Ganglionic is a word used in anatomy to refer to structures or nerves that are part of a ganglion, a cluster of nerve cells. The correct spelling of this word is /ɡænˈɡliənɪk/, which can be broken down into four syllables. The first syllable is pronounced like "gan" with a hard "g" sound, followed by the "gli" sound in "glisten". The third syllable is pronounced like "on" with a soft "g" sound, and the final syllable ends with the "ik" sound in "clinic".
Ganglionic is an adjective that pertains to or relates to ganglia, which are clusters or groups of nerve cell bodies located outside the central nervous system. Ganglia are part of the peripheral nervous system and are involved in the transmission and processing of nerve signals.
In the context of anatomy and physiology, ganglionic typically refers to structures, processes, or functions that involve ganglia. For example, ganglionic transmission refers to the transmission of nerve signals between ganglia or from a ganglion to an effector organ, such as a muscle or gland.
Ganglionic can also describe medications or agents that affect or target ganglia. Ganglionic blockers, for instance, are drugs that inhibit the transmission of nerve signals in ganglia, often used as antihypertensive medications to lower blood pressure by reducing sympathetic activity.
Additionally, ganglionic may refer to the ganglion cells found in the retina of the eye. These specialized cells transmit visual information from the retina to the brain, playing a crucial role in vision.
Overall, the term ganglionic encompasses the various aspects associated with ganglia, including their structure, function, transmission, and involvement in physiological processes.
Relating to a ganglion in any sense.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Applied to collections of vesicular matter which are centres of nervous power to the fibres connected with them.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "ganglionic" has its roots in the Greek language. It comes from the Greek word "gánglion", meaning "knot" or "swelling", combined with the suffix "-ic", indicating "relating to" or "pertaining to".
In anatomy, ganglia are small masses or clusters of nerve cells, typically appearing as knots along nerve fibers. The term "ganglionic" is used to describe anything related to or associated with ganglia.