As a neuroscientist with a focus on synaptic transmission, I can explain the role of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) at a synapse. Acetylcholinesterase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the termination of neurotransmission at cholinergic synapses. When a nerve impulse reaches the end of a neuron, it triggers the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) into the synaptic cleft. Acetylcholine then binds to receptors on the postsynaptic neuron, causing it to become excited or inhibited, depending on the type of receptor. Acetylcholinesterase is responsible for rapidly breaking down acetylcholine into choline and acetate. This breakdown is essential for several reasons: 1. Regulation of Signal Duration: By degrading ACh, AChE ensures that the neurotransmitter's action is brief and localized to the synaptic cleft, preventing continuous stimulation of the postsynaptic neuron. 2. Prevention of Overstimulation: It prevents the overstimulation of the postsynaptic neuron, which could lead to neuronal damage or death. 3. Recycling of Neurotransmitter: The breakdown products can be taken up by the presynaptic neuron and used to synthesize new acetylcholine, thus recycling the neurotransmitter. Without acetylcholinesterase, acetylcholine would accumulate in the synaptic cleft, potentially leading to uncontrolled activation of the postsynaptic neuron and disrupting normal synaptic function. read more >>

The enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) terminates synaptic transmission at cholinergic synapses by hydrolyzing the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. In addition, AChE is thought to play several 'non-classical' roles that do not require catalytic function. Most prominent among these is facilitation of neurite growth.read more >>