Nervous System Overview Quiz
96 Questions
4 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What situation typically activates the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system?

  • Sleep and recovery
  • Regular digestion
  • Relaxation and rest
  • Stress and danger (correct)
  • What is the primary neurotransmitter released by sympathetic postganglionic neurons?

  • Dopamine
  • Norepinephrine (correct)
  • Acetylcholine
  • Serotonin
  • Which term is associated with the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system?

  • Fight or flight
  • Adrenal activation
  • Stress response
  • Rest and digest (correct)
  • In the sympathetic division, what role do varicosities serve?

    <p>They enable widespread neurotransmitter release.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which amino acid is the precursor to norepinephrine and epinephrine?

    <p>Tyrosine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of receptors do norepinephrine and epinephrine primarily activate?

    <p>Adrenergic receptors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What physiological effect does the sympathetic division NOT typically induce?

    <p>Decreased alertness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What best describes the nature of cooperation between sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions?

    <p>They may work together to control complex processes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the enzyme responsible for converting dopamine to norepinephrine?

    <p>Dopamine beta-hydroxylase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What initiates the release of norepinephrine and epinephrine from nerve terminals?

    <p>Stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which G protein is involved in the activation of α1 adrenergic receptors?

    <p>Gq/11</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary effect of activating α2 adrenergic receptors?

    <p>Inhibition of adenylyl cyclase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to norepinephrine and epinephrine after they exert their effects?

    <p>They are degraded by enzymes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which receptor type activates Gs protein to generate cAMP?

    <p>β1 adrenergic receptor</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the enzyme phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase?

    <p>Converts norepinephrine to epinephrine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs)?

    <p>They facilitate signal transduction in cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the central nervous system (CNS)?

    <p>To integrate and coordinate sensory information and motor commands</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following correctly describes the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?

    <p>It connects the CNS with muscles, organs, and sensory receptors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which division of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response?

    <p>Sympathetic division</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system work together?

    <p>They work in opposition to maintain homeostasis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a function of the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?

    <p>Facilitating voluntary movement</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The somatic nervous system (SNS) is primarily responsible for which of the following?

    <p>Carrying sensory information to the CNS</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which neurotransmitter is primarily associated with the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system?

    <p>Norepinephrine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which system is primarily responsible for interacting with the environment through conscious control?

    <p>Somatic nervous system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of neurotransmitter is released by all parasympathetic neurons?

    <p>Acetylcholine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which receptor type is associated with longer-lasting effects in the parasympathetic division?

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

    Which statement accurately describes the anatomical differences between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions?

    <p>The parasympathetic division has a localized impact on visceral structures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does activation of nicotinic receptors have on ganglionic neurons?

    <p>Short-lived excitation of ganglionic neurons.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes the parasympathetic division's long preganglionic neurons?

    <p>They utilize acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about dual innervation is true?

    <p>Some organs are innervated by just one division, while most receive dual innervation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?

    <p>Routine adjustments in physiological homeostasis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of receptor in the parasympathetic division can produce excitatory or inhibitory responses?

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

    Explain the main difference between the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).

    <p>The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS includes all nerves that branch out from the CNS to connect it with the rest of the body.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the two primary divisions of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), and how do they function in relation to each other?

    <p>The two primary divisions of the ANS are the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, which generally work in opposition to maintain homeostasis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Identify the voluntary functions primarily controlled by the somatic nervous system (SNS).

    <p>The SNS controls voluntary movements and carries sensory information from the body's receptors to the CNS.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Describe the role of neurotransmitters in the autonomic nervous system (ANS).

    <p>Neurotransmitters in the ANS mediate responses on target organs and tissues, influencing functions like heart rate and digestion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the structure of preganglionic neurons in the parasympathetic division differ from that of the sympathetic division?

    <p>Parasympathetic division neurons have long preganglionic fibers that synapse close to target organs, whereas sympathetic division neurons have short preganglionic fibers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the spinal cord within the central nervous system (CNS)?

