acetylcholine

noun

ace·​tyl·​cho·​line ə-ˌse-tᵊl-ˈkō-ˌlēn How to pronounce acetylcholine (audio)
-ˌsē-;
ˈa-sə-ˌtēl-
: a neurotransmitter [C7H16NO2]+ released at autonomic synapses and neuromuscular junctions and formed enzymatically in the tissues from choline

Examples of acetylcholine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The story starts with the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which helps govern memory. Gabe Allen, Discover Magazine, 28 Nov. 2023 Based on animal studies, the drugs also indirectly increase levels of a brain chemical called acetylcholine, which is involved in memory, learning, and attention. TIME, 7 Feb. 2024 The toxin makes its way into nerve cells and cleaves a critical protein complex necessary for the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, halting nerve signaling. Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 24 Jan. 2024 Activation of acetylcholine receptors helps to regulate brain development and growth. Anthony King, Scientific American, 13 June 2023 Its high antioxidant value helps to protect brain tissues and vessels against free radical damage, while coffee also increases the production of serotonin and acetylcholine (neurotransmitters responsible for certain brain functions like mood, memory, attention and arousal). Georgia Day, Vogue, 5 Dec. 2023 Alzheimer’s disease is thought to stem from a loss in function of the neurons that produce acetylcholine. Gabe Allen, Discover Magazine, 28 Nov. 2023 Additionally, choline may support brain health by supporting the production of neurotransmitters, notably acetylcholine, which is crucial for memory and cognitive function. Lauren Manaker Ms, Rdn, Ld, Clec, Verywell Health, 17 Nov. 2023 Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are involved in forming brain circuits during childhood and adolescence. Anthony King, Scientific American, 13 June 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'acetylcholine.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Acetylcholin, from Acetyl acetyl + Cholin choline

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of acetylcholine was in 1906

Dictionary Entries Near acetylcholine

Cite this Entry

“Acetylcholine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/acetylcholine. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

acetylcholine

noun
ace·​tyl·​cho·​line ə-ˌset-ᵊl-ˈkō-ˌlēn How to pronounce acetylcholine (audio)
-ˌsēt-;
ˈas-ə-ˌtēl-
: a compound released at autonomic nerve endings that functions in carrying nerve impulses

Medical Definition

acetylcholine

noun
: a neurotransmitter [C7H16NO2]+ released at autonomic synapses and neuromuscular junctions, active in the transmission of nerve impulses, and formed enzymatically in the tissues from choline
acetylcholinic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on acetylcholine

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