Cholinergic nerves are nerve fibers that release the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which plays a crucial role in transmitting signals in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. These nerves are involved in various functions, including muscle contraction and modulation of autonomic activities.
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Cholinergic nerves primarily release acetylcholine as their neurotransmitter.
They play a significant role in both the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
Cholinergic nerves are involved in stimulating muscle contractions and regulating autonomic functions such as heart rate and digestion.
These nerves can be found in both parasympathetic and sympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system but predominantly influence parasympathetic activities.
Medications that affect cholinergic nerve function include cholinergic agonists, which mimic acetylcholine, and anticholinergics, which block its action.
Review Questions
What neurotransmitter is released by cholinergic nerves?
In which parts of the nervous system are cholinergic nerves found?
How do cholinergic agonists and anticholinergics differ in their effects on cholinergic nerve function?
Related terms
Acetylcholine: A neurotransmitter released by cholinergic nerves that plays a key role in muscle activation and autonomic functions.
Parasympathetic Nervous System: The part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for rest-and-digest activities, heavily influenced by cholinergic nerves.
Anticholinergics: A class of drugs that inhibit the action of acetylcholine at cholinergic receptors.