Ch. 16 The Autonomic Nervous System and Higher-Order Functions

Martini - Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology 12th Edition

Martini, Nath, Bartholomew12th EditionFundamentals of Anatomy and PhysiologyISBN: 9780137854011Not the one you use?Change textbook

Martini, Nath, Bartholomew 12th Edition

Ch. 16 The Autonomic Nervous System and Higher-Order Functions

Problem 16

Chapter 16, Problem 16

What two distinctive results are produced by the stimulation of sympathetic ganglionic neurons?

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the role of the sympathetic nervous system, which is part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, preparing the body for stressful or emergency situations.

Step 2: Recognize that sympathetic ganglionic neurons are postganglionic neurons that transmit signals from the sympathetic ganglia to target organs.

Step 3: Identify that stimulation of these neurons typically results in two main types of physiological effects: one related to the activation of effector organs (like increased heart rate or dilation of pupils) and another related to the release of neurotransmitters (such as norepinephrine) that mediate these effects.

Step 4: Note that the first distinctive result is the direct activation of target tissues leading to changes like increased cardiac output, bronchodilation, and decreased digestive activity.

Step 5: The second distinctive result is the release of neurotransmitters from the nerve endings, which bind to adrenergic receptors on target cells, amplifying and specifying the sympathetic response.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Sympathetic Nervous System

The sympathetic nervous system is part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the 'fight or flight' response. It prepares the body for stressful situations by increasing heart rate, dilating airways, and mobilizing energy stores.

Sympathetic Ganglionic Neurons

Sympathetic ganglionic neurons are postganglionic neurons located in sympathetic ganglia that transmit signals from preganglionic neurons to target organs. Their stimulation leads to the release of neurotransmitters that affect various tissues.

Physiological Effects of Sympathetic Stimulation

Stimulation of sympathetic ganglionic neurons produces two main results: activation of effector organs (like increased heart rate and pupil dilation) and release of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, which modulate target tissue responses.

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Related Practice

Textbook Question

The neurotransmitter at all synapses and neuromuscular or neuroglandular junctions in the parasympathetic division of the ANS is

(a) Epinephrine

(b) Norepinephrine

(d) Acetylcholine

Textbook Question

Which six plexuses in the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities innervate visceral organs, and what are the effects of sympathetic versus parasympathetic stimulation?

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Textbook Question

Dual innervation refers to situations in which

(a) Vital organs receive instructions from both sympathetic and parasympathetic fibers.

(b) The atria and ventricles of the heart receive autonomic stimulation from the same nerves.

(d) All of these are correct.

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Textbook Question

Which three collateral ganglia serve as origins for ganglionic neurons that innervate organs or tissues in the abdominopelvic region?

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Textbook Question

How does the emergence of sympathetic fibers from the spinal cord differ from the emergence of parasympathetic fibers?

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Textbook Question

Which four pairs of cranial nerves are associated with the cranial segment of the parasympathetic division of the ANS?

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