Acetylcholinesterase: The “Hub” for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Chemical Weapons Convention
Samir F. de A. Cavalcante, Alessandro B. C. Simas, Marcos C. Barcellos, Victor G. M. de Oliveira, Roberto B. Sousa, Paulo A. de M. Cabral, Kamil Kuča, Tanos C. C. França
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.
Topics & Concepts
AcetylcholinesteraseConventionNeuroscienceChemistryPolitical scienceBiologyBiochemistryLawEnzymeCholinesterase and Neurodegenerative DiseasesPesticide Exposure and ToxicityComputational Drug Discovery Methods