Preganglionaarsete

Preganglionaarsete is a term used in neurobiology to describe neurons whose axons extend from the central nervous system (CNS) to a ganglion. These neurons are part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiration. Preganglionic neurons originate in the brainstem or spinal cord and synapse with postganglionic neurons in autonomic ganglia. These ganglia are clusters of nerve cell bodies located outside the CNS. The neurotransmitter released by preganglionic neurons is typically acetylcholine, which binds to nicotinic receptors on the postganglionic neurons. The autonomic nervous system is further divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, both of which utilize preganglionic neurons. In the sympathetic division, preganglionic neurons are generally shorter and originate from the thoracic and lumbar regions of the spinal cord. They synapse in ganglia that run parallel to the spinal cord. In the parasympathetic division, preganglionic neurons are typically longer and originate from the brainstem and sacral regions of the spinal cord, with their ganglia located closer to or within the target organs. Understanding the role of preganglionic neurons is crucial for comprehending the regulation of various physiological processes and the mechanisms underlying autonomic dysfunction.