    <p>The spinal cord serves as a pathway for nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body, integrating reflexes and other functions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Explain the concept of dual innervation in the context of autonomic regulation.

    <p>Dual innervation refers to the phenomenon where most organs receive nerve fibers from both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, allowing for fine-tuned regulation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Differentiate between the roles of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions in the regulation of bodily functions.

    <p>The sympathetic division prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses, while the parasympathetic division promotes 'rest and digest' activities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Explain the role of adrenaline in the sympathetic division during stress.

    <p>Adrenaline increases heart rate, dilates airways, and redirects blood flow to muscles, preparing the body for a 'fight or flight' response.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What neurotransmitter is released by sympathetic pre-ganglionic neurons at cholinergic synapses?

    <p>Sympathetic pre-ganglionic neurons release acetylcholine (ACh) at cholinergic synapses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Describe how norepinephrine and epinephrine are synthesized.

    <p>They are synthesized from the amino acid tyrosine through a series of enzymatic reactions, primarily in the adrenal medulla and sympathetic nerve terminals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do the effects of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions contrast on the body?

    <p>The sympathetic division promotes 'fight or flight' responses, increasing alertness and metabolism, while the parasympathetic division induces 'rest and digest' activities, promoting relaxation and restoration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Define the main function of sympathetic varicosities in the SNS.

    <p>Sympathetic varicosities act as sites of neurotransmitter release, enabling diffuse communication with target cells throughout the sympathetic nervous system.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What initiates the signaling process at adrenergic receptors?

    <p>Norepinephrine and epinephrine bind to adrenergic receptors, which are G protein-coupled receptors, triggering intracellular signaling pathways.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Discuss the role of tyrosine hydroxylase in neurotransmitter synthesis.

    <p>Tyrosine hydroxylase is the enzyme that converts tyrosine into dopamine, the first step in the synthesis of norepinephrine and epinephrine.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Identify the physiological role of the parasympathetic division in the body.

    <p>The parasympathetic division promotes restorative processes during rest, such as slowing the heart rate and stimulating digestion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Explain how norepinephrine and epinephrine are released into the synaptic cleft.

    <p>Norepinephrine and epinephrine are released into the synaptic cleft upon stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system, triggered by action potentials.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO) in the context of norepinephrine and epinephrine?

    <p>Monoamine oxidase (MAO) degrades norepinephrine and epinephrine after they exert their effects, regulating their levels in the synaptic cleft.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Describe the process of G protein activation in G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs).

    <p>Upon activation by a GPCR, GDP is exchanged for GTP on the α subunit of the G-protein, resulting in the separation of Gα and Gβγ.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Differentiate between the signaling pathways activated by α1 and β1 adrenergic receptors.

    <p>α1 receptors activate the Gq/11 family leading to phospholipase C activation, whereas β1 receptors activate Gs, increasing cAMP production.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does the activation of Gi proteins by α2 adrenergic receptors have on the cell?

    <p>Activation of Gi proteins by α2 adrenergic receptors inhibits adenylyl cyclase, leading to decreased cAMP levels in the cell.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the fate of norepinephrine after it has bound to adrenergic receptors?

    <p>After binding to adrenergic receptors, norepinephrine can be taken back up into nerve terminals for recycling or degraded by enzymes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Summarize the role of phospholipase C (PLC) in α1 adrenergic receptor signaling.

    <p>Phospholipase C (PLC) cleaves PIP2 into IP3 and DAG, leading to the release of intracellular calcium ions and excitatory effects.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the degradation of norepinephrine and epinephrine contribute to neurotransmitter regulation?

    <p>The degradation of norepinephrine and epinephrine by enzymes like MAO and COMT ensures that their levels are regulated and prevents prolonged signaling.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes the roles of nicotinic and muscarinic receptors in the parasympathetic division?

    <p>Nicotinic receptors cause short-lived excitation in ganglionic cells, while muscarinic receptors produce longer-lasting effects that can be either excitatory or inhibitory.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Explain how the length of preganglionic and postganglionic neurons in the parasympathetic division differs from that in the sympathetic division.

