The Sound of Evolution
Physostigmine
Mechanism of action:
Physostigmine is a cholinesterase inhibitor and a carbamate derivative. It reversibly binds to acetylcholinesterase, temporarily inactivating the enzyme, reducing the hydrolysis of acetylcholine, and increasing the concentration of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft. This enhances the activity of various types of acetylcholine receptors.
Reference(s):
1. Nguyen PV et al. (1999). Maturation of neuromuscular transmission during early development in zebrafish. J Neurophysiol.
2. Tuovinen K et al. (1999). Success of pyridostigmine, physostigmine, eptastigmine and phosphotriesterase treatments in acute sarin intoxication. Toxicology.
3. Blasina MF et al. (2000). Evidence for a noncholinergic function of acetylcholinesterase during development of chicken retina as shown by fasciculin. Cell Tissue Res.