Autonomic Nervous System

• What are the two main divisions of the nervous system?

  Peripheral and central nervous systems
• What is the primary function of the autonomic nervous system?

  Controls involuntary body functions
• What are the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system?

  Sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems
• What does the sympathetic nervous system primarily prepare the body for?


  Fight or flight response
• What is the role of the parasympathetic nervous system?

  Rest and digest functions
• What is the anatomical structure that provides protection from traction in nerves?

  Epineurial coat
• What neurotransmitter is released by preganglionic neurons in the sympathetic nervous system?

  Acetylcholine
• What is the primary neurotransmitter released by postganglionic neurons in the sympathetic nervous system?

  Norepinephrine
• What physiological functions does the sympathetic nervous system control?

  Heart rate, blood flow, and digestion
• What is the function of the enteric nervous system?

  Governs gastrointestinal tract functions
• How does the autonomic nervous system maintain homeostasis?

  By balancing sympathetic and parasympathetic activity
• What are the main functions of the sympathetic nervous system?

  • Increases heart rate
  • Dilates pupils
  • Bronchodilation
  • Inhibits digestion
  • Inhibits saliva production
• What are the main functions of the parasympathetic nervous system?

  • Decreases heart rate
  • Constricts pupils
  • Stimulates digestion
  • Increases salivation
  • Promotes urination
• What is the anatomical origin of the sympathetic nervous system?

  Thoracolumbar region
• What is the anatomical origin of the parasympathetic nervous system?

  Craniosacral region
• What is the role of alpha-amylase in saliva?

  Breaks down carbohydrates for energy
• What physiological outputs can be measured to assess ANS activity?

  Sweat production, heart rate, breathing rate
• What happens to saliva production during sympathetic activation?

  It is inhibited, leading to dry mouth
• What is the significance of the adrenal gland in the sympathetic nervous system?

  Releases adrenaline during emergencies
• What is the role of the vagus nerve in the autonomic nervous system?

  It is a major component of the parasympathetic system
• What are the key differences between cholinergic and adrenergic signaling?

  • Cholinergic: Uses acetylcholine
  • Adrenergic: Uses norepinephrine
  • Cholinergic: Primarily in parasympathetic
  • Adrenergic: Primarily in sympathetic
• How do the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems interact to maintain homeostasis?

  They balance each other's effects on organs
• What is the function of visceral sensory neurons in the ANS?

  Monitor internal organ conditions
• What is the simplified pathway for visceral sensory input?

  Sensory neurons to spinothalamic tract
• What is the role of the hypothalamus in the ANS?

  Integrates sensory input and regulates autonomic functions
• What is the primary function of the enteric nervous system?

  Regulates gastrointestinal functions
• What is the significance of the sympathetic nervous system's effect on blood vessels?

  It redirects blood flow to essential organs
• What is the effect of sympathetic activation on the bladder?

  Inhibits bladder contraction
• What is the effect of parasympathetic activation on digestion?

  Increases gut motility and secretion
• What is the role of the adrenal medulla in the sympathetic nervous system?

  Releases adrenaline during stress responses
• What is the primary neurotransmitter involved in cholinergic signaling?

  Acetylcholine
• What is the primary neurotransmitter involved in adrenergic signaling?

  Norepinephrine
• What physiological changes occur when the sympathetic nervous system is activated?


  Increased heart rate and blood flow
• What physiological changes occur when the parasympathetic nervous system is activated?

  Decreased heart rate and increased digestion
• What is the role of the sympathetic nervous system in stress responses?

  Prepares the body for immediate action
• What is the role of the parasympathetic nervous system in recovery?

  Promotes relaxation and restoration of functions
• What is the significance of the autonomic nervous system in daily life?

  Regulates involuntary bodily functions
• How does the autonomic nervous system interact with the endocrine system?

  Modulates hormonal responses during stress
• What is the effect of sympathetic activation on the iris?

  Dilates pupils for distance vision
• What is the effect of parasympathetic activation on the iris?

  Constricts pupils for close vision