When the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) binds the acetylcholine receptor (a GPCR) on muscle cells, it causes them to contract. ZIGGY, a chemical analog of ACh, also binds to the same acetylcholine receptor on muscle cells, but instead causes the muscle cells to relax. For this reason, it is sometimes prescribed as a muscle relaxer. Explain in 3-4 sentences how ZIGGY could cause muscle relaxation. How can both ZIGGY and ACh bind the same GPCR? And then how can they have different effects on the cells, despite binding to the same receptor on the same cells?

Medical Terminology for Health Professions, Spiral bound Version (MindTap Course List)
8th Edition
ISBN:9781305634350
Author:Ann Ehrlich, Carol L. Schroeder, Laura Ehrlich, Katrina A. Schroeder
Publisher:Ann Ehrlich, Carol L. Schroeder, Laura Ehrlich, Katrina A. Schroeder
Chapter4: The Muscular System
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Problem 32LE: A _______________ is a drug that causes temporary paralysis by blocking the transmis- sion of nerve...
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When the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) binds the acetylcholine receptor (a GPCR) on muscle cells, it causes them to contract. ZIGGY, a chemical analog of ACh, also binds to the same acetylcholine receptor on muscle cells, but instead causes the muscle cells to relax. For this reason, it is sometimes prescribed as a muscle relaxer. Explain in 3-4 sentences how ZIGGY could cause muscle relaxation.

How can both ZIGGY and ACh bind the same GPCR? And then how can they have different effects on the cells, despite binding to the same receptor on the same cells?

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