The mechanism of action of choline acetyl transferase in Alzheimer’s disease

Acetylcholine (Ach) is synthesised from acetyl-coA and choline in the cytoplasm of autonomic nerve terminals. The final step in the synthesis is catalysed by the enzyme choline acetyltransferase (CAT). In Alzheimer’s disease CAT is less active than in an non-Alzheimer’s brain resulting in a reduction in the synthesis of Ach. As CAT activity declines, less ACH is packaged into the synaptic vesicles and released at the nerve terminal. This deficit in Ach leads to decreased neurotransmission and is implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease

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