Question

Distinguish between monsynaptic and poly synaptic reflexes and between ipsilateral and contralateral reflex responses.

Answer 1

Answer:

Q)

Monosynaptic involves only one synapse in spinal cord gray matter, between afferent and efferent neurons. No interneuron.

Eg : peripheral muscle reflexes such as, knee jerk is monosynaptic reflex.

In monosynaptic reflex only one sensory neuron and one motor neuron is involved.

In polysynaptic reflex one or more interneurons connect affarent sensory and efferent motor neurons. All but most simple reflexes are polysynaptic.

Eg; withdrawal reflex to pain stimuli.

Q)

Ipsilateral vs contralateral reflex response.

In contralateral reflex, sensory and effector neurons are on opposite side.

In ipsilateral reflex both sensory and effector neurons are on same side of the body.

Eg of contralateral reflex is, when a man steps on a needle and pulls his leg, contralateral leg bears weight of whole body.

Example of ipsilateral reflex is, the man pulling off the leg stepped on the nail.