Ganglionic saliva is a term used in medical and scientific fields to refer to the saliva produced by salivary glands located in ganglia. The phonetic transcription of this word is /ɡæŋɡliˈɒnɪk səˈlaɪvə/. The first syllable "gang-" is pronounced with a hard "g" sound, followed by the "l" sound in "lion" and the "ik" sound in "clinic". The stress is on the second syllable "li-". The second word "saliva" is pronounced as /səˈlaɪvə/ with the stress on the first syllable "sa-".
Ganglionic saliva is a term used in the field of physiology and neurobiology to refer to the specific type of saliva that is produced when the autonomic nervous system, particularly the parasympathetic division, is stimulated by ganglia. Saliva, also known as spit, is a clear fluid secreted by the salivary glands located in the mouth.
In the human body, the parasympathetic ganglia serve as relay stations that transmit signals from the central nervous system to the specific target organs including the salivary glands. When these ganglia are stimulated by the parasympathetic nervous system, a cascade of events occurs leading to the production and release of ganglionic saliva.
Ganglionic saliva is distinct from other types of saliva due to its composition and properties. It contains various enzymes, such as amylase, which helps in the initial digestion of starches, as well as mucus that moisturizes and lubricates the oral cavity during the process of mastication and swallowing. Additionally, ganglionic saliva has a slightly alkaline pH, aiding in the neutralization of oral acids and promoting dental health.
The production of ganglionic saliva is an involuntary process that is regulated by the autonomic nervous system. It is primarily triggered by stimuli such as the sight, smell, or taste of food, which activate the parasympathetic ganglia leading to increased secretion of saliva. This type of saliva plays a crucial role in the initial stages of digestion and maintaining the oral health of an individual.
Submaxillary s. obtained by direct irritation of the gland.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.