AQ-RA 741

AQ-RA 741

AQ-RA 741 is a synthetic compound that acts as a selective antagonist of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor subtype M1. It is primarily used in research settings to study the physiological and pharmacological roles of the M1 receptor in various biological systems.

Chemical Structure and Properties

AQ-RA 741 is a quinuclidinyl benzilate derivative. Its chemical structure is characterized by a quinuclidine moiety linked to a benzilate group, which confers its selectivity for the M1 receptor. The molecular formula of AQ-RA 741 is C23H28N2O3, and it has a molecular weight of 380.48 g/mol.

Pharmacology

AQ-RA 741 exhibits high affinity for the M1 muscarinic receptor, with significantly lower affinity for other muscarinic receptor subtypes such as M2, M3, M4, and M5. This selectivity makes it a valuable tool in pharmacological research to dissect the specific roles of M1 receptors in various tissues.

Mechanism of Action

As an antagonist, AQ-RA 741 binds to the M1 receptor and inhibits the action of the endogenous neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This blockade prevents the activation of downstream signaling pathways that are typically triggered by acetylcholine binding, such as the phosphoinositide pathway, which leads to the release of intracellular calcium and activation of protein kinase C.

Research Applications

AQ-RA 741 is used extensively in neuroscience research to study the role of M1 receptors in cognitive processes, such as learning and memory. It is also employed in studies investigating the pathophysiology of neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease, where M1 receptor dysfunction is implicated.

Clinical Implications

While AQ-RA 741 itself is not used clinically, research findings using this compound have implications for the development of therapeutic agents targeting M1 receptors. Such agents could potentially be used to treat cognitive deficits in neurodegenerative diseases or psychiatric disorders.

Safety and Handling

As with many research chemicals, AQ-RA 741 should be handled with care in a laboratory setting. Appropriate safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment and adherence to institutional safety protocols, should be followed to minimize exposure and potential health risks.

Also see

• Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor
• M1 receptor
• Acetylcholine
• Alzheimer's disease
• Neuropharmacology