Question

Which of the following pathways is involved with the sympathetic innervation to the heart?

A. Postganglionic sympathetic nerve pathway
B. Pelvic splanchnic nerve pathway
C. Spinal nerve pathway
D. Splanchnic nerve pathway
E. Vagus (CN X) nerve pathway

Answer 1

The sympathetic innervation to the heart is provided by the postganglionic sympathetic nerve pathway.

Step-by-step explanation:

The sympathetic innervation to the heart is provided by the postganglionic sympathetic nerve pathway. In this pathway, preganglionic neurons originate in the spinal cord and synapse with ganglionic neurons in a sympathetic ganglion.

The postganglionic fibers then project to the heart and release norepinephrine to bind to adrenergic receptors, causing changes in heart rate and function.