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Neurotransmitters of the ANS definitions Flashcards

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Neurotransmitters of the ANS definitions
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  • Acetylcholine

    A neurotransmitter released by all preganglionic fibers and parasympathetic postganglionic fibers in the ANS.
  • Norepinephrine

    A neurotransmitter primarily released by sympathetic postganglionic fibers, crucial for the fight or flight response.
  • Epinephrine

    Also known as adrenaline, released by some sympathetic postganglionic fibers and the adrenal medulla.
  • Cholinergic fibers

    Fibers that release acetylcholine, including all preganglionic fibers and parasympathetic postganglionic fibers.
  • Adrenergic fibers

    Fibers that release norepinephrine and epinephrine, primarily found in sympathetic postganglionic fibers.
  • Nicotinic receptors

    A subtype of cholinergic receptors found at all ANS synapses between pre and postganglionic fibers.
  • Muscarinic receptors

    Cholinergic receptors located at parasympathetic target organs and sympathetic sweat glands.
  • Adrenergic receptors

    Receptors that bind norepinephrine and epinephrine, found at sympathetic target organs.
  • Alpha receptors

    A subtype of adrenergic receptors, involved in various sympathetic responses.
  • Beta receptors

    Another subtype of adrenergic receptors, playing a role in sympathetic nervous system activities.
  • Preganglionic fibers

    Nerve fibers in the ANS that release acetylcholine at synapses with postganglionic fibers.
  • Postganglionic fibers

    Nerve fibers that release neurotransmitters at target organs, varying by ANS division.
  • Sympathetic division

    Part of the ANS that prepares the body for fight or flight, using norepinephrine and epinephrine.
  • Parasympathetic division

    Part of the ANS that conserves energy, using acetylcholine for both pre and postganglionic fibers.
  • Adrenal medulla

    A sympathetic structure in the adrenal gland that releases epinephrine and norepinephrine.