Autonomic ganglion
Autonomic Ganglion
Autonomic ganglion (pronunciation: aw-toh-NAH-mik GANG-lee-on) is a cluster of nerve cells found in the autonomic nervous system. These ganglia serve as relay stations where nerve impulses are transmitted from the central nervous system to the rest of the body.
Etymology
The term "autonomic ganglion" is derived from the Greek words "autonomos" meaning "self-governing" and "ganglion" meaning "knot". This refers to the self-regulating function of these ganglia in the body's involuntary nervous system.
Function
Autonomic ganglia play a crucial role in the functioning of the autonomic nervous system. They transmit signals from the brain and spinal cord to various organs and tissues in the body, regulating involuntary functions such as heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, pupillary response, and sexual arousal.
Types
There are two main types of autonomic ganglia: sympathetic ganglia and parasympathetic ganglia. Sympathetic ganglia are involved in the body's fight-or-flight response, while parasympathetic ganglia are involved in rest-and-digest or feed-and-breed activities.
Related Terms
- Autonomic nervous system: The part of the nervous system responsible for control of the bodily functions not consciously directed, such as breathing, the heartbeat, and digestive processes.
- Sympathetic ganglia: These are the ganglia of the sympathetic nervous system. They deliver information to the body about stress and impending danger, and are responsible for the fight-or-flight response.
- Parasympathetic ganglia: These are the ganglia of the parasympathetic nervous system. They are responsible for activities that occur when the body is at rest, including sexual arousal, salivation, lacrimation (tears), urination, digestion, and defecation.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Autonomic ganglion
- Wikipedia's article - Autonomic ganglion
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