Acetylcholine--inhibition of transmitter release from adrenergic nerve terminals mediated by muscarinic receptors.

The evidence is reviewed for the presence of muscarinic receptors on the sympathetic nerves to blood vessels. Activation of these receptors by acetylcholine in doses that are too small to affect the smooth muscle cells directly inhibits the release of norepinephrine evoked by electric impulses or potassium ions. This inhibitory action of acetylcholine is prevented by muscarinic blocking agents and is probably due to hyperpolarization of the adrenergic nerve terminals.