Question

The enzyme acetylcholinesterase causes acetylcholine to

A) decompose.
B) synthesize
C) bond to actin.
D) be secreted.
E) form cross-bridges.

Answer 1

Option A. Acetylcholinesterase decomposes acetylcholine by breaking it down into acetyl and choline.

Step-by-step explanation:

Acetylcholinesterase, an essential enzyme in biological systems, plays a crucial role in neurotransmission and neuromuscular function. Found at synapses and neuromuscular junctions, acetylcholinesterase acts to decompose the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. When a nerve impulse triggers the release of acetylcholine into the synapse, it binds to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane, leading to various physiological responses, such as muscle contraction.

To ensure the precise and timely termination of this signal, acetylcholinesterase rapidly acts to break down acetylcholine into its constituent parts—acetic acid and choline. This breakdown is essential because the continuous presence of acetylcholine would result in prolonged stimulation of the postsynaptic membrane, leading to continuous muscle contraction or sustained neural signaling, which is not conducive to normal physiological function.

Therefore, the correct answer to the given question is option A) decompose. Acetylcholinesterase's ability to break down acetylcholine is vital for maintaining the integrity of neural signaling and preventing overstimulation, allowing for precise control and coordination of muscular and neuronal activities in the body. This enzymatic activity is a key regulatory mechanism in neurotransmission and is critical for the proper functioning of the nervous system and neuromuscular junctions.

Answer 2

A) decompose.

Step-by-step explanation:

• Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that acts at the neuromuscular junction and activates the muscles.
• The neurotransmitter acetylcholine is hydrolyzed by the enzyme acetylcholinesterase into choline and acetate.
• Due to the activity of acetylcholinesterase, the acetylcholine does not remain for long in the synapses and thus, the synaptic transmission is terminated by the enzyme.