Acetylcholine Receptor, Nematode Type L (L-AChR)

The nematode L-type acetylcholine receptor (L-AChR) is a ligand-gated ion channel found at the neuromuscular junctions of nematodes. It mediates excitatory neurotransmission and is a primary target for several anthelmintic drugs, notably levamisole and pyrantel. The L-AChR is pharmacologically distinct from other nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subtypes in nematodes. The functional L-AChR is a pentamer composed of five different subunits: three α-subunits (unc-38, unc-63, lev-8) and two non-α-subunits (unc-29, lev-1). Assembly and trafficking of this receptor require three ancillary proteins: RIC-3, UNC-50, and UNC-74. Activation leads to depolarization of muscle cells resulting in contraction. Resistance to these drugs often maps genetically to mutations or deletions in one or more of the five core subunit genes or ancillary protein genes required for proper assembly/functioning of the receptor complex.

Other names

Levamisole-sensitive nAChRNematode L-type acetylcholine receptor

Agonist-induced ion channel opening leading to muscle cell depolarization and contraction (Levamisole, Pyrantel). Allosteric Inhibition (Nicotine)