    <p>The parasympathetic division has long preganglionic neurons and short postganglionic neurons, whereas the sympathetic division features short preganglionic neurons and long postganglionic neurons.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the mechanism of ACh release differ between nicotinic and muscarinic receptors?

    <p>Nicotinic receptors function by opening chemically gated channels for rapid response, while muscarinic receptors act as GPCRs, resulting in slower and more sustained effects.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does the distribution of innervation between visceral organs differ in the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems?

    <p>Some organs are innervated by only one division, but most receive dual innervation, providing a balance of sympathetic and parasympathetic influences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Describe how the effects of the sympathetic division contrast with those of the parasympathetic division.

    <p>The sympathetic division typically increases metabolic rates and prepares the body for action, while the parasympathetic division conserves energy and promotes restful functions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the second messenger systems activated by muscarinic receptors in the parasympathetic division?

    <p>Muscarinic receptors may activate various second messenger systems that influence long-term physiological responses, allowing for modulation of cellular activity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Illustrate how the physiological responses initiated by the receptors in the parasympathetic division differ from those produced by sympathetic responses.

    <p>Parasympathetic responses, mediated primarily by ACh through muscarinic receptors, can be either excitatory or inhibitory, unlike sympathetic responses which are generally excitatory.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the implications of having ganglionic cells in both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions for organ function?

    <p>The presence of ganglionic cells in both divisions ensures a balanced regulation of organ functions, allowing for appropriate responses to various physiological states.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following enzymes with their corresponding functions in neurotransmitter synthesis:

    <p>Dopamine beta-hydroxylase = Converts dopamine to norepinephrine Phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase = Converts norepinephrine to epinephrine Monoamine oxidase (MAO) = Degrades norepinephrine and epinephrine Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) = Degrades norepinephrine and epinephrine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the adrenergic receptor class with their main signaling mechanism:

    <p>α1 receptors = Activate phospholipase C (PLC) α2 receptors = Inhibit adenylyl cyclase β1 receptors = Activate adenylyl cyclase to generate cAMP β3 receptors = Activate adenylyl cyclase to generate cAMP</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the main physiological response to the following adrenergic receptors:

    <p>α1 receptors = Excitatory response by releasing intracellular calcium ions α2 receptors = Inhibitory response by reducing cAMP β1 receptors = Increases heart rate and contraction force β2 receptors = Smooth muscle relaxation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following steps with their order in the GPCR signaling process:

    <p>Binding of ligand = Activates GPCR GDP exchange for GTP = Activates G-protein Splitting of G-protein = Initiates signaling cascade Termination of signal = Gα hydrolyzes GTP</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following terms with their roles in neurotransmitter action:

    <p>Synaptic cleft = Space where neurotransmitters exert effects Nerve terminals = Storage site for norepinephrine and epinephrine Adrenergic receptors = Target sites for norepinephrine and epinephrine Reuptake mechanism = Recycles neurotransmitters after action</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following receptor types with their associated G proteins:

    <p>α1 receptors = Gq/11 α2 receptors = Gi β1 receptors = Gs β2 receptors = Gs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the neurotransmitter with its specific release condition:

    <p>Norepinephrine = Released during sympathetic activation Epinephrine = Released by adrenal medulla during stress Dopamine = Precursor for norepinephrine synthesis cAMP = Generated following β receptor activation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the physiological effect with the adrenergic receptor class responsible for it:

    <p>Increased heart rate = β1 receptors Vasoconstriction = α1 receptors Inhibition of insulin release = α2 receptors Bronchodilation = β2 receptors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following receptors with their characteristics:

    <p>Nicotinic receptors = Short-lived excitation of ganglionic neurons Muscarinic receptors = Longer-lasting effects than nicotinic receptors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the divisions of the autonomic nervous system with their primary functions:

