cholinesterasenaktivität

Cholinesterasenaktivität refers to the enzymatic activity of cholinesterases, a class of enzymes that hydrolyze (break down) choline esters. The two primary types of cholinesterases are acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). Acetylcholinesterase is predominantly found in cholinergic synapses of the nervous system, where it plays a crucial role in terminating nerve signal transmission by rapidly hydrolyzing the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Butyrylcholinesterase is found in plasma, liver, and other tissues, and its precise physiological role is less well-defined, though it is thought to be involved in the hydrolysis of various choline esters, including acetylcholine, and potentially in detoxification.

Measuring cholinesterasenaktivität is important in various medical and toxicological contexts. For example, inhibition of AChE is the mechanism of action for many organophosphate and carbamate insecticides and nerve agents. Measuring cholinesterase levels in blood can help diagnose exposure to these substances, as a significant drop in activity indicates inhibition. Conversely, certain genetic variations can lead to reduced BChE activity, which can affect the metabolism of certain anesthetic drugs like succinylcholine, leading to prolonged muscle paralysis. Clinical laboratories often perform cholinesterase assays to monitor patients for these conditions or to assess the severity of intoxication. Different assay methods exist, typically involving the spectrophotometric measurement of the products of ester hydrolysis.