Vesamicol

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

A drug that inhibits acetylcholine storage in synaptic vesicles


Vesamicol
File:Vesamicol.svg
INN
Drug class
Routes of administration
Pregnancy category
Bioavailability
Metabolism
Elimination half-life
Excretion
Legal status
CAS Number 35543-15-2
PubChem 68811
DrugBank
ChemSpider 62037
KEGG D08595


Vesamicol is a pharmacological agent that acts as an inhibitor of the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT). This compound is primarily used in research settings to study the cholinergic system and its role in various physiological and pathological processes.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Vesamicol functions by inhibiting the VAChT, which is responsible for transporting acetylcholine into synaptic vesicles within cholinergic neurons. By blocking this transporter, vesamicol effectively reduces the storage of acetylcholine in vesicles, leading to decreased release of this neurotransmitter into the synaptic cleft. This action results in diminished cholinergic transmission, which can be useful for studying the effects of reduced acetylcholine activity in the nervous system.

Pharmacological Effects[edit | edit source]

The inhibition of acetylcholine storage by vesamicol can lead to a variety of effects depending on the system being studied. In the central nervous system, reduced cholinergic activity can affect processes such as learning, memory, and motor control. In the peripheral nervous system, vesamicol can influence autonomic functions and neuromuscular transmission.

Research Applications[edit | edit source]

Vesamicol is primarily used in experimental research to investigate the role of acetylcholine in various biological systems. It is particularly valuable in studies of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, where cholinergic dysfunction is a hallmark. By modulating acetylcholine levels, researchers can better understand the contributions of cholinergic pathways to disease progression and symptomatology.

Chemical Properties[edit | edit source]

Vesamicol is a piperidine derivative with the chemical formula C17H25NO. It is characterized by a cyclohexanol group linked to a phenylpiperidine moiety. The compound is typically synthesized in laboratory settings for research purposes.

Safety and Handling[edit | edit source]

As with many research chemicals, vesamicol should be handled with care in a controlled laboratory environment. Appropriate safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment, should be employed to prevent exposure.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD