Which neurotransmitter is created from choline and acetyl CoA?

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Study for the UCF ZOO3744 Neurobiology Exam 2. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter formed through the enzymatic reaction that combines choline and acetyl CoA. This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme choline acetyltransferase, which facilitates the transfer of the acetyl group from acetyl CoA to choline, resulting in the synthesis of acetylcholine.

Acetylcholine plays a crucial role in various physiological functions, including muscle contraction, autonomic nervous system responses, and cognitive processes like attention and memory. It is particularly important in the neuromuscular junction, where it binds to receptors on muscle cells to trigger contraction, as well as in the central nervous system, where it modulates synaptic transmission.

Understanding the synthesis of acetylcholine provides insights into how neurotransmitters influence communication between neurons and the physiological responses that stem from these interactions.