CHRNA9
Function
Ionotropic receptor with a probable role in the modulation of auditory stimuli. Agonist binding induces a conformation change that leads to the opening of an ion-conducting channel across the plasma membrane (PubMed:11752216, PubMed:25282151). The channel is permeable to a range of divalent cations including calcium, the influx of which may activate a potassium current which hyperpolarizes the cell membrane (PubMed:11752216, PubMed:25282151). In the ear, this may lead to a reduction in basilar membrane motion, altering the activity of auditory nerve fibers and reducing the range of dynamic hearing. This may protect against acoustic trauma. May also regulate keratinocyte adhesion (PubMed:11021840).
Post-translational modifications
N-glycosylated.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the ligand-gated ion channel (TC 1.A.9) family. Acetylcholine receptor (TC 1.A.9.1) subfamily. Alpha-9/CHRNA9 sub-subfamily.
Tissue Specificity
Expressed in cochlea, keratinocytes, pituitary gland, B-cells and T-cells.
Cellular localization
- Postsynaptic cell membrane
- Multi-pass membrane protein
- Cell membrane
- Multi-pass membrane protein
Alternative names
NACHRA9, CHRNA9, Neuronal acetylcholine receptor subunit alpha-9, Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunit alpha-9, NACHR alpha-9