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[[File:Choline-skeletal.svg|Choline-skeletal|thumb]] [[Image:Acetylcholine.svg|Acetylcholine|thumb|left]] '''Cholinergic''' refers to any [[neuron]], [[receptor]], [[system]], or [[drug]] that utilizes [[acetylcholine]] (ACh) as its [[neurotransmitter]]. The term derives from the name of the [[alkaloid]], choline, a component of [[lecithin]], which is abundant in [[nerve tissue]], [[egg yolk]], and other substances. Cholinergic systems are essential in a wide range of nervous system functions, including [[muscle contraction]], [[heart rate]], [[memory]], and [[learning]].

==Cholinergic Neurons==
Cholinergic neurons synthesize and release acetylcholine. These neurons are found in several important areas of the [[brain]], including the [[basal forebrain]] and the [[brainstem]], playing critical roles in arousal, attention, memory, and motivation. In the [[peripheral nervous system]] (PNS), cholinergic neurons are involved in activating [[muscle cells]] in both the [[somatic nervous system]] (responsible for voluntary muscle movements) and the [[autonomic nervous system]] (regulating involuntary bodily functions).

==Cholinergic Receptors==
There are two main types of cholinergic receptors, known as [[muscarinic receptors]] and [[nicotinic receptors]], named after the drugs muscarine and nicotine, which selectively bind to them, respectively.

===Muscarinic Receptors===
Muscarinic receptors are [[G protein-coupled receptors]] (GPCRs) found in the [[central nervous system]] (CNS) and the PNS. They mediate more slow and prolonged responses to acetylcholine and are involved in various functions, including modulation of [[heart rate]], [[smooth muscle]] contraction, and glandular secretion.

===Nicotinic Receptors===
Nicotinic receptors are [[ion channel]]s that, when activated by acetylcholine, allow the flow of [[ions]] across the cell membrane. These receptors are found in the CNS, the neuromuscular junctions of skeletal muscles, and the autonomic ganglia. Activation of nicotinic receptors results in rapid, direct effects such as muscle contraction and fast synaptic transmission in the CNS.

==Cholinergic Drugs==
Cholinergic drugs can either mimic the action of acetylcholine ([[agonists]]) or block its action ([[antagonists]]). These drugs have various clinical applications, including the treatment of [[glaucoma]], [[Alzheimer's disease]], and [[myasthenia gravis]], among others.

===Cholinergic Agonists===
Cholinergic agonists, also known as parasympathomimetic drugs, stimulate the cholinergic system. They can be direct-acting, binding to and activating cholinergic receptors, or indirect-acting, inhibiting the enzyme [[acetylcholinesterase]], which breaks down acetylcholine, thereby increasing its availability and action.

===Cholinergic Antagonists===
Cholinergic antagonists, or anticholinergics, inhibit the action of acetylcholine at cholinergic receptors. These drugs are used to treat a variety of conditions, including [[asthma]], [[COPD]], [[overactive bladder]], and [[Parkinson's disease]]. They work by blocking the muscarinic receptors in the PNS, thus inhibiting the parasympathetic nervous system.

==Conclusion==
The cholinergic system plays a vital role in many physiological functions and is a significant target for therapeutic drugs. Understanding the complexities of this system is crucial for the development of treatments for a wide range of diseases.

[[Category:Neurochemistry]]
[[Category:Pharmacology]]
{{medicine-stub}}

Cholinergic - Revision history

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