Cholinergic Nervous System

Question 1

Parasympathetic Division

Answer 1

One of the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system responsible for maintaining homeostasis and conserving energy. It promotes “rest and digest” responses in the body.

Question 2

Acetylcholine (ACh)

Answer 2

The primary neurotransmitter of the parasympathetic nervous system. It mediates the transmission of nerve impulses across synapses.

Question 3

Cholinergic

Answer 3

Referring to nerves that release acetylcholine as their neurotransmitter, or drugs that mimic the action of acetylcholine.

Question 4

Muscarinic Receptors

Answer 4

G protein-coupled receptors found in various tissues innervated by the parasympathetic nervous system. Activation of muscarinic receptors by acetylcholine leads to various physiological responses.

Question 5

Nicotinic Receptors

Answer 5

Ionotropic receptors found at the neuromuscular junction and in ganglia of both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Activation of nicotinic receptors leads to depolarization of the postsynaptic membrane.

Question 6

Miosis

Answer 6

Constriction of the pupil of the eye, which is mediated by the parasympathetic nervous system. Parasympathomimetic drugs can induce miosis.

Question 7

Mydriasis

Answer 7

Dilation of the pupil of the eye, which is mediated by the sympathetic nervous system. Parasympatholytic drugs can induce mydriasis.

Question 8

Bradycardia

Answer 8

Abnormally slow heart rate, often resulting from increased parasympathetic activity. Parasympathomimetic drugs can cause bradycardia.

Question 9

Salivation

Answer 9

Secretion of saliva, which is stimulated by the parasympathetic nervous system. Parasympathomimetic drugs can increase salivation.

Question 10

Bronchoconstriction

Answer 10

Constriction of the bronchioles in the lungs, which is mediated by the parasympathetic nervous system. Parasympathomimetic drugs can induce bronchoconstriction.

Question 11

Urinary Retention

Answer 11

Inability to completely empty the bladder, often resulting from decreased detrusor muscle contraction. Parasympatholytic drugs can cause urinary retention.

Question 12

Ileus

Answer 12

Lack of normal bowel contractions leading to obstruction, often resulting from decreased gastrointestinal motility. Parasympatholytic drugs can cause ileus.