The target synapse of the postganglionic neuron is mediated by adrenergic receptors and is activated by either noradrenaline (norepinephrine) or adrenaline (epinephrine).
In response to this stimulus postganglionic neurons with two important exceptions release norepinephrine, which activates adrenergic receptors on the peripheral target tissues.
They play several roles, including acting as the main end-receptor stimulated by acetylcholine released from postganglionic fibers in the parasympathetic nervous system.
By adding a large dose of nicotine, the ganglion (site of relay between pre- and postganglionic fibers) is blocked.
The completion of the reflex circuit by vagus efferents leads to the stimulation of postganglionic muscarinic nerves.
Sympathetic postganglionic neurons usually secrete norepinephrine and are named sympathetic adrenergic neurons.
However, the ciliary ganglion is not simply a relay station connecting "preganglionic" to "postganglionic" nerve fibers.
Here the fibers synapse and postganglionic fibers join the fibers of the maxillary nerve, which travels through the inferior orbital fissure.
