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Acetylcholinesterase

Meaning

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is a crucial enzyme that rapidly hydrolyzes the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, terminating its signaling action at the synaptic cleft. This enzyme plays an indispensable role in regulating nerve impulse transmission across cholinergic synapses throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems. Maintaining optimal AChE activity is vital for proper muscle contraction, autonomic function, and cognitive processes. Its clinical relevance in hormonal health is tied to the neuroendocrine axes, which are profoundly influenced by cholinergic signaling.