Significance of Choline Acetyltransferase Enzyme in Tackling Neurodegenerative Diseases

Identified as a specific biomarker of the cholinergic neurons, choline acetyltransferase enzyme (ChAT) [EC number 2.3.1.6] catalyzes the synthesis of neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). Acetylcholine has an essential role in the normal functioning of the brain and body. ChAT is involved in the recycling of choline for the synthesis of ACh. Choline is recycled following its metabolism by the cholinesterase enzyme. The homeostatic imbalance of choline acetyltransferase activity leads to neurodegenerative disorders. Localization and distribution of ChAT in the neuronal and non-neuronal tissues are of significance. The presence of ChAT in non-neuronal tissue is related to its role in the immune response cascade. ChAT enzyme has been explored as a potential biomarker for marking of initial stages of neurodegenerative disorders. Here we discuss the structure, active site required for substrate binding, different forms of ChAT enzyme, and its role in neuronal/non-neuronal tissues. The neurological disorders that are treated symptomatically, but the underlying cause is imbalance or deficiency of ChAT enzyme, are also reviewed. Various stimulators of the ChAT enzyme, which can be of potential importance for treatment therapies of neurodegenerative diseases, are discussed. We hope that the review will help interested researchers to explore ChAT as a potential target for treating one of the causative factors of several related neurodegenerative diseases.