Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Neuronal α3β2 Subtype (nAChR α3β2)

The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) is a ligand-gated ion channel. The neuronal α3β2 subtype is a heteromeric nAChR, composed of alpha-3 (α3) and beta-2 (β2) subunits. These receptors mediate fast synaptic transmission by allowing cations to flow across the cell membrane upon activation by acetylcholine or nicotine. In neurons, activation leads to depolarization and can trigger action potentials or modulate neurotransmitter release. They are distributed throughout the CNS and PNS, with notable presence in autonomic ganglia and specific brain regions. Dysfunctional neuronal nAChRs have been implicated in diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia/autism spectrum disorders, neuropathic pain, and addiction.

Activation of the receptor leads to influx of cations (Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺) across the cell membrane, causing depolarization and potentially triggering action potentials or modulating neurotransmitter release.