Autonomic nervous system
The autonomic nervous system coordinates cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive functions .The graphic shows an overview of the effects of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system.
Preganglionic neurons from the thoracic and lumbar segments form the sympathetic division (fight or flight system). Post-ganglionic sympathetic actions in end organs are mediated via noradrenaline acting on adrenergic receptors (with the single exception of sweat glands).
Preganglionic neurons from the brain and sacral segments form the parasympathetic division (rest and repose system). Post-ganglionic parasympathetic actions in end organs are mediated via acetylcholine acting on muscarinic receptors.
All preganglionic transmission is mediated via acetylcholine acting on nicotinic receptors.
Alzheimer's disease is characterized by a shortage of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft, or a shortage of acetylcholine neurons. Which of the following drug mechanisms is a potentially useful medicine against Alzheimer's disease?
Extra info: Certain postsynaptic nicotinic agonists which selectively activate α7-subtypes of nicotine receptors are in development for Alzheimer’s disease.