Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes a nerve cell that is specially designed for communication in the body?
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45. Nervous System
Neurons and Action Potentials
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Which of the following types of neurons primarily secrete acetylcholine as their neurotransmitter?
A
Sympathetic postganglionic neurons
B
Motor neurons of the somatic nervous system
C
Sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglia
D
Interneurons in the spinal cord that release GABA
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of acetylcholine (ACh): Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in transmitting signals in the nervous system. It is commonly associated with motor neurons in the somatic nervous system, which control voluntary muscle movements.
Analyze the options: Review the types of neurons provided in the question and their typical neurotransmitters. For example, sympathetic postganglionic neurons primarily release norepinephrine, not acetylcholine.
Focus on motor neurons of the somatic nervous system: These neurons are responsible for transmitting signals from the central nervous system to skeletal muscles, and they primarily use acetylcholine as their neurotransmitter.
Eliminate incorrect options: Sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglia are involved in transmitting sensory information to the central nervous system and do not primarily secrete acetylcholine. Similarly, interneurons in the spinal cord that release GABA use gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) as their neurotransmitter, not acetylcholine.
Conclude that motor neurons of the somatic nervous system are the correct answer: These neurons are the primary type that secrete acetylcholine to stimulate muscle contraction.
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