Autonomic Nervous System Key Concepts

Question 1

The autonomic nervous system is involved in the unconscious regulation of what body functions?

Answer 1

cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, excretory and reproductive

Question 2

sympathetic division

Answer 2

‘fight or flight’
widespread effects and reaches both visceral and somatic structures

Question 3

What preganglionic neurons secrete acetylcholine which binds to nicotinic rectors on the body of postganglionic neurons?

Answer 3

ALL

Question 4

parasympathetic division

Answer 4

‘rest and digest’
effects are usually brief and restricted to specific sites + innervates only visceral structures

Question 5

Sympathetic Postganglionic neurons

Answer 5

secrete norepinephrine which binds to adrenergic receptors on the effector

Question 6

Parasympathetic postganglionic neurons

Answer 6

secrete acetylcholine which binds to muscarinic receptors on the effector

Question 7

How do the two autonomic pathways maintain the normal function of a tissue or organ?

Answer 7

By antagonistic control and tonic control mechanisms and variable tissue responses

Question 8

Hypothalamus

Answer 8

Behaves as both a nervous system and endocrine tissue and is key to maintaining normal physiological functions