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HERO ID
6544837
Reference Type
Journal Article
Subtype
Review
Title
CHOLINESTERASES, A TARGET OF PHARMACOLOGY AND TOXICOLOGY
Author(s)
Pohanka, M
Year
2011
Is Peer Reviewed?
1
Journal
Palacky University in Olomouc. Medical Faculty. Biomedical Papers
ISSN:
1213-8118
Volume
155
Issue
3
Page Numbers
219-229
Language
English
PMID
22286807
DOI
10.5507/bp.2011.036
Web of Science Id
WOS:000297807500002
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Cholinesterases are a group of serine hydrolases that split the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) and terminate its action. Of the two types, butyrylcholinesterase and acetylcholinesterase (AChE), AChE plays the key role in ending cholinergic neurotransmission. Cholinesterase inhibitors are substances, either natural or man-made that interfere with the break-down of ACh and prolong its action. Hence their relevance to toxicology and pharmacology.
METHODS AND RESULTS:
The present review summarizes current knowledge of the cholinesterases and their inhibition. Particular attention is paid to the toxicology and pharmacology of cholinesterase-related inhibitors such as nerve agents (e.g. sarin, soman, tabun, VX), pesticides (e.g. paraoxon, parathion, malathion, malaoxon, carbofuran), selected plants and fungal secondary metabolites (e.g. aflatoxins), drugs for Alzheimer's disease (e.g. huperzine, metrifonate, tacrine, donepezil) and Myasthenia gravis (e.g. pyridostigmine) treatment and other compounds (propidium, ethidium, decamethonium).
CONCLUSIONS:
The crucial role of the cholinesterases in neural transmission makes them a primary target of a large number of cholinesterase-inhibiting drugs and toxins. In pharmacology, this has relevance to the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
Keywords
Acetylcholinesterase; Butyrylcholinesterase; Alzheimer's disease; Myasthenia gravis; Huperzine; Donepezil; Rivastigmine; Galantamine
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