Neurotransmitter ACETYLCHOLINE (Ach)

What does ACETYLCHOLINE do?

Activates skeletal muscles.   Commonly secreted at neuromuscular joints (gaps connecting motor nerves to muscle cells) where it stimulates muscles to contract.

At other kinds of junctions, typically produces an inhibitory postsynaptic potential

Contributes to the regulation of attention, arousal, and memory

Some known effects of ACETYLCHOLINE

Ach receptors stimulated by nicotine;

Nerve gas attacks Ach system

The venom from the bite of a black widow spider causes an excessive release of acetylcholine.  This can lead to severe muscle contractions, spasms, paralysis, and possibly death.

Arrow tips poisoned with curare blocks transmission of acetylcholine at nerve cell synapses, causing paralysis