Exogenous chemical

Definition

An exogenous chemical is a substance that originates outside the body and can affect the autonomic nervous system when introduced into the body. These chemicals include drugs, toxins, or pharmacological agents that can either mimic or block natural neurotransmitters within the autonomic nervous system.

Related terms

Neurotransmitter: A biochemical substance that transmits nerve impulses across a synapse between neurons, playing a crucial role in how the autonomic nervous system operates.

Autonomic Nervous System: The part of the nervous system responsible for controlling involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate.

Receptor: A protein molecule on a cell's surface or inside a cell that binds to specific molecules like neurotransmitters or drugs, triggering various physiological responses