acetylcholinesterase

(noun)

An enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

Related Terms

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Examples of acetylcholinesterase in the following topics:

  • Cholinergic Neurons and Receptors

    • The enzyme acetylcholinesterase converts acetylcholine into the inactive metabolites choline and acetate.
    • Certain neurotoxins work by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, leading to excess acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction.
  • Agonists, Antagonists, and Drugs

    • For example, by affecting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase the receptor ligand is degraded.
    • Most indirect-acting ACh receptor agonists work by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase.
  • Types of Neurotransmitters by Function

    • Once released, acetylcholine binds to post-synaptic receptors and is degraded by acetylcholinesterase.
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