Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 17, 2026

Comprehensive Profiling of Dopamine Regulation in Substantia Nigra and Ventral Tegmental Area
Published on: August 10, 2012
Recombinant acetylcholinesterase has behavioural effects in the rat substantia nigra not attributable to its
1University Dept. of Pharmacology, Oxford, UK.
Abstract:
An unexplained action of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) has previously been demonstrated on motor behaviour in the substantia nigra: a single infusion of the protein induced long-term circling behaviour, reflecting sustained increased activity of the nigro-striatal pathway. In this study, a highly purified form of AChE was infused and the long-term behavioural effects were still observed. In addition, recombinant human AChE produced a similar response, suggesting that AChE itself, and not a contaminant, was responsible for these behavioural actions. Butyrylcholinesterase, which also hydrolyses acetylcholine, was without effect. Hence AChE is not exerting these actions by potentiating the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, but via some cholinergic-independent mechanism.
More Related Videos
06:09Semi-Quantitative Determination of Dopaminergic Neuron Density in the Substantia Nigra of Rodent Models using Automated Image Analysis
Published on: February 2, 2021
05:14Standardized Data Acquisition for Neuromelanin-Sensitive Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Substantia Nigra
Published on: September 8, 2021
Related Concept Videos
Direct-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Chemistry and Structure-Activity Relationship
The direct-acting...
Direct-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Pharmacokinetics
Indirect-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Chemistry and Structure-Activity Relationship
Reversible inhibitors display short to medium durations of action. Short-acting agents include simple alcohols with...
Indirect-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Mechanism of Action
Reversible inhibitors like edrophonium bind to a specific part of the enzyme called the anionic catalytic site. They form noncovalent bonds, which means they are not strongly attached to the enzyme. This creates a temporary and less stable enzyme–inhibitor complex, leading to...
Indirect-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Pharmacological Actions
At the neuromuscular junction, these agents work by inhibiting the breakdown of acetylcholine, allowing it to remain bound to the receptor and bind to nearby receptors. This process leads to repetitive firing of the endplate, causing muscle...
Anticholinesterase Agents: Poisoning and Treatment
Irreversible agents form a strong bond with the cholinesterase enzyme, making it inactive. The breakdown of the phosphorylated enzyme is slower than the...