Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor (α1₂βγε Subtype) (nAChR α1₂βγε)

The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) α1₂βγε subtype is a ligand-gated ion channel found at the neuromuscular junction of adult mammalian skeletal muscle. It is composed of two α1, one β, one γ, and one ε subunit. Upon binding of acetylcholine, the channel opens, allowing cations (Na+, K+, and Ca2+) to flow through the membrane, leading to muscle cell depolarization and contraction. This receptor is the primary target in autoimmune diseases like myasthenia gravis and is also targeted by neuromuscular blocking agents used in anesthesia.

Other names

Muscle-type Nicotinic Acetylcholine ReceptornAChR α12bgeAcetylcholine Receptor, Nicotinic, Muscle Subtype

Agonist-induced opening of ion channel, leading to cation influx and muscle cell depolarization.