Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are a class of neurotransmitter receptors found in the central and peripheral nervous systems. These receptors are responsible for the effects of nicotine on the body, including addiction and the release of dopamine. Recent developments in chemistry have led to the discovery of new ways to manipulate nAChRs. This has led to the development of new drugs that target these receptors for the treatment of a variety of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. One such drug is varenicline, which is used to help people quit smoking by reducing the pleasure associated with nicotine. Another drug, called galantamine, is used to treat Alzheimer's disease by increasing the amount of acetylcholine in the brain. The study of nAChRs is also providing insights into the role of these receptors in the development and progression of certain diseases. Studies have shown that mutations in nAChRs can lead to a variety of neuromuscular disorders, including myasthenia gravis and congenital myasthenic syndromes. Overall, the study of nAChRs is an exciting area of research in chemistry and neuroscience, with potentially far-reaching implications for the treatment of a variety of disorders. As scientists continue to uncover the complex mechanisms underlying the activity of these receptors, we may see even more exciting developments in the future.


From: Journal of New Developments in Chemistry

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Editor-in-chief: Zhe-Sheng Chen, Professor Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions St. John’s University
Publication Type: Open Access Journal
Description: Chemistry is a branch of physical science that studies the composition, structure, properties and change of matter. Chemistry includes topics such as the properties of individual atoms, how atoms form chemical bonds to create chemical compounds, the interactions of substances through inter molecular forces that give matter its general properties.