Autonomic nervous system

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The nervous system can be divided into central and peripheral nervous systems. The peripheral nervous system is further divided into the somatic and autonomic nervous systems. 

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is a functional division of the nervous system that controls involuntary actions of muscles, glands and internal organs (e.g. bowel movements). Together with endocrine glands, the ANS affects important body functions without the direct involvement of the cerebral cortex. In contrast, the somatic nervous system mediates voluntary responses of the body (e.g. skeletal muscle function) and it’s under the direct control of the cerebral cortex. 

The ANS can be divided according to its location (central and peripheral parts) and function. Functionally, the ANS is divided into sympathetic (SNS) and parasympathetic (PSNS) nervous systems. They usually work antagonistically in their target organs but in a well-integrated manner. It is the balance of the actions of both divisions that maintains a stable internal environment in the body.

This video tutorial will provide you with an overview of the autonomic nervous system.

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Take a closer look at the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems in the gallery below. 

Summary