What is "acetylcholinesterase"

acetylcholinesterase \acetylcholinesterase\ n. 1. an enzyme which exists in nerve cells and hydrolyses acetylcholine into choline and acetic acid.

Note: It is essential for neurotransmission at autonomous synapses and neuromuscular junctions, and its inhibition by acetylcholinesterase inhibitors can paralyze or kill an animal.

Syn: ACE

n. (context enzyme English) An enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine into choline and acetic acid.

Acetylcholinesterase ( HGNC symbol ACHE), also known as AChE or acetylhydrolase, is the primary cholinesterase in the body. It is an enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of acetylcholine and of some other choline esters that function as neurotransmitters. AChE is found at mainly neuromuscular junctions and in chemical synapses of the cholinergic type, where its activity serves to terminate synaptic transmission. It belongs to carboxylesterase family of enzymes. It is the primary target of inhibition by organophosphorus compounds such as nerve agents and pesticides.