Other common SMTs include '''acetylcholine (ACh)''', '''ATP''' and '''nitric oxide (NO)'''. Ach is the most common excitatory neurotransmitter in the peripheral nervous system. Cholinergic neurons release ACh and for example, are found in the [[Muscles_-_Anatomy_%26_Physiology#Neurogenic_Contraction|neuromuscular junction]]. When '''ACh''' is released it facilitates the opening of sodium channels within the post-synaptic membrane allowing sodium ions to enter the membrane and causing depolarisation. Therefore '''ACh''' makes it easier for the cell to reach it's depolarisation threshold and generate an action potential. '''ACh''' has an effect on the post-synaptic membrane in skeletal muscle via '''nicotinic receptors''' which are ionotropic (see below). '''ACh''' also exerts an effect on smooth muscle via the parasympathetic nervous system via '''muscarinic receptors''' which are metabotropic (see below). | Other common SMTs include '''acetylcholine (ACh)''', '''ATP''' and '''nitric oxide (NO)'''. Ach is the most common excitatory neurotransmitter in the peripheral nervous system. Cholinergic neurons release ACh and for example, are found in the [[Muscles_-_Anatomy_%26_Physiology#Neurogenic_Contraction|neuromuscular junction]]. When '''ACh''' is released it facilitates the opening of sodium channels within the post-synaptic membrane allowing sodium ions to enter the membrane and causing depolarisation. Therefore '''ACh''' makes it easier for the cell to reach it's depolarisation threshold and generate an action potential. '''ACh''' has an effect on the post-synaptic membrane in skeletal muscle via '''nicotinic receptors''' which are ionotropic (see below). '''ACh''' also exerts an effect on smooth muscle via the parasympathetic nervous system via '''muscarinic receptors''' which are metabotropic (see below). |