Acetylcholine (ACh) is a vital chemical messenger—or neurotransmitter—that facilitates communication between neurons in both the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system (nerves throughout the body). As the first neurotransmitter discovered (in 1914), it plays a crucial role in regulating muscle movement, cognitive functions, and autonomic bodily processes. Key Functions of Acetylcholine
ACh is released at neuromuscular junctions to stimulate skeletal muscles to contract. acetylcholine
Acetylcholine acts as a versatile mediator, responsible for both excitatory (stimulating) and inhibitory (slowing) signals. Acetylcholine acts as a versatile mediator, responsible for
Acetylcholine is synthesized within nerve terminals from two primary components: choline (often derived from diet) and acetyl coenzyme A. An enzyme called facilitates this process. Acetylcholine (ACh): What It Is, Function & Deficiency Acetylcholine (ACh): What It Is, Function & Deficiency
It plays a central role in learning, memory, arousal, and attention.
Often called the "chief" neurotransmitter of the parasympathetic nervous system, it helps control involuntary processes, including slowing the heart rate, decreasing blood pressure, stimulating digestion, and increasing secretions.
ACh is essential for initiating rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Synthesis and Breakdown