Formetanate hydrochloride (CAS 23422-53-9)

Formetanate hydrochloride is a chemical that functions as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. It acts by irreversibly binding to the active site of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, preventing the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This inhibition leads to an accumulation of acetylcholine at the synaptic cleft, resulting in continuous stimulation of the postsynaptic receptors. As a result, Formetanate hydrochloride disrupts the normal functioning of the nervous system by causing overstimulation of cholinergic receptors. This disruption can lead to a range of physiological effects, including muscle tremors, convulsions, and ultimately paralysis. At the molecular level, formetanate hydrochloride interferes with the hydrolysis of acetylcholine, leading to the accumulation of the neurotransmitter and subsequent overstimulation of cholinergic receptors. This mechanism of action may be a useful for studying the role of acetylcholinesterase in neurotransmission and for investigating the physiological effects of cholinergic receptor overstimulation in experimental applications.