Extensive research has determined the specific function of several nAChR subtypes. nAChRs are also found in non-neuronal/nonmuscle cells (keratinocytes, epithelia, macrophages, etc.). They are widely expressed in the central nervous system, while, in the periphery, they mediate synaptic transmission at the neuromuscular junction and ganglia. There are many nAChR subtypes, each consisting of a specific combination of subunits, which mediate diverse physiological functions. They are formed by the assembly of five transmembrane subunits, selected from a pool of 17 homologous polypeptides (α1–10, β1–4, γ, δ, and ε). Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are integral membrane proteins and prototypic members of the ligand-gated ion-channel superfamily, which has precursors in the prokaryotic world.
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