RESUMO

This article describes acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme involved in parasympathetic neurotransmission, its activity, and how its inhibition can be pharmacologically useful for treating dementia, caused by Alzheimer's disease, or as a warfare method due to the action of nerve agents. The chemical concepts related to the irreversible inhibition of AChE, its reactivation, and aging are discussed, along with a relationship to the current international legislation on chemical weapons.

Assuntos

Acetilcolinesterase , Envelhecimento/metabolismo , Doença de Alzheimer , Guerra Química/legislação & jurisprudência , Inibidores da Colinesterase/uso terapêutico , Agentes Neurotóxicos , Acetilcolinesterase/metabolismo , Doença de Alzheimer/tratamento farmacológico , Doença de Alzheimer/enzimologia , Proteínas Ligadas por GPI/antagonistas & inibidores , Proteínas Ligadas por GPI/metabolismo , Humanos