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Multiple Choice
If acetylcholinesterase became mutated and nonfunctional, which of the following would most likely occur?
A
Enhanced reuptake of acetylcholine into the presynaptic neuron
B
Increased breakdown of acetylcholine
C
Accumulation of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft
D
Decreased stimulation of postsynaptic receptors
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of acetylcholinesterase. Acetylcholinesterase is an enzyme responsible for breaking down acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft into acetate and choline, which terminates the signal transmission between neurons.
Step 2: Analyze the impact of a nonfunctional acetylcholinesterase. If acetylcholinesterase is mutated and nonfunctional, it cannot break down acetylcholine effectively, leading to its accumulation in the synaptic cleft.
Step 3: Evaluate the options provided. Enhanced reuptake of acetylcholine into the presynaptic neuron would not occur because acetylcholine remains in the synaptic cleft. Increased breakdown of acetylcholine is incorrect because the enzyme responsible for this process is nonfunctional.
Step 4: Consider the physiological consequences. Accumulation of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft would lead to prolonged stimulation of postsynaptic receptors, not decreased stimulation, as acetylcholine remains available to bind to these receptors.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Accumulation of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft,' as this aligns with the expected outcome of a nonfunctional acetylcholinesterase enzyme.