Acetylcholine Chloride: A Neurotransmitter in the Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems
Acetylcholine (ACh) is the transmitter at postganglionic synapses of parasympathetic nerve endings. ACh acts as a neurotransmitter in the central and peripheral nervous systems. ACh is formed from choline [
C0326] and activated acetate (acetylcoenzyme A), through a reaction catalyzed by the cytosolic enzyme choline acetytransferase. During nerve stiumulation, the choline-transporter ensures ACh synthesis and release are sustained. Released ACh is rapidly hydrolyzed and inactivated by a specific acetylcholinesterase or a less specific serum cholinesterase (butyrylcholinesterase).