Which of the following is true for preganglionic neurons in the autonomic nervous system?

• A. They release acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter.
• B. They are located in the peripheral nervous system.
• C. They directly innervate target organs.
• D. They have long axons in the sympathetic division.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of preganglionic neurons in the autonomic nervous system (ANS). These neurons are the first in the two-neuron chain of the ANS, which includes the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.
2. Recognize that preganglionic neurons release neurotransmitters to communicate with postganglionic neurons. In both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, preganglionic neurons release acetylcholine (ACh) as their neurotransmitter.
3. Identify the location of preganglionic neurons. They are located in the central nervous system (CNS), specifically in the brainstem or spinal cord, not in the peripheral nervous system.
4. Understand that preganglionic neurons do not directly innervate target organs. Instead, they synapse with postganglionic neurons, which then innervate the target organs.
5. Differentiate between the axon lengths in the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. In the sympathetic division, preganglionic neurons typically have short axons, while in the parasympathetic division, they have long axons.