PATHOLOGY

PATHOLOGY MCQ

NERVOUS SYSTEM

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
The activity of acetylcholine in a synapse is terminated by
A
its degradation by a hydrolytic enzyme on the postsynaptic membrane.
B
its active transport across the presynaptic membrane.
C
its diffusion across the presynaptic membrane.
D
its diffusion across the postsynaptic membrane.
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -Acetylcholinesterase (AChE ) is a cholinergic enzyme primarily found at postsynaptic neuromuscular junctions, especially in muscles and nerves. It immediately breaks down or hydrolyzes acetylcholine (ACh), a naturally occurring neurotransmitter, into acetic acid and choline.

Detailed explanation-2: -Acetylcholine. Acetylcholine action is terminated by acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme present in the synaptic cleft. Acetylcholinesterase degrades acetylcholine into choline and acetate molecules. Choline is then transported back into the presynaptic terminal and used in the synthesis of new acetylcholine.

Detailed explanation-3: -The actions of ACh are terminated by the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which hydrolyzes ACh. The activity of acetylcholinesterase can be inhibited by drugs such as neostigmine and the nerve gas agent sarin.

Detailed explanation-4: -In contrast to most other small-molecule neurotransmitters, the postsynaptic action of ACh at many cholinergic synapses (the neuromuscular junction in particular) are not terminated by reuptake but by a powerful hydrolytic enzyme, acetylcholinesterase (AChE).

Detailed explanation-5: -Termination of synaptic transmission by neurotransmitter hydrolysis is a substantial characteristic of cholinergic synapses. This unique termination mechanism makes acetylcholinesterase (AChE), the enzyme in charge of executing acetylcholine breakdown, a key component of cholinergic signaling.

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