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Target intelligence / Profile preview
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor alpha-7 subtype (α7 nAChR)
- Target
- α7 nAChR
- Molecular classification
- Ion channel, Receptor, Ligand-gated ion channel
01
Overview
The α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor is a ligand-gated ion channel consisting of five identical α7 subunits. It plays critical roles in cognitive functions such as memory and attention, and is implicated in neuroprotection and various diseases. Activation of α7 receptors results in increased calcium influx, which enhances neuronal excitability and neurotransmitter release. This receptor is also involved in inflammatory responses and cancer progression.
- Other names
- alpha-7 nicotinic receptorα7 receptor
02
Mechanism of action
Activation of α7 receptors leads to increased Ca^2+ permeability, enhancing neuronal excitability and synaptic communication. Agonists like EVP-6124 directly activate the receptor, while positive allosteric modulators like PNU-120596 enhance channel activity.
03
Biological functions
Signal transductionNeuronal excitabilitySynaptic communicationNeuroprotectionCognitive function (memory, learning, attention)
04
Disease associations
Neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease, Schizophrenia)CancerCardiovascular diseases (atherosclerosis)InflammationInflammatory neurotoxicity in stroke and myocardial infarction
05
Safety considerations
Potential enhancement of atherosclerosis due to nicotine action on mast cellscareful consideration is needed when using agonists in certain conditions.
06
Interacting drugs
Varenicline
3 more in the full profile.
07
Biomarkers
Increased expression or activity of α7 nAChR can be used as potential biomarkers for some neurological conditions.
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