Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System

Anatomy & Physiology

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Introduction to the Autonomic Nervous System

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Multiple Choice

In the sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system, what are the swollen bead-like structures found along the terminal branches of axons called?

Synaptic boutons

Varicosities

Dendritic spines

Nodes of Ranvier

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the context: The sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response. It uses neurotransmitters to communicate with target tissues, and the structures involved in neurotransmitter release are key to this process.

Identify the anatomical structure in question: The problem refers to swollen bead-like structures found along the terminal branches of axons. These structures are specialized for neurotransmitter release.

Clarify the function of these structures: These bead-like structures, known as varicosities, contain vesicles filled with neurotransmitters. They release neurotransmitters into the extracellular space to affect nearby target cells, such as smooth muscle or glandular tissue.

Differentiate from other terms: Synaptic boutons are found at the ends of axons and are involved in neurotransmitter release at synapses. Dendritic spines are small protrusions on dendrites that receive synaptic input. Nodes of Ranvier are gaps in the myelin sheath of axons that facilitate rapid signal conduction. None of these terms describe the bead-like structures along axons in the sympathetic division.

Conclude the identification: The correct term for the swollen bead-like structures along the terminal branches of axons in the sympathetic division is 'varicosities.' These structures are essential for neurotransmitter release in the autonomic nervous system.