Differentiate between preganglionic neurons and postganglionic neurons????
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Dec 15, 2023
Preganglionic neurons and postganglionic neurons are two types of neurons that are part of the autonomic nervous system. Here are the main differences between them:
1. Location: Preganglionic neurons are located in the central nervous system (CNS), specifically in the brainstem or the spinal cord. Postganglionic neurons, on the other hand, are located outside the CNS, in ganglia (clusters of nerve cell bodies) that are closer to the target organs.
2. Length: Preganglionic neurons have relatively long axons that extend from the CNS to the ganglia. Postganglionic neurons have shorter axons that extend from the ganglia to the target organs.
3. Myelination: Preganglionic neurons are myelinated, meaning they have a protective covering called myelin sheath around their axons. This myelin sheath helps in faster conduction of nerve impulses. Postganglionic neurons, however, are mostly unmyelinated or have very thin myelin sheaths.
4. Neurotransmitter: Preganglionic neurons release the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) at their synapses with postganglionic neurons. Postganglionic neurons, depending on the division of the autonomic nervous system, release either ACh or norepinephrine (NE) as their main neurotransmitter at their synapses with target organs.
5. Function: Preganglionic neurons transmit signals from the CNS to the ganglia, where they synapse with postganglionic neurons. Postganglionic neurons then transmit signals from the ganglia to the target organs, such as smooth muscles, glands, and cardiac muscles. Preganglionic neurons are responsible for initiating the autonomic response, while postganglionic neurons carry out the specific actions required for that response.
In summary, preganglionic neurons are located in the CNS, have long myelinated axons, release acetylcholine, and transmit signals to ganglia. Postganglionic neurons are located outside the CNS, have shorter unmyelinated or thinly myelinated axons, release either acetylcholine or norepinephrine, and transmit signals from ganglia to target organs.