Acetylcholinesterase: The "Hub" for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Chemical Weapons Convention

Biomolecules. 2020 Mar 7;10(3):414. doi: 10.3390/biom10030414.

Abstract

This article describes acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme involved in parasympathetic neurotransmission, its activity, and how its inhibition can be pharmacologically useful for treating dementia, caused by Alzheimer's disease, or as a warfare method due to the action of nerve agents. The chemical concepts related to the irreversible inhibition of AChE, its reactivation, and aging are discussed, along with a relationship to the current international legislation on chemical weapons.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease; Chemical Weapons Convention; acetylcholinesterase; nerve agents.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acetylcholinesterase* / metabolism
  • Aging / metabolism*
  • Alzheimer Disease* / drug therapy
  • Alzheimer Disease* / enzymology
  • Chemical Warfare / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • GPI-Linked Proteins / antagonists & inhibitors
  • GPI-Linked Proteins / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Nerve Agents*

Substances

  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors
  • GPI-Linked Proteins
  • Nerve Agents
  • ACHE protein, human
  • Acetylcholinesterase