinephrine > norepinephrine).
    • Explanations for subtype differences.

    Dopamine Adrenoreceptors

    • Important actions of dopamine (e.g., in splanchnic, renal vasculature, and brain)
    • Limited use of dopamine drugs targeted at specific receptors.

    Model Drugs and Adrenoreceptor Selectivity

    • Table describing different drugs and their effects on various adrenoreceptor subtypes.

    Receptor Selectivity

    • Drug preference for specific receptor subtypes.

    Epinephrine – Concentration-Dependent Selectivity

    • Diagrams and descriptions on how epinephrine's effect changes with the concentration. 

    Molecular Mechanism of Adrenoreceptor Activation and Intracellular Signaling Cascade

    • Detailed explanation of the process, including diagrams. Explains various subtypes' (α1, α2, β1, β2, β3, D1, D2, etc.) downstream signaling pathways impacting various organs and processes (specific effects in several organs).

    Summary

    • Summary of all the key concepts (autonomic, sympathetic, parasympathetic nervous system, and receptor types).
    • Overall concepts, including the functional characteristics of each.

    Kahoot!

    • Instructions and prizes for Kahoot games are presented.

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    Test your knowledge on the Autonomic Nervous System and its functions. This quiz covers key concepts including the differences between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, as well as the role of glial cells. Answer questions to reinforce your understanding of human anatomy.

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