Pharmacology and toxicology of Acetylcholinesterase: mechanisms, therapeutic potential, and environmental impact
https://doi.org/10.55522/ijti.v2i5.0076
Keywords:
- Acetylcholinesterase, Pharmacology, Toxicology, Neurodegenerative Disorders, Environmental Risk, Pesticides.
Abstract
Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is a critical enzyme in the nervous system, responsible for terminating synaptic transmission by hydrolyzing acetylcholine. Due to its key role in neurotransmission, AChE and its inhibitors have become significant in treating neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Myasthenia Gravis. However, AChE inhibitors are also widely used in agriculture, posing potential environmental hazards as pesticides. This review provides a detailed analysis of the pharmacological role, therapeutic applications, and toxicological implications of AChE inhibitors. While these compounds offer therapeutic benefits, their environmental persistence and non-target toxicity raise ecological concerns. Balancing the dual impact of AChE inhibitors is vital to maximizing their benefits while minimizing risks.
