An enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that carries signals between nerve cells and muscles, helping signals stop after they're delivered.
From 'choline' (a B vitamin) + 'ester' (chemical compound) + '-ase' (enzyme suffix). Named for the molecule it breaks down.
Nerve gas and pesticides work by poisoning cholinesterase—they paralyze it so acetylcholine builds up and muscles contract uncontrollably. Understanding this enzyme was crucial for both developing chemical weapons and creating antidotes.
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