Nicotinic receptors in human brain: topography and pathology

摘要: Abstract Brain nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) are a class of ligand-gated channels composed α and β subunits with specific structural, functional pharmacological properties. They participate in the physiological behavioural effects mediate responses to nicotine. associated numerous transmitter systems their expression is altered during development ageing as well diseases such autism, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease Lewy body dementia. Nicotinic containing number different highly expressed early human development. Disorders believed be abnormal brain maturation involve deficits both α4β2, case α7 possibly addition α4β2 nAChRs schizophrenia. In age-related neurodegenerative disorders nAChR predominantly α4-containing receptors, although some studies also indicate involvement α3 subunits. Whilst appears reductions subunit mRNA protein expression, only loss apparent. therapy may benefit neurological conditions, however evaluating further distribution correlation clinical symptoms required inform therapeutic strategy.