Storage
Within nerve endings, the majority of acetylcholine is stored in minuscule, transparent vesicles, while a small portion remains freely suspended in the cytosol of specific cells. To facilitate the transfer of acetylcholine into these vesicles, the body employs a pump that lowers the pH level, resulting in acidification of the vesicle. Once the vesicle becomes acidic, a vesicular acetylcholine transporter facilitates the exchange of protons for acetylcholine molecules. It is worth noting that the gene responsible for the vesicular acetylcholine transporter is present in choline acetyltransferase, suggesting a close association between these two cholinergic proteins.
How Acetylcholine is Affected
Various factors can have an impact on the levels and functioning of acetylcholine in the body. This neurotransmitter can be affected by certain diseases, conditions, and medications.
One such example is the use of specific antibiotics, which can decrease the release of acetylcholine. This reduction in acetylcholine can lead to difficulties in muscle movement.
Imbalances in essential minerals within the body can also affect acetylcholine. A lack of calcium or an excessive amount of magnesium can disrupt the proper functioning of this neurotransmitter.
In addition to these factors, there is Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, an autoimmune disease that occurs at the neuromuscular junction where acetylcholine operates. This condition directly interferes with the calcium channels required for triggering the release of acetylcholine. Consequently, the body experiences a deficiency of acetylcholine, resulting in muscle weakness and an inability to contract the muscles effectively.