ACHE

The enzyme acetylcholinesterase, also known as AChE or acetylhydrolase, is the primary cholinesterase in the body. It is a serine hydrolase whose primary function is to catalyzes the breakdown of acetylcholine(ACh) and of some other choline esters that function as neurotransmitters. AChE is found at mainly neuromuscular junctions and in chemical synapses of the cholinergic type, where its activity serves to terminate synaptic transmission. Acetylcholine deficit has been found in Alzheimer's disease (AD) ans is associated with cognetive decline. Therefore, AChE has been reported to be a viable therapeutic target for the treatment of AD and other dementias. To this end, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) are commonly used.