    <p>Sympathetic division = Fight or flight response Parasympathetic division = Lowering metabolic rate</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following neurotransmitter actions with their effects:

    <p>Acetylcholine (ACh) = Released by all parasympathetic neurons Norepinephrine (NE) = Involved in sympathetic division effects ACh = Short-lived responses in nicotinic receptors NE = Widespread impact in sympathetic division</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following anatomical characteristics with their respective divisions:

    <p>Sympathetic division = Long ganglionic neurons Parasympathetic division = Short ganglionic neurons</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following descriptions with the correct autonomic nervous system components:

    <p>Dual innervation = Most organs receive input from both divisions Preganglionic neurons = ACh is the neurotransmitter released Ganglionic neurons = Short in parasympathetic division Postganglionic fibers = Long in sympathetic division</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the parasympathetic division processes with their outcomes:

    <p>Parasympathetic stimulation = ACh release Muscarinic receptor activation = Response can be excitatory or inhibitory Nicotinic receptor activation = Excitation of ganglionic neurons Longer-lasting effects = Muscarinic receptors' primary attribute</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the neurotransmitter interactions with their respective divisions of the ANS:

    <p>ACh = Short responses in nicotinic receptors Norepinephrine = Primary in sympathetic postganglionic neurons Epinephrine = Acts alongside norepinephrine in sympathetic responses</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following statements with their relevance to the autonomic nervous system (ANS):

    <p>SNS = Voluntary control of skeletal muscles ANS = Unconscious homeostatic regulation Sympathetic division = Utilizes energy resources Parasympathetic division = Maintains metabolic homeostasis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the divisions of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) with their primary functions:

    <p>Sympathetic division = Increases heart rate and alertness Parasympathetic division = Facilitates digestive processes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following components of the nervous system with their descriptions:

    <p>CNS = Central processing unit of the nervous system PNS = All nerves outside the central nervous system SNS = Controls voluntary movements ANS = Regulates involuntary body functions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the neurotransmitters with their respective functions or pathways:

    <p>Norepinephrine = Primary neurotransmitter at specific targets in sympathetic division Acetylcholine = Released at cholinergic synapses in sympathetic pathways Dopamine = Intermediate in the synthesis of norepinephrine Epinephrine = Released from the adrenal medulla during stress response</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the receptors with their characteristics:

    <p>α receptors = G protein-coupled receptors that activate intracellular pathways β receptors = Involved in cardiovascular and metabolic responses Adrenergic receptors = Activated by norepinephrine and epinephrine Cholinergic receptors = Involved in excitatory responses in sympathetic transmission</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following types of neurotransmitters with their roles in the autonomic nervous system:

    <p>Acetylcholine = Primary neurotransmitter of the parasympathetic division Norepinephrine = Primary neurotransmitter of the sympathetic division Epinephrine = Hormone that enhances sympathetic responses Dopamine = Precursor in the synthesis of norepinephrine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following divisions of the autonomic nervous system with their functions:

    <p>Sympathetic division = Prepares the body for 'fight or flight' Parasympathetic division = Promotes 'rest and digest' functions Somatic nervous system = Enables conscious control of skeletal muscles Autonomic nervous system = Regulates involuntary processes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the terms with their definitions:

    <p>Sympathetic varicosities = Sites of neurotransmitter release along sympathetic fibers Ganglionic neurons = Neurons that respond to neurotransmitters in autonomic pathways Tyrosine hydroxylase = Enzyme that converts tyrosine to dopamine G protein-coupled receptors = Receptors that mediate the effects of catecholamines</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following effects with the appropriate division of the autonomic nervous system:

    <p>Sympathetic division = Dilates pupils Parasympathetic division = Constricts bronchi in the lungs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the processes with their associated actions during sympathetic activation:

    <p>Increased air flow = Bronchodilation Redirected blood flow = Increased oxygen delivery to muscles Increased glucose release = Enhanced energy availability Increased heart rate = Improved blood circulation during stress</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the physiological effects with their appropriate nervous system division:

    <p>Sympathetic division = Inhibits digestive secretions Parasympathetic division = Stimulates salivation and digestion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following parts of the nervous system with their main components:

    <p>CNS = Brain and spinal cord PNS = Nerves branching from the CNS SNS = Sensory receptors and skeletal muscles ANS = Glands and smooth muscles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following characteristics with the respective divisions of the autonomic nervous system:

    <p>Sympathetic division = Uses norepinephrine at target organs Parasympathetic division = Uses acetylcholine at ganglia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the structures with their roles in neurotransmitter function:

    <p>Neurotransmitter vesicles = Store neurotransmitters in synaptic terminals Adrenal medulla = Site of epinephrine synthesis and release Sympathetic nerve fibers = Initiate the 'fight or flight' response Postganglionic neurons = Transmit signals to target organs in the sympathetic system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following types of nerve control with their definitions:

    <p>Somatic control = Voluntary movement and sensory information Autonomic control = Involuntary regulation of internal organs Central nervous system = Integration of sensory and motor commands Peripheral nervous system = Connection of the CNS to the rest of the body</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the effects with the corresponding mechanism within the sympathetic system:

    <p>Vasoconstriction = Increased blood pressure during stress Increased metabolic rate = Enhanced energy expenditure Inhibition of non-essential functions = Redirects energy to vital systems Release of glucose = Improves immediate energy supply for muscles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following neurotransmitter roles with the appropriate physiological processes:

    <p>Acetylcholine = Slows heart rate Norepinephrine = Increases alertness and focus Epinephrine = Prepares the body for action Dopamine = Involved in mood and reward pathways</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Nervous System Organization

    • The nervous system is a complex network of cells transmitting information throughout the body, controlling and coordinating bodily functions.
    • It's divided into the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).
    • The CNS comprises the brain (responsible for thoughts, emotions, and behaviors) and the spinal cord (a pathway for nerve signals between the brain and the body).
    • The PNS encompasses all nerves outside the CNS, connecting it to muscles, organs, and sensory receptors. It's further subdivided into the somatic and autonomic nervous systems.

    Somatic vs. Autonomic Nervous Systems

    • The Somatic Nervous System (SNS) controls voluntary movements and carries sensory information from receptors to the CNS.
    • The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) regulates involuntary functions like heart rate, digestion, and glandular activity. It includes the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, often functioning in opposition to maintain homeostasis.

    Autonomic Nervous System Divisions

    • The sympathetic division is activated during stress, danger, or excitement ("fight or flight"). It increases heart rate, dilates airways, redirects blood flow to muscles, and releases adrenaline.
    • The parasympathetic division promotes rest, relaxation, and normal bodily functions ("rest and digest").
    • Both divisions can work independently or together, sometimes controlling different stages of a complex process.

    Sympathetic Nervous System Neurotransmission

    • Sympathetic pre-ganglionic neurons release acetylcholine (ACh) at synapses with ganglionic neurons (cholinergic synapses, always excitatory).
    • Postganglionic neurons release norepinephrine (noradrenaline) as the primary neurotransmitter at target sites.
    • Norepinephrine and epinephrine are synthesized from tyrosine, stored in vesicles, and released upon sympathetic stimulation. They are then recycled or degraded by enzymes like MAO and COMT.
    • Sympathetic varicosities, along sympathetic nerve fibers, are sites of neurotransmitter release, enabling widespread communication.

    Adrenergic Receptors and G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs)

    • Norepinephrine and epinephrine activate adrenergic receptors (α and β receptors, which are GPCRs).
    • α1 receptors (most common) activate Gq/11 proteins, leading to PLC activation, IP3 and DAG production, calcium release, and an excitatory effect.
    • α2 receptors activate Gi, inhibiting adenylyl cyclase.
    • β1-3 receptors activate Gs, activating adenylyl cyclase to generate cAMP for PKA activation.

