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CHRNA3
CHRNA3 Full Name
cholinergic receptor, nicotinic, alpha 3 (neuronal)
CHRNA3 Introduction
Neuronal acetylcholine receptor subunit alpha-3, also known as nAChRα3, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CHRNA3 gene. The protein encoded by this gene is a subunit of certain nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAchR). Research with mecamylamine in animals has implicated alpha-3-containing nAChRs in the abusive and addictive properties of ethanol. The neuronal nicotinic alpha-3 receptor (nAChR α 3) encoded by the CHRNA3 gene is a key subunit of ligand gated ion channels in the nervous system, especially in the autonomic ganglia, forming receptors such as α 3 β 2 or α 3 β 4 that respond to acetylcholine, affecting neurotransmission, addiction (nicotine, alcohol), as well as heart rate and urination functions. It is crucial for controlling the sympathetic nervous system, regulating calcium influx, and is associated with nicotine use related diseases and behaviors.
Figure.Structure-Function of Neuronal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Inhibitors.(Source: Ho TN, et al, 2020)
Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) comprise a family of related genes (α2–α10, β2–β4) that can assemble to form pentameric ion channels that act as neurotransmitter receptors. Among their functions in the brain, neuronal nAChRs found in the interneurons of the hippocampus play an important role in regulating the synchronous firing of the much more numerous hippocampal pyramidal cells. The nAChR population in hippocampal interneurons is extremely heterogeneous and interneurons can have a diverse array of nAChR subunit mRNA expression .Diverse neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subtypes are expressed in hippocampal interneurons. Single-cell analysis of mRNA expression previously revealed prominent co-expression of the α3 and β2 subunits within rat interneurons in the CA1 region. Although the α3 subunit (traditionally expressed together with β4) is usually associated with the peripheral nervous system, its significant co-expression with the β2 subunit in hippocampal interneurons suggests a distinct, potentially novel central nervous system nAChR subtype.
The neuronal acetylcholine receptor subunit Alpha3 is the fundamental building block of nAChRs and is crucial for autonomic nervous system function and nociception. Its genetic disruption can lead to severe autonomic nervous system failure, while common genetic variations can affect addiction and susceptibility to lung diseases. Its unique positioning provides a unique opportunity for developing therapies that regulate the autonomic and sensory nervous systems. Compared to current drugs, this therapy has higher selectivity and fewer side effects. The ongoing research continues to reveal its role in non neuronal tissues and its potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker.
Alternate Names for CHRNA3
CHRNA3; cholinergic receptor, nicotinic, alpha 3 (neuronal); LNCR2; PAOD2; NACHRA3; neuronal acetylcholine receptor subunit alpha-3; cholinergic receptor, nicotinic, alpha polypeptide 3; neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, alpha3 subunit;
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