Nervous ganglia

Nervous Ganglia

A ganglion is a structure containing a number of neurons, often forming a swelling on a nerve fiber. They are found in the peripheral nervous system and are responsible for transmitting signals from the central nervous system to the rest of the body.

Structure

Nervous ganglia are essentially clusters of neuronal cell bodies outside the central nervous system. They are enveloped by a layer of connective tissue and are rich in lipids and proteins.

Function

The primary function of nervous ganglia is to transmit nerve impulses between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. They play a crucial role in the autonomic nervous system, controlling involuntary actions such as heart rate, digestion, and salivation.

Types of Ganglia

There are two main types of ganglia in the human body: spinal ganglia and autonomic ganglia. Spinal ganglia, also known as dorsal root ganglia, contain the cell bodies of sensory neurons. Autonomic ganglia, on the other hand, contain the cell bodies of autonomic neurons and are further divided into sympathetic and parasympathetic ganglia.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities or damage to the nervous ganglia can lead to a variety of medical conditions, including neuropathic pain, neuralgia, and ganglion cysts. Treatment options vary depending on the specific condition and can range from medication to surgery.

See Also

• Neuron
• Nerve
• Peripheral Nervous System
• Central Nervous System
• Autonomic Nervous System