Cholinesterase acetylcholine destruction

A number of substituted p-aminoacetates inhibit the enzyme cholinesterase. The main function of this enzyme is to hydrolyze acetyl choline and thereby terminate the action of that substrate as a neurotransmitter. Such inhibition is functionally equivalent to the administration of exogenous acetylcholine. Direct administration of the neurotransmitter substance itself is not a useful therapeutic procedure due to rapid drug destruction and unacceptable side... 

There are two types of esterases found in animal tissues. True cholinesterase which is found in neural structures, RBC and placenta and is concerned with destruction of acetylcholine released at the nerve endings. The second type is pseudocholinesterase (non-specific cholinesterase) is found in blood serum, intestines, liver and skin and is responsible for the hydrolysis of benzoylcholine and does not hydrolyse methacholine. Cholinesterase hydrolyses acetylcholine into choline and acetic acid. 

Reversal of this type of neuromuscular block can be achieved with anticholinesterase drugs, such as neostigmine, which prevent the destruction by cholinesterase of acetylcholine released at nerve endings, allow the concentration to build up and so reduce the competitive effect of a blocking agent. 

Acetylcholine, a natural chemical in the brain, is required for memory and tliinking. Individuals with AD slowly lose tliis chemical, and as the levels of the chemical decrease, tlie patient experience problems with memory and thinking. The cholinesterase inhibitors act to increase the level of acetylcholine in the CNS by inhibiting its breakdown and slowing neuronal destruction. However, the disease is progressive, and although tliese dru alter the progress of tlie disease, they do not cure the disease The life span of a... 

Compounds which prevent the destruction of acetylcholine by cholinesterases at these sites therefore allow the accumulation of the endogenous neurohormone. At intoxicating concentrations, this effect is generally one of parasympathetic stimulation [12],... 

---