Anti-Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor alpha 3/CHRNA3 antibody

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

The Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor alpha 3 also known as CHRNA3 is a subunit of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors important for mediating synaptic transmission. This protein with a mass of approximately 57 kDa forms one part of a pentameric complex which functions as an ion channel. It is widely expressed in the central and peripheral nervous systems contributing to the signaling mechanisms in neurons. CHRNA3 in conjunction with other nicotinic receptor subunits plays a role in neurotransmitter release exerting control over calcium and sodium ion influx that affects neuron excitability and response.

Biological function summary

CHRNA3 serves as a critical element of neurotransmission playing a part in the nicotine-induced dopaminergic signaling pathways. Often forming a complex with other subunits like beta-2 and beta-4 it modulates synaptic plasticity and influences behavioral processes such as addiction and attention. This subunit composition affects receptor specificity and sensitivity determining how neurons respond to acetylcholine and nicotine.

Pathways

The involvement of CHRNA3 in cholinergic signaling pathways is significant. It contributes to the role of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the addictive properties of substances like nicotine. Interaction with proteins such as CHRNB2 (nicotinic acetylcholine receptor beta-2 subunit) exemplifies how CHRNA3 participates in modulating synaptic strength and integration in the central nervous system. Its regulatory activity in these pathways demonstrates its importance in maintaining the balance of neurotransmitter systems.

Associated diseases and disorders

Aberrations in CHRNA3 expression or function link to several neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions. It associates with nicotine dependence and lung cancer where alterations in receptor activity influence disease progression. In these contexts CHRNA3 interacts with proteins like CHRNB4 further implicating its role in pathological nicotine dependence and suggesting potential for targeted intervention strategies.