BIOS 252 Week 4 Case Study: ANS

BIOS 252 Week 4 Case Study: ANS

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Chamberlain University

BIOS-252 Anatomy & Physiology II with Lab

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Date

Autonomic Nervous System and Parasympathetic Response

Upon analyzing the signs and symptoms, it becomes clear that the autonomic nervous system (ANS) is experiencing significant upregulation in the parasympathetic nervous system. The three signs that indicate this heightened activity are sweating, bradycardia, and vomiting. These symptoms align with the parasympathetic system’s role in maintaining normal bodily functions, which, according to Guy-Evans (2021), aims to reduce activity and preserve equilibrium within the body. These symptoms are classic indicators of parasympathetic dominance, as they reflect the system’s regulatory effect on slowing the heart rate (bradycardia), increasing bodily secretions (sweating), and stimulating digestive activities (vomiting).

Muscarine and Muscarinic Receptors

Muscarine, a compound found in certain mushrooms, binds to muscarinic receptors in the autonomic nervous system, specifically in the parasympathetic branch. These receptors are typically activated by the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, as explained by Kudlak and Tadi (2021). This interaction is significant in explaining the physiological responses observed in parasympathetic activation, such as excessive sweating, bradycardia, and gastrointestinal disturbances.

In the case of the patients, it was initially perplexing that three out of four individuals were experiencing excessive sweating. However, upon further examination of their dietary intake, it was revealed that the M3 muscarinic receptors in their sweat glands were activated by acetylcholine, leading to excessive secretions. This aligns with the role of acetylcholine in stimulating bodily secretions, explaining the observed symptoms.

Anticholinergic Treatment

To manage this issue, atropine, an anticholinergic drug, is often used. Anticholinergics are medications that block the action of acetylcholine, which stops certain involuntary body functions and muscle movements (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 2012). According to Gal (2022), anticholinergic drugs work by inhibiting acetylcholine in the cholinergic system, which is why atropine is effective in this scenario. It prevents excessive secretions, such as sweating, and alleviates other symptoms related to parasympathetic overactivity.

References

• Gal, K. (2022). Anticholinergic drugs: What to know. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323514
• Guy-Evans, O. (2021). Peripheral Nervous System. Definition, Parts, and Function. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/peripheral-nervous-system.html

BIOS 252 Week 4 Case Study: ANS

• Kudlak, M., & Tadi, P. (2021). Physiology, Muscarinic Receptor. National Center for Biotechnology Information. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555909/
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2012). LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury. National Institutes of Health. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548287/

Table: Key Information on the Parasympathetic Nervous System