Question

What is the role of acetylcholinesterase? How are neurotransmitter removed?

Role of Acetylcholinesterase (AChE):
Acetylcholinesterase breaks down acetylcholine, terminating nerve impulses at cholinergic synapses.

Neurotransmitter Removal:

Reuptake: Neurotransmitters are taken back into the presynaptic neuron.
Enzymatic Degradation: Enzymes like AChE break down neurotransmitters.
Diffusion: Neurotransmitters may diffuse away from the synaptic cleft.

Answer 1

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) in the synaptic cleft, which prevents continuous activation of the postsynaptic neuron and allows the synapse to reset. Neurotransmitters can be removed by diffusion, enzymatic degradation by enzymes like AChE, or reuptake into the presynaptic neuron.

Step-by-step explanation:

The enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) plays a critical role in the functioning of cholinergic synapses by breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). Once ACh is released into the synaptic cleft, AChE cleaves it into acetyl and choline, thus preventing continuous stimulation of the postsynaptic neuron, which could lead to an extended muscle contraction. The degradation of ACh is necessary for the synapse to 'reset' and be ready for subsequent neural transmission.

Neurotransmitters are cleared from the synaptic cleft through three primary mechanisms: diffusion away from the cleft, enzymatic degradation, or via reuptake by the presynaptic neuron. In the case of ACh, enzymatic degradation by AChE renders the neurotransmitter inactive, thereby regulating neurotransmission. This process is crucial for maintaining proper communication between neurons and is targeted by certain pharmaceuticals in the treatment of neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease.