
The neurons from the CNS to the synapse in the ganglion are the preganglionic neurons and those from the ganglia to the effector organs are the post-ganglionic neurons. In both divisions of the autonomic nervous system, there is a sequence of two neurons between the CNS and the effector organ which synapse in peripheral autonomic ganglia. In many cases, there is a dual supply from the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system. Visceral motor neurons innervate smooth muscle and secretory cells of the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems, the smooth and cardiac muscle of the cardiovascular system, the sweat glands and arrector pili muscles of the skin, and the muscles of the ciliary body and iris of the eyeball. The nerves involved in these activities are described as visceral sensory or visceral motor nerves because they control visceral function this distinguishes them from somatic sensory nerves from peripheral receptors and somatic motor nerves controlling voluntary function. Somatic and visceral functions are closely integrated at these higher levels think of the effect that emotional factors or somatic stimulation can have on heart rate, blood pressure, and gastrointestinal activity when we are nervous or are in pain. There are also centres in the cerebrum, notably the hypothalamus in the diencephalon. the cardiovascular and respiratory centres (the vital centres) in the reticular formation of the medulla controlling cardiac and respiratory activity. Much of the activity of these organs is controlled reflexly at the brainstem level, e.g. Most organs/tissue are innervated with sympathetic ganglia.The autonomic nervous system Chapter contentsĪ large part of the nervous system is dedicated to the control of the internal viscera and their functions. The SNS can also be thought of as the “E division” – embarrassment, emergency, exercise, and excitement. Sympathetic Nervous System – “fight or flight” Muscarinic receptors – GPCRs located on effector/end organs.Nicotinic receptors – ion channels located on ganglia.Waste elimination – defecation and urinationĪcetylcholine interacts with two types of receptors:.

Increased digestion – increased GI motility and secretions.Energy storage (glycogenesis, lipogenesis) – lower energy demand at rest.Decreased cardiac output (compared to sympathetic) – lower oxygen demand when at rest.Most organs/tissues are innervated with parasympathetic ganglia.ĮXCEPTIONS – most blood vessels and all sweat glands only have sympathetic innervation. The PNS can also be thought of as the “D” division – defecation, digestion, and diuresis. Parasympathetic Nervous System Parasympathetic Nervous System – “REST AND DIGEST” For the latter, acetylcholine and norepinephrine are released from postganglionic parasympathetic and sympathetic neurons, respectively. The ANS involves two steps of neurotransmission one at the ganglia (where acetylcholine serves as the neurotransmitter for both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems) and another at the innervated organs.

The SoNS involves one nerve ganglion that communicates with the skeletal muscle. Reminder: NAChR is an ion channel coupled receptor.


Once depolarized, the presynaptic neuron releases ACh, which goes on to stimulate the nicotinic receptor on the postsynaptic neuron. The image below is an example of cell-to-cell communication. Two important neurotransmitters are involved in the activity of the autonomic system: acetylcholine and noradrenaline, more commonly known as norepinephrine. Neurotransmitters, or chemical messengers, allow for cell-to-cell communication within the nervous system. Effector Organs – organs on which nerves from the autonomic and somatic nervous systems act.Somatic Nervous System – voluntary nervous system that controls via skeletal muscles.Autonomic System – involuntary nervous system composed of two divisions the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.Peripheral Nervous System – composed of nerves outside of the brain and spinal chord including the afferent division (sends messages to CNS) and efferent division (sends messages away from the CNS).Central Nervous System – composed of brain and spinal cord.
