Question

multiple choice 2 points
the neurotransmitter(s) associated with autonomic ganglia is(are)
acetylcholine (ach)
acetylcholine (ach) and norepinephrine (ne)
dopamine
dopamine and norepinephrine (ne)
norepinephrine (ne)

Explanation:

Identify the anatomical site

The question asks for the neurotransmitter(s) associated with autonomic ganglia.

Analyze neurotransmission at autonomic ganglia

Using the Autonomic Nervous System and Cholinergic Synaptic Transmission knowledge points

• All preganglionic neurons of the autonomic nervous system (both sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions) release acetylcholine (ACh).
• These preganglionic fibers synapse onto postganglionic neurons within the autonomic ganglia.
• The receptors on the cell bodies of these postganglionic neurons are nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
• Therefore, acetylcholine (ACh) is the sole neurotransmitter released at the synapses within autonomic ganglia.

Evaluate the given options

• acetylcholine (ACh): Correct, as it is the neurotransmitter used at all autonomic ganglionic synapses.
• acetylcholine (ACh) and norepinephrine (NE): Incorrect. NE is released by most sympathetic postganglionic terminals at target organs, not within the ganglia.
• dopamine: Incorrect. Dopamine is not the primary neurotransmitter of autonomic ganglia.
• dopamine and norepinephrine (NE): Incorrect.
• norepinephrine (NE): Incorrect.

Answer:

• acetylcholine (ACH) (Correct answer)
• acetylcholine (ACH) and norepinephrine (NE)
• dopamine
• dopamine and norepinephrine (NE)
• norepinephrine (NE)