Relate each of the following terms or phrases to either the...

Relate each of the following terms or phrases to either the sympathetic (S) or parasympathetic (P) division of the autonomic nervous system: __________(1) short preganglionic, long postganglionic fibers __________(2) intramural ganglia __________(3) craniosacral part __________(4) adrenergic fibers __________(5) cervical ganglia __________(6) otic and ciliary ganglia __________(7) generally short-duration action __________(8) increases heart rate and blood pressure __________(9) increases gastric motility and secretion of lacrimal, salivary, and digestive juices __________(10) innervates blood vessels __________(11) most active when you are relaxing in a hammock __________(12) active when you are running in the Boston Marathon

Relate each of the following terms or phrases to either the sympathetic (S) or parasympathetic (P) division of the autonomic nervous system:
__________(1) short preganglionic, long postganglionic fibers
__________(2) intramural ganglia
__________(3) craniosacral part
__________(4) adrenergic fibers
__________(5) cervical ganglia
__________(6) otic and ciliary ganglia
__________(7) generally short-duration action
__________(8) increases heart rate and blood pressure
__________(9) increases gastric motility and secretion of lacrimal, salivary, and digestive juices
__________(10) innervates blood vessels
__________(11) most active when you are relaxing in a hammock
__________(12) active when you are running in the Boston Marathon

Key Concepts

Neurotransmitter Systems

The two divisions of the ANS can also be distinguished by their neurotransmitter profiles. The sympathetic division predominately uses norepinephrine as a neurotransmitter, leading to adrenergic transmission that facilitates responses like increased heart rate and vasoconstriction. The parasympathetic division, on the other hand, mainly utilizes acetylcholine for both preganglionic and postganglionic transmission, contributing to effects such as enhanced digestive secretions and reduced heart rate.

Functional Effects and Response Duration

Functionally, the two divisions of the ANS are associated with distinct physiological responses and temporal profiles. The sympathetic system triggers responses that are sustained and geared towards immediate action, such as during strenuous activities, thereby increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and vascular tone. In contrast, the parasympathetic system produces generally short-duration responses that are crucial for processes like digestion, secretion, and maintaining a state of rest and regeneration.

Ganglia Location and Types

Ganglia are clusters of neuronal cell bodies where the first synapse occurs in the ANS. In the parasympathetic system, intramural ganglia are found embedded within the walls of the target organs, ensuring precise local control. In the sympathetic system, ganglia such as the cervical ganglia (located near the spinal column) serve as relay stations for nerve signals, reflecting the wider and systemic distribution of sympathetic innervation.

Autonomic Nervous System Divisions

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems, each governing involuntary bodily functions in ways that often oppose each other. The sympathetic division, often referred to as the 'fight or flight' system, prepares the body for stressful situations by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and diverting blood flow to muscles. In contrast, the parasympathetic division, known as the 'rest and digest' system, promotes relaxation and recovery by enhancing functions such as digestion and glandular secretions.

Preganglionic and Postganglionic Fibers

One key anatomical distinction in the ANS is the relative lengths of preganglionic and postganglionic fibers. In the parasympathetic division, the preganglionic fibers are long and extend nearly to the target organ, while the postganglionic fibers are very short and located close to or within the target tissue. Conversely, in the sympathetic division, the preganglionic fibers are short and the postganglionic fibers are long, which allows for a broader and more diffusely distributed response.

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