Acetylcholine Function and Breakdown

The video tutorial explains the cholinergic synapse, detailing its components, the process of choline uptake, acetylcholine synthesis, storage, and release. It also covers the breakdown of acetylcholine by acetylcholinesterase and the role of non-specific cholinesterase in breaking down other substances. The tutorial highlights the importance of understanding these processes for pharmacological applications.

What is the primary function of the presynaptic axon terminal in a cholinergic synapse?

• To break down neurotransmitters

• To transport ions across the synaptic gap

• To store and release neurotransmitters

• To receive signals from the postsynaptic cell

How is choline transported into the presynaptic terminal?

• Through a sodium channel

• Via a choline transporter

• By passive diffusion

• Using a potassium pump

What enzyme is responsible for adding an acetyl group to choline to form acetylcholine?

• Choline acetyltransferase

• Pyruvate dehydrogenase

• Choline kinase

• Acetylcholinesterase

What triggers the release of acetylcholine from the presynaptic terminal?

• An influx of sodium ions

• An action potential and calcium influx

• A decrease in synaptic gap size

• The breakdown of acetylcholine

Which enzyme is primarily responsible for breaking down acetylcholine in the synaptic gap?

• Acetylcholinesterase

• Choline acetyltransferase

• Monoamine oxidase

• Catechol-O-methyltransferase

What is the byproduct of acetylcholine breakdown that is considered non-functional in the body?

• Choline

• Acetic acid

• Acetyl coenzyme A

• Pyruvate

What is the role of non-specific cholinesterase in the body?

• It breaks down various esters including succinylcholine

• It only breaks down acetylcholine

• It synthesizes acetylcholine

• It transports choline into the cell

What happens to choline after acetylcholine is broken down in the synaptic gap?

• It is excreted from the body

• It is converted into acetic acid

• It is recycled back into the presynaptic terminal

• It remains in the synaptic gap

Which of the following is NOT a function of acetylcholinesterase?

• Binding to acetylcholine

• Synthesizing acetylcholine

• Recycling choline

• Breaking down acetylcholine

What is the main difference between acetylcholinesterase and non-specific cholinesterase?

• Acetylcholinesterase is not found in the synaptic gap

• Non-specific cholinesterase can break down other substances

• Acetylcholinesterase is less efficient

• Non-specific cholinesterase is specific to acetylcholine