Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is involved in cholinergic transmission, where it catalyses the hydrolysis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. A membrane-bound protein on the post-synaptic membrane. Also found in some non-neuronal cells, such as erythrocytes where its function is unclear. The erythrocyte enzyme extracted from the membrane anchor, using Triton-X 100, has a molecular weight 160,000. AChE is the target the organophosphorus insecticides such as parathion and malathion, all of which irreversibly inhibit the enzyme. Depressed levels of AChE activity is a sensitive indicator of exposure to these agents. It is also the target of anti-Alzheimer's drrugs such as tacrine, which are reversible inhibitors of the enzyme. Raised levels of AChE in amniotic fluid are indicative of foetal neural tube defects. For more information about AChE please download the PDF catalogue below.
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