Sandbox 250: Difference between revisions
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==='''Backgorund Informatiom'''=== | |||
When a nerve impulse reaches the presynaptic nerve terminal, where it stimulates the release of the neurotransmitter, ACh, into the cholinergic synapse. ACh diffuses across the synapse to the postsynaptic nerve terminal, and binds to receptors embedded in the membrane of the postsynaptic nerve terminal. The binding of ACh to receptors in the postsynaptic neuron re-initiates the nerve impulse. Finally AChE, anchored to the membrane of the postsynaptic nerve terminal, hydrolyzes ACh to acetate and choline resulting in the termination of the nerve impulse at the synapse. | |||
Inhibition of AChE may result in different outcomes, depending on the physiological context. Toxins such as FAS-II from the East African Green Mamba snake inhibit AChE and ultimately lead to death. Conversely, reversible inhibition of AChE, in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, is an effective way to improve their symptoms, including memory loss and disorientation. | |||
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<applet load='2ace' size='300' frame='true' align='left' scene='Sandbox_250/Ache_ach/30' caption='AChE in complex with ACh'/> | <applet load='2ace' size='300' frame='true' align='left' scene='Sandbox_250/Ache_ach/30' caption='AChE in complex with ACh'/> | ||