Acetylcholine
Acetylcholine: A neurotransmitter released by nerves that is essential for communication between the nerves and muscles.
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- Acetylcholinesterase
Acetylcholinesterase: An enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at the synaptic cleft (the space between two nerve cells) so the next nerve impulse can be transmitted across the synaptic gap. Pesticides of the organophosphate and carbamate types act to paralyze and kill insects by inhibiting their acetylcholinesterase. Abbreviated AChE.
- Acetylcysteine
Acetylcysteine: An antioxidant drug used to reduce the thickness of mucus and ease its removal. It is also used to reverse the toxicity of high doses of acetaminophen. Acetylcysteine with hydration significantly reduces the risk of contrast nephropathy in patients with chronic renal insufficiency. Also called N-acetyl-L-cysteine.
- ACh (acetylcholine)
ACh (acetylcholine): Abbreviation for acetylcholine. See: Acetylcholine.
- Achalasia
A disease of the esophagus that mainly affects young adults. Abnormal function of nerves and muscles of the esophagus causes difficulty swallowing and sometimes chest pain. Regurgitation of undigested food can occur, as can coughing or breathing problems related to entry of food material into the lungs. The underlying problems are weakness of the lower […]
- AChE (acetylcholinesterase)
AChE (acetylcholinesterase): Abbreviation for acetylcholinesterase. See: Acetylcholinesterase.