Which group of plants is associated with anticholinesterase effects?

• A. Solanaceae (Nightshade) family such as Lycopersicon (Tomato), Physalis (Ground Cherry), Solanum
• B. Poaceae family such as Zea mays, Oryza sativa
• C. Fabaceae family such as Acacia, Sophora
• D. Apiaceae family such as Daucus carota, Apium graveolens

Answer: (A)

Anticholinesterase effects come from compounds that inhibit acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine. The classic plant source is the Fabaceae (legumes) family, notably the Calabar bean Physostigma venenosum, which contains physostigmine (eserine). This compound inhibits acetylcholinesterase, increasing acetylcholine levels at cholinergic synapses. That association with AChE inhibition is why Fabaceae is linked to anticholinesterase effects.

In contrast, the Solanaceae family contains alkaloids like atropine and scopolamine that block muscarinic receptors rather than inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, giving anticholinergic effects instead. Poaceae and Apiaceae are not typically recognized for producing acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. So the group associated with anticholinesterase effects is Fabaceae.