Molecular Classification
Other
Other Names
Autonomic ganglia, Autonomic nervous system ganglion, ANS ganglion, Sympathetic ganglion, Parasympathetic ganglion
Disease Roles
Dysautonomia (e.g., pure autonomic failure, autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy)Cardiovascular disease (via autonomic dysfunction)Gastrointestinal dysmotility, bladder dysfunction, orthostatic hypotension

Autonomic ganglion Overview

Autonomic ganglia are clusters of neuronal cell bodies located outside the central nervous system, primarily in the peripheral nervous system, serving as relay stations for autonomic nerve fibers. They mediate synaptic transmission from preganglionic to postganglionic neurons of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Their main neurotransmitter is acetylcholine, acting on postsynaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Autonomic ganglia are crucial in regulating a wide array of involuntary physiological functions (cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, urogenital), and dysfunction of these structures can result in severe autonomic disorders such as autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy and dysautonomia.

Mechanism of Action

Biological Functions

Relay synaptic transmission from preganglionic to postganglionic autonomic neurons
Regulate involuntary functions (e.g., heart rate, digestion, glandular activity, blood vessel tone)

Disease Associations

Dysautonomia (e.g., pure autonomic failure, autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy)
Cardiovascular disease (via autonomic dysfunction)
Gastrointestinal dysmotility, bladder dysfunction, orthostatic hypotension

Safety Considerations

No safety concerns listed