Some insecticides interfere with the removal of acetylcholine from the synaptic cleft. What effect will this have on muscle contraction?
A) The muscle cell will lose all of its supply of calcium.
B) The muscle cell will be unable to be stimulated again.
C) The muscle cell will be in a state of constant stimulation, leading to a tetany response.
D) The muscle cell will have a single twitch and will be unable to contract again.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that stimulates muscle contractions by binding to receptors on the muscle cell. Normally, acetylcholine is quickly removed from the synaptic cleft by an enzyme called acetylcholinesterase. Insecticides that interfere with acetylcholinesterase activity prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, leading to prolonged muscle stimulation. This can result in muscle convulsions and a tetany response, where the muscles contract uncontrollably. Therefore, the best choice is C.

Some Insecticides Interfere with the Removal of Acetylcholine from the Synaptic