Acetylcholine Release at Cholinergic Nerve Terminals (ACh Release)

Acetylcholine (ACh) release at cholinergic nerve terminals is a fundamental process in both the central and peripheral nervous systems, mediating neuromuscular transmission, autonomic ganglionic signaling, and many central nervous system functions. The process involves ACh synthesis by choline acetyltransferase, vesicular storage, calcium-dependent exocytosis triggered by action potentials, binding to nicotinic or muscarinic receptors (including autoreceptors), signal termination via acetylcholinesterase, and choline reuptake. Modulation of this process is a target for drugs affecting muscle contraction, autonomic regulation, and cognitive function, but can lead to cholinergic crisis or anticholinergic side effects. Degeneration of cholinergic neurons and impaired ACh release contribute to diseases like Alzheimer's disease.

Other names

Cholinergic NeurotransmissionACh Release at SynapseAcetylcholine SecretionCholinergic Nerve Terminal Function

Modulation of acetylcholine synthesis, storage, release, or degradation at cholinergic nerve terminals