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

Neurotransmitters of the ANS

Anatomy & Physiology

14. The Autonomic Nervous System

Neurotransmitters of the ANS

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Multiple Choice

Which neurotransmitter is primarily released by postganglionic neurons of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS)?

Serotonin

Acetylcholine

Dopamine

Norepinephrine

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Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Begin by understanding the structure of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response.

Step 2: Learn the pathway of neurotransmitter release in the SNS. Preganglionic neurons release acetylcholine (ACh), which binds to nicotinic receptors on postganglionic neurons.

Step 3: Postganglionic neurons of the SNS primarily release norepinephrine (NE) as their neurotransmitter. Norepinephrine acts on adrenergic receptors (alpha and beta) in target tissues to elicit physiological responses such as increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Step 4: Compare norepinephrine with other neurotransmitters listed in the question. Serotonin is primarily involved in mood regulation and is not a major neurotransmitter in the SNS. Acetylcholine is released by preganglionic neurons and postganglionic neurons of the parasympathetic nervous system, not the SNS. Dopamine is involved in reward and motor pathways but is not the primary neurotransmitter of the SNS.

Step 5: Conclude that norepinephrine is the correct answer based on its role as the primary neurotransmitter released by postganglionic neurons of the sympathetic nervous system.