    Parasympathetic Nervous System Neurotransmission

    • All parasympathetic neurons release ACh.
    • Effects vary depending on receptor type (nicotinic or muscarinic).
    • Nicotinic receptors open chemically gated channels, causing short-lived excitation.
    • Muscarinic receptors (GPCRs) produce longer-lasting effects, which can be excitatory or inhibitory.

    Anatomical Differences Between ANS Divisions

    • The sympathetic division has a widespread impact.
    • The parasympathetic division innervates visceral structures more specifically.
    • Most organs receive dual innervation from both divisions.

    Summary of Nervous System Function

    • SNS manages voluntary muscle and organ movement.
    • ANS makes unconscious homeostatic adjustments.
    • The sympathetic division uses energy and increases metabolic rates (short preganglionic neurons using ACh, long ganglionic neurons using NE/E).
    • The parasympathetic division conserves energy and lowers metabolic rate (long preganglionic neurons using ACh, short ganglionic neurons using ACh).

    Nervous System Organization

    • The nervous system is a complex network of cells transmitting information throughout the body, controlling and coordinating bodily functions.
    • It's divided into the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
    • The CNS comprises the brain (responsible for thoughts, emotions, and behaviors) and the spinal cord (a pathway for nerve signals between the brain and the body).
    • The PNS includes all nerves outside the CNS, connecting it to muscles, organs, and sensory receptors. It's further divided into the somatic nervous system (SNS) and the autonomic nervous system (ANS).

    Somatic vs. Autonomic Nervous Systems

    • The SNS controls voluntary movements and carries sensory information to the CNS.
    • The ANS regulates involuntary functions (heart rate, digestion, breathing, glandular activity). It includes the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, often working in opposition to maintain homeostasis.

    Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) Divisions

    • Sympathetic Division: Activated during stress, danger, or excitement ("fight or flight"). It increases heart rate, dilates airways, redirects blood flow to muscles, and releases adrenaline.
    • Parasympathetic Division: Promotes rest, relaxation, and normal bodily functions ("rest and digest").

    Sympathetic Pathways and Neurotransmitters

    • Sympathetic pre-ganglionic neurons release acetylcholine (ACh) at synapses with ganglionic neurons (cholinergic synapses, always excitatory).
    • Postganglionic neurons release norepinephrine (noradrenaline) as the primary neurotransmitter at the target.
    • Sympathetic varicosities, specialized structures along sympathetic nerve fibers, are sites of neurotransmitter release, enabling widespread communication.

    Norepinephrine and Epinephrine Synthesis and Release

    • Norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (E) are synthesized from tyrosine in a series of enzymatic reactions in the adrenal medulla and sympathetic nerve terminals.
    • NE and E activate adrenergic receptors (α and β receptors, which are G protein-coupled receptors – GPCRs).

    Adrenergic Receptors and G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs)

    • GPCRs are cell surface receptors crucial in signal transduction. Inactivation involves GDP binding to the α subunit of the G-protein; activation involves GDP exchange for GTP, splitting the G-protein, and activation of effector proteins.
    • Alpha-adrenergic receptors (α): α1 receptors are the most common and involve the Gq/11 family of G proteins, leading to phospholipase C activation, IP3 and DAG production, intracellular calcium release, and generally excitatory effects. α2 receptors activate Gi, inhibiting adenylyl cyclase.
    • Beta receptors (β): β1-3 receptors activate Gs, activating adenylyl cyclase to generate cAMP for PKA activation.

    Parasympathetic Pathways and Neurotransmitters

    • All parasympathetic neurons release ACh. Effects vary based on receptor type (nicotinic or muscarinic) and second messengers.
    • Nicotinic receptors: Chemically gated channels producing short-lived excitation.
    • Muscarinic receptors: GPCRs producing longer-lasting effects (excitatory or inhibitory).

    Anatomical Differences between Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Divisions

    • Sympathetic: Widespread impact.
    • Parasympathetic: Innervates visceral structures.
    • Many organs receive dual innervation from both divisions.

    Summary of ANS Differences

    • The SNS is involved in voluntary movement; the ANS makes unconscious homeostatic adjustments.
    • The sympathetic division uses short preganglionic neurons (ACh) and long postganglionic neurons (NE/E) to increase metabolic rate and energy expenditure.
    • The parasympathetic division uses long preganglionic neurons (ACh) and short postganglionic neurons (ACh) to conserve energy and lower metabolic rate.

    Nervous System Organization

    • The nervous system is a complex network of cells transmitting information throughout the body, controlling and coordinating bodily functions.
    • It's divided into the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).
    • The CNS comprises the brain (responsible for thoughts, emotions, behaviors) and the spinal cord (a pathway for nerve signals between the brain and the body).
    • The PNS consists of all nerves branching from the CNS, connecting it to muscles, organs, and sensory receptors. The PNS is further divided into the somatic nervous system (SNS) and the autonomic nervous system (ANS).

    Somatic vs. Autonomic Nervous Systems

    • The SNS controls voluntary movements and carries sensory information to the CNS, enabling interaction with the environment.
    • The ANS regulates involuntary functions like heart rate, digestion, breathing, and glandular activity. It comprises the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions which often have opposing effects to maintain homeostasis.

    Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) Divisions

    • The sympathetic division ("fight or flight") is activated during stress, danger, or excitement. It increases heart rate, dilates airways, redirects blood flow to muscles, and releases adrenaline, stimulating metabolism and alertness.
    • The parasympathetic division ("rest and digest") promotes activities during rest and relaxation, conserving energy and lowering metabolic rate. Both divisions can act independently or together in complex processes.

    Sympathetic Nervous System Neurotransmission

    • Sympathetic preganglionic neurons release acetylcholine (ACh) at synapses with ganglionic neurons (cholinergic synapses, always excitatory).
    • Postganglionic neurons release norepinephrine (noradrenaline) as the primary neurotransmitter at target cells.
    • Norepinephrine and epinephrine are synthesized from tyrosine.
    • Sympathetic varicosities, along sympathetic nerve fibers, are sites of neurotransmitter release, enabling widespread communication with target cells.

    Adrenergic Receptors and G-protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs)

    • Norepinephrine and epinephrine activate adrenergic receptors (α and β receptors), which are GPCRs.
    • The α1 receptor (most common) activates Gq/11 proteins, leading to the release of intracellular calcium and an excitatory effect.
    • The α2 receptor activates Gi, inhibiting adenylyl cyclase.
    • β1-3 receptors activate Gs, activating adenylyl cyclase and generating cAMP for PKA activation, leading to different effects on the target cells.

    Parasympathetic Nervous System Neurotransmission

    • All parasympathetic neurons release ACh.
    • Effects vary depending on receptor type (nicotinic or muscarinic).
    • Nicotinic receptors open chemically gated channels, causing short-lived excitation.
    • Muscarinic receptors are GPCRs, producing longer-lasting effects (excitatory or inhibitory).

    Anatomical Differences and Summary

    • The sympathetic division has widespread impact, while parasympathetic innervation is more focused on visceral structures.
    • Most organs receive dual innervation (both sympathetic and parasympathetic).
    • The SNS controls voluntary actions, while the ANS makes unconscious homeostatic adjustments. The sympathetic division uses energy and increases metabolic rate whereas the parasympathetic division conserves energy and lowers metabolic rate.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Related Documents

    Description

    Test your knowledge about the organization of the nervous system, including the distinctions between the Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). Explore the roles of the Somatic and Autonomic Nervous Systems. This quiz covers essential functions that regulate both voluntary and involuntary actions.

    More Like This

    Nervous System Organization: CNS and PNS
    12 questions
    Nervous System: CNS and PNS
    24 questions

    Nervous System: CNS and PNS

    InsightfulNoseFlute avatar
    InsightfulNoseFlute
    Nervous System Overview
    9 questions

    Nervous System Overview

    CourtlyOsmium707 avatar
    CourtlyOsmium707
    Nervous System Overview: CNS vs PNS
    16 questions
    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Browser