Glossary A

Antibodies refer to proteins in the immune system that recognize antigens and help kill invading microorganisms.

Y-shaped protein that fits onto an antigen and weakens it or marks it for destruction

Antibody generators is another name for Antigens that refers to specific immune cells that are earmarked for specific germs

Anticathexes refer to the Control or restraint exercised by the ego over the Id to keep Id impulses out of consciousness.

Anticathexis refers to expenditure of energy to prevent a cathexis that would cause anxiety.

Anticholinergic agents refer to medication drugs that block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter with an effect opposite to that of dopamine. By blocking the action of acetylcholine, these drugs increase the ability of dopamine to control movement. Examples of anticholinergic drugs used in the treatment of Parkinson disease include trihexyphenidyl (Artane®), benztropine (Cogentin®), and ethopropazine (Parsidol®).

Anticholinergic hallucinogens refer to a class of drugs including Atropine and Scopolamine.

Anticholinesterase refers to an agent that inhibits action of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). AChE is an enzyme that inactivates acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter at the junctions of nerve and muscle cells (neuromuscular junctions) that regulates the delivery of messages from neurons to muscle fibers. By inhibiting the activity of AChE, such medications allow high levels of acetylcholine to accumulate, potentially enabling repeated stimulation of nerves at neuromuscular junctions.

Antibodies