Illustration of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), the enzyme which catalyses the condensation and hydrolysis reactions of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Inhibition of AChE by nerve agents, insecticides and venoms can cause paralysis and death. AChE inhibitors are also used medicinally to treat the neuromusculature disorders glaucoma, Parkinson's, tachycardia and Alzheimer's, among others.