This learning module provides an essential framework for understanding the ANS by addressing these key facts, misconceptions and core concepts in physiology relevant to the ANS. In response to the aforementioned survey, the following learning objectives were outlined for this learning module:
describe the three divisions of the ANS, the organs innervated and the physiological processes regulated by the ANS;
explain the integrative nature of the ANS by giving examples of responses involving multiple organ systems;
recognize the importance of negative feedback loops in homeostasis;
describe the anatomical differences in nerve fiber type, preganglionic nerve length and postganglionic nerve length between sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems;
identify the subtypes, locations and actions of cholinergic and adrenergic receptors;
predict how pharmacological blockade of cholinergic and adrenergic receptors would alter physiological responses;
critique the overgeneralization of “fight or flight” and “rest and digest” as the main roles of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, respectively;
explain the difference between the three tissue innervation patterns of parasympathetic and sympathetic nerves: physiological antagonists (dual innervation/opposite effects), physiological agonists (dual innervation/complementary effects) and single innervation;
identify the stimulus, sensor, afferent neural pathway, central brain region, efferent neural pathway, effector organ(s), and corrective physiological responses; and
describe and integrate three physiological responses from different organ systems mediated by the autonomic nervous system that occur in response to both exercise and stress, respectively.