Cholinergic

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Cholinergic

Cholinergic (pronunciation: koh-lin-ER-jik) refers to the aspects of the nervous system that use the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. The term is derived from the name of the chemical compound, acetylcholine, and the Greek word "ergon", meaning work.

Etymology

The term "cholinergic" is derived from the name of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, and the Greek word "ergon", meaning work. Acetylcholine was first identified in the early 20th century, and its role as a neurotransmitter was established by the mid-century. The term "cholinergic" was coined to describe the cells, receptors, and pathways that use or are affected by acetylcholine.

Cholinergic Neurons

Cholinergic neurons are nerve cells that use acetylcholine as their primary neurotransmitter. These neurons are found throughout the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nervous system. They play a crucial role in many physiological functions, including muscle contraction, heart rate regulation, memory, and learning.

Cholinergic Receptors

Cholinergic receptors are proteins located on the cell membrane that bind to acetylcholine. There are two main types of cholinergic receptors: nicotinic and muscarinic. Nicotinic receptors are ion channels that, when activated by acetylcholine, allow ions to flow across the cell membrane. Muscarinic receptors, on the other hand, are G protein-coupled receptors that activate intracellular signaling pathways when bound by acetylcholine.

Cholinergic Drugs

Cholinergic drugs are medications that affect the cholinergic system. They can either mimic the action of acetylcholine (cholinergic agonists) or block its effects (cholinergic antagonists). These drugs are used to treat a variety of conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, myasthenia gravis, and glaucoma.

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