Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Alpha6 Subunit Containing (nAChRα6)

The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor alpha6 subunit (nAChRα6) is a protein encoded by the CHRNA6 gene. It forms part of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), ligand-gated ion channels primarily found in dopaminergic pathways in the central nervous system. Activation of these receptors modulates dopamine release and is implicated in reward processing, addiction, and potentially Parkinson's disease. Selective targeting remains a challenge due to limited ligand selectivity.

Other names

Neuronal acetylcholine receptor subunit alpha‑6Acra6CHRNα₆

Agonist binding opens ion channel, leading to neuronal depolarization and neurotransmitter release (primarily dopamine). Antagonists block agonist binding and prevent channel opening.