Butyrylcholine

Butyrylcholine is a synthetic compound that is structurally similar to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in the transmission of nerve impulses. It is often used in scientific research to study the function of cholinergic receptors.

Structure and Properties

Butyrylcholine is a quaternary ammonium compound, meaning it carries a positive charge at physiological pH. It consists of a butyryl group (a four-carbon chain) attached to a choline moiety. This structure is similar to that of acetylcholine, which has an acetyl group (a two-carbon chain) instead of the butyryl group.

Biological Activity

Butyrylcholine is an agonist of both muscarinic and nicotinic cholinergic receptors, similar to acetylcholine. However, it is less potent than acetylcholine at these receptors. It is often used in research to study the function and pharmacology of these receptors.

Medical and Scientific Use

In medical and scientific research, butyrylcholine is often used as a tool to study the function of cholinergic receptors. For example, it can be used to test the activity of cholinesterase enzymes, which are responsible for breaking down acetylcholine in the body. By observing the effect of butyrylcholine on these enzymes, researchers can gain insights into their function and potentially develop new drugs to treat disorders of the cholinergic system.

Safety and Toxicity

Like other cholinergic agents, butyrylcholine can have toxic effects if ingested or absorbed through the skin. These can include symptoms such as blurred vision, difficulty breathing, and muscle weakness. Therefore, it should be handled with care in a laboratory setting.

See Also

• Acetylcholine
• Cholinergic receptor
• Cholinesterase