Question

multiple choice question

what is the only neurotransmitter that causes skeletal muscle to contract?

acetylcholinesterase
adenosine triphosphate
angiotensin converting enzyme
acetylcholine

Explanation:

Identify the physiological mechanism

Using the Muscle Contraction knowledge point

• Motor neurons release a specific neurotransmitter into the synaptic cleft at the neuromuscular junction.
• This neurotransmitter binds to receptors on the sarcolemma, initiating an action potential that leads to calcium release and muscle contraction.

Evaluate the given options

• Acetylcholinesterase: An enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft to stop contraction, not a neurotransmitter that causes it.
• Adenosine triphosphate (ATP): An energy-carrying molecule used for cross-bridge cycling, not a neurotransmitter.
• Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE): An enzyme involved in blood pressure regulation, not a neurotransmitter.
• Acetylcholine (ACh): The specific neurotransmitter released by motor neurons to stimulate skeletal muscle contraction.

Answer:

• Acetylcholinesterase
• Adenosine triphosphate
• Angiotensin converting enzyme
• Acetylcholine (Correct answer)