Which neurotransmitter is involved in muscle contraction?

Acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter that plays a critical role in muscle contraction. When a nerve impulse reaches the end of a motor neuron, acetylcholine is released into the synaptic cleft at the neuromuscular junction. This neurotransmitter then binds to receptors on the muscle fiber's surface, leading to depolarization of the muscle cell membrane. The resulting electrical signal triggers a series of events that ultimately cause the muscle fibers to contract. This process is essential for all voluntary movements in the body.

Understanding the function of acetylcholine is fundamental in neuroscience and physiology, especially regarding motor control and the mechanisms of muscle movement. The involvement of acetylcholine in muscle contraction highlights its importance in both normal muscle function and in conditions where muscle contraction is impaired.