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

Previous problemNext problem

Struggling with Anatomy & Physiology?

Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video

Multiple Choice

What is the effect of nitric oxide on systemic arterioles?

Vasoconstriction

Increased heart rate

Vasodilation

No effect

Previous problemNext problem

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of nitric oxide (NO) in the cardiovascular system: Nitric oxide is a signaling molecule produced by endothelial cells lining blood vessels. It plays a critical role in regulating vascular tone and blood flow.

Learn the mechanism of action of nitric oxide: NO activates the enzyme guanylate cyclase in smooth muscle cells of blood vessels. This leads to an increase in cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels, which causes relaxation of the smooth muscle.

Connect the relaxation of smooth muscle to vasodilation: When the smooth muscle in systemic arterioles relaxes, the diameter of the blood vessels increases, leading to vasodilation. This reduces vascular resistance and improves blood flow.

Rule out other options: Vasoconstriction is the opposite effect and occurs when smooth muscle contracts, which nitric oxide does not promote. Increased heart rate is unrelated to the direct action of nitric oxide on arterioles. 'No effect' is incorrect because nitric oxide has a significant impact on vascular tone.

Conclude that the correct answer is vasodilation: Nitric oxide causes systemic arterioles to dilate, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure.