Acetylcholinesterase

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-000259",
  "term": "Acetylcholinesterase",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "1. An enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of acetylcholine to choline and acetate. In the CNS, this enzyme plays a role in the function of peripheral neuromuscular junctions. EC 3.1.1.7.\n\n2. An enzyme that occurs especially in some nerve endings and in the blood and promotes the breakdown of acetylcholine. Nerve agents inhibit the action of this enzyme.\n\n3. Acetylcholinesterase is an enzyme that degrades the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain and other tissues of the body. Acetylcholine is a chemical substance that sends signals between nerve cells (called neurotransmitters). Neurotransmitters are secreted by neurons (nerve cells) into the space between neurons called the synapse. Acetylcholine is a primary neurotransmitter in the brain, and is associated with memory and cognition.\n\n4. An enzyme that degrades the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain and other tissues of the body. Acetylcholine is a chemical substance that sends signals between nerve cells (called neurotransmission). Neurotransmitters are secreted by neurons (nerve cells) into the space between neurons called the synapse. Acetylcholine is a primary neurotransmitter in the brain, and is associated with memory and cognition. When acetylcholinesterase breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, the signal between the nerve cells is effectively terminated. Nerve agents are organophosphate-based chemical agents that inhibit the action of the acetylcholinesterase. The result is a buildup of acetylcholine in the neural synapse causing a massive, uncontrolled neurotransmission of nerve signals leading to uncontrolled muscle movements, convulsions, and eventual death. An acetylcholinesterase test may be used to measure potential nerve agent exposures in workers.",
  "abbreviation": "AChE",
  "references": [
    "NLM Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)",
    "CDC The Emergency Response Safey and Health Database Glossary",
    "EPA Emergency Responder Health and Safety Manual - Chapter 3: Medical Surveillance Program",
    "EPA Emergency Responder Health and Safety Manual - Chapter 9: Chemical and Biological Agents"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/acetylcholinesterase/"
}