Myasthenia gravis is characterized by antibodies attacking which receptors?

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system produces antibodies that specifically target and attack acetylcholine (ACh) receptors located at the neuromuscular junction. This disruption interferes with the normal transmission of impulses from nerves to muscles, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue. The primary pathology involves the binding of these antibodies to the nicotinic ACh receptors, which impedes the action of acetylcholine released from motor neurons, preventing effective muscle contraction.

This understanding is rooted in the mechanism by which neuromuscular transmission occurs; normally, acetylcholine binds to its receptors, allowing for the initiation of muscle contractions. However, in myasthenia gravis, the reduction in functioning ACh receptors due to antibody binding leads to the hallmark symptoms of the disease.

The other options pertain to different neurotransmitter systems that are not directly involved in the pathophysiology of myasthenia gravis. For instance, serotonin and dopamine are neurotransmitters primarily associated with mood regulation and motor control, respectively, but do not play a role in the mechanisms underlying muscular contraction in this condition. Norepinephrine is associated with the sympathetic nervous system and is not relevant to the neuromuscular