Definition

1. Noun:
   • A neurotransmitter that is a derivative of choline; released at the ends of nerve fibers in the somatic and parasympathetic nervous systems: Acetylcholine is a chemical substance that transmits signals across a synapse from one nerve cell (neuron) to another target cell, such as another neuron, a muscle fiber, or a gland cell. It is synthesized from choline and acetyl-CoA and is a primary neurotransmitter in both the peripheral and central nervous systems.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Acetylcholine is essential for muscle contraction.
  • The enzyme acetylcholinesterase breaks down acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft.
  • Drugs that block acetylcholine receptors can cause muscle paralysis.

Advanced Usage

• "Acetylcholine receptor": A protein on the surface of a cell that binds acetylcholine, initiating a cellular response.
  • Nicotinic and muscarinic are the two main types of acetylcholine receptors.
• "Acetylcholine release": The process by which acetylcholine is secreted from the presynaptic neuron into the synapse.
  • The stimulation of the nerve leads to acetylcholine release.
• "Cholinergic": Pertaining to, resembling, or releasing acetylcholine.
  • Cholinergic neurons use acetylcholine as their neurotransmitter.

Variants and Related Words

• Cholinergic (adj): Relating to or denoting nerve cells in which acetylcholine acts as a neurotransmitter.
• Acetylcholinesterase (n): The enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, terminating its action.
• Choline (n): A water-soluble nutrient and a precursor for the synthesis of acetylcholine.

Synonyms

• Neurotransmitter: A broader category of chemical messengers of which acetylcholine is a specific type.
• Cholinergic transmitter: A more specific synonym emphasizing its chemical class.

Related Phrases and Compounds

• Acetylcholine esterase inhibitor: A substance that blocks the action of acetylcholinesterase, leading to increased acetylcholine levels.
  • Some Alzheimer's medications are acetylcholine esterase inhibitors.
• Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor: A type of acetylcholine receptor activated by the alkaloid muscarine.
• Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor: A type of acetylcholine receptor activated by the alkaloid nicotine.

Noun

1. a neurotransmitter that is a derivative of choline; released at the ends of nerve fibers in the somatic and parasympathetic nervous systems