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A postganglionic neuron is a nerve fiber that extends from an autonomic ganglion to an organ or tissue. It is the second neuron in a two-neuron pathway of the autonomic nervous system, with the first being the preganglionic neuron.12

The parasympathetic nervous system, which regulates visceral organs, uses both preganglionic and postganglionic neurons. These neurons secrete acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter. Parasympathetic ganglia are typically located close to or within the organs they innervate. In contrast, sympathetic ganglia are found at more distant sites.32

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