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cholinergic receptor nicotinic alpha 2 subunit

The CHRNA2 gene provides instructions for making one part (subunit) of a larger protein complex called a neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR). Each nAChR complex is made up of a combination of five subunits, usually two alpha (α) and three beta (β) subunits.  Many different combinations are possible, and the characteristics of each nAChR complex depend on its specific subunits. The CHRNA2 gene is responsible for producing a subunit known as α2. Little is known about the specific function of nAChR proteins made with this subunit.

Normal function

The CHRNA2 gene provides instructions for making one part (subunit) of a larger protein complex called a neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR). Each nAChR complex is made up of a combination of five subunits, usually two alpha (α) and three beta (β) subunits.  Many different combinations are possible, and the characteristics of each nAChR complex depend on its specific subunits. The CHRNA2 gene is responsible for producing a subunit known as α2. Little is known about the specific function of nAChR proteins made with this subunit.

In the brain, nAChR proteins are widely distributed and play an important role in chemical signaling between nerve cells (neurons).  The nAChR acts as a channel, allowing charged atoms (ions), including calcium, sodium, and potassium, to cross the cell membrane.  These channels open when they attach to a chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) called acetylcholine.  The channels also open in response to nicotine, the addictive substance in tobacco.

Communication between neurons depends on neurotransmitters, which are released from one neuron and taken up by neighboring neurons. The release and uptake of these chemicals are tightly regulated to ensure that signals are passed efficiently and accurately between neurons. Researchers believe that nAChR channels play an important role in controlling the normal release and uptake of neurotransmitters.

A wide range of brain functions depend on nAChR channels, including sleep and arousal, fatigue, anxiety, attention, pain perception, and memory. The channels are also active before birth, which suggests that they are involved in early brain development.

Conditions referring to this gene or chromosome

Other names

Acetylcholine receptor, neuronal nicotonic, alpha-2 subunit

ACHA2_HUMAN

Cholinergic receptor, neuronal nicotinic, alpha polypeptide 2

cholinergic receptor, nicotinic alpha 2

cholinergic receptor, nicotinic, alpha 2

cholinergic receptor, nicotinic, alpha 2 (neuronal)

cholinergic receptor, nicotinic, alpha polypeptide 2 (neuronal)

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Informationen på denna sida är skriven och granskad av kvalificerade kliniker.
  • 8 Aug 2025 | Senaste versionen
  • 1 Apr 2009 | Ursprungligen publicerad

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