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Edexcel IAL Biology 8.2 Receptors, neurones and effectors

Name the receptor and stimulus, trace afferent and efferent signalling through the relevant circuit and state how smooth muscle or another effector changes activity.

Syllabus
First assessment 2019
Course
Biology YBI11
Level
A2

Exam points

  • Interpret receptor firing data to compare nociceptor and thermoreceptor responses.
  • Trace a gut reflex from stretch detection to coordinated smooth-muscle contraction.

8.2—Nervous system control of effectors question 1

Motility is produced in the ENS through a reflex circuit involving the circular and longitudinal muscles. Nicotinic synapses between interneurons mediate the reflex circuits. When the circuit activates by the presence of a bolus, excitatory neurons in the circular muscle and inhibitory neurons in the longitudinal muscle fire producing a narrow section of bowel proximal to the bolus; this is known as the propulsive segment. Simultaneously, excitatory neurons in the longitudinal muscle and inhibitory neurons in the circular muscle fire producing the "receiving segment" of the bowel in which the bolus will continue. This process repeats with each subsequent section of the bowel.

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