Acetylcholine (ACh)

Definition

Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter in the nervous system that plays a crucial role in stimulating muscle contractions and is involved in various brain functions including memory and learning. In the context of skeletal muscle, it is essential for transmitting nerve signals to muscle cells, leading to muscle movement.

Related terms

Neurotransmitter:

Chemical substances released at the end of a nerve fiber by the arrival of a nerve impulse, which by diffusing across the synapse or junction causes the transfer of the impulse to another nerve fiber, a muscle fiber, or some other structure.

Synapse:

The junction between two neurons or between a neuron and a muscle cell where neurotransmitters like acetylcholine are released to transmit nerve impulses.

Autonomic Nervous System:

The part of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary body functions such as heartbeat and digestion, divided into sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems