In: Anatomy and Physiology
Which of the following reflexes is most likely a short reflex?
A. inhibition of gut motility during stress
B. all of these
C. none of these
D. parasympathetic reflex of defecation
E. intrinsic reflex of defecation
Option E-Intrinsic Reflex of defeacation.
The short reflex involves the direct stimulation of a postganglionic fiber by the sensory neuron, whereas the long reflex involves integration in the spinal cord or brain. The difference between short and long reflexes is in the involvement of the CNS.
Intrinsic reflex of Defeacation is mediated entirely by ENS(Enteric nervous system).
Feces enters rectum----Rectal pressure increases---peristaltic waves in the descending colon,sigmoid and rectum---Relaxation of Internal anal sphincter (Inhibitory action of myenteric plexus)
This intrinsic Reflex is weak which is reinforced by an autonomic reflex (Parasympathetic /Extrinsic)that is transmitted in the spinal cord. The reflex is integrated via the defecation centre in the sacral spinal cord.
Hence Intrinsic reflex of defeacation is Short reflex.
But parasympathetic reflex of defeacation is Long reflex as it involves spinal cord
Similarly Inhibtion of Gut motility during stress is mediated through Brain,Hence it is also a long reflex