Abstract
Acetylcholine (ACh) is a phylogenetically ancient molecule involved in cell-cell signaling in almost all life forms. ACh was first proposed as a mediator of cellular function by Hunt in 1907, and in 1914 Dale pointed that its action mimicked the response of parasympathetic nerve stimulation (Dale 1914). Loewi, in 1921provided evidence for ACh release by nerve stimulation (Siegel et al. 1998). Furthermore, Dale’s experiments showed that separate receptors can explain the variety of actions of ACh. Subtyping of the receptors was based on the pharmacological activity of two alkaloids: Nicotine and muscarine.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Nerve-Driven Immunity |
Subtitle of host publication | Neurotransmitters and Neuropeptides in the Immune System |
Publisher | Springer-Verlag Wien |
Pages | 97-120 |
Number of pages | 24 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9783709108888 |
ISBN (Print) | 9783709108871 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Jan 2012 |
Externally published | Yes |