Recombinant Mouse Butyrylcholinesterase Protein Standard (His tag)

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Butyrylcholinesterase often called BuChE or BChE is a serine hydrolase enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of ester compounds such as butyrylcholine. It has a molecular mass of approximately 85 kDa. BChE is structurally similar to acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and is found in various tissues with high expression in the liver plasma and the central nervous system. This enzyme acts as a scavenger by breaking down circulating choline esters and certain therapeutic drugs playing an important role in detoxifying the blood.

Biological function summary

This enzyme is significant in nervous system function and is not restricted to acetylcholine breakdown but can hydrolyze larger ester molecules. It forms part of a complex regulatory mechanism alongside acetylcholinesterase ensuring precise modulating of neurotransmitter signaling. BChE can also serve as a backup to acetylcholinesterase in breaking down neurotransmitters therefore contributing to maintaining synaptic balance and functionality.

Pathways

BuChE is involved in the cholinergic signaling pathway playing a significant role in neurotransmitter regulation. This pathway is important for muscle activation and memory processing. BChE also impacts the metabolism of certain ester-type drugs used in anesthesia. Its activity balances with acetylcholinesterase modulating the availability of acetylcholine within synaptic clefts and seamlessly integrating into broader physiological processes.

Altered BChE activity correlates with Alzheimer's disease and certain liver diseases. In Alzheimer's decreased BChE activity parallels reduced acetylcholinesterase function which affects cholinergic transmission in the brain contributing to memory deficits. Disorders like liver cirrhosis also show a compromised BChE level due to liver's impaired enzyme production aligning it closely with liver function and disease diagnostics.