CHRNA6 Human
Description
CHRNA6 is fused to a 36 amino acid His-tag at N-terminus & purified by proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Product Specs
The nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) family includes the Cholinergic Receptor Nicotinic, Alpha 6 (CHRNA6). These receptors are heteropentameric ligand-gated ion channels formed by the assembly of alpha and beta protein subunits. When acetylcholine binds to the AChRs, a significant conformational shift occurs, affecting all subunits and resulting in the opening of an ion-conducting channel through the plasma membrane. The nigrostriatal pathway is where CHRNA6 receptors are mostly found.
Product Science Overview
The CHRNA6 gene is located on chromosome 8 (8p11.21) in humans . The gene encodes the alpha 6 subunit of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, which is primarily found in the brain . The receptor is composed of five subunits that form a channel through the cell membrane . When acetylcholine or nicotine binds to the receptor, it causes a conformational change that opens the ion channel, allowing ions to flow through .
The alpha 6 subunit is predominantly expressed in dopaminergic neurons in the midbrain . These neurons are involved in the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in reward and addiction pathways . The receptor is also found in other brain regions, including the substantia nigra, ventral tegmental area, and superior colliculus .
The primary function of the nAChRα6-containing receptors is to mediate dopaminergic neurotransmission . Activation of these receptors by acetylcholine or nicotine leads to the release of dopamine, which is involved in various physiological processes, including motor control, reward, and addiction . Due to their selective localization on dopaminergic neurons, these receptors are considered potential therapeutic targets for treating Parkinson’s disease and nicotine addiction .
Mutations and polymorphisms in the CHRNA6 gene have been associated with nicotine and alcohol dependence . The receptor’s role in dopaminergic neurotransmission makes it a critical target for understanding and potentially treating addiction-related disorders . Additionally, the receptor’s involvement in dopamine release suggests its potential as a therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease .
Research on the CHRNA6 receptor has focused on its role in addiction and neurodegenerative diseases . Studies have shown that targeting this receptor can modulate dopamine release, offering potential therapeutic benefits for conditions like Parkinson’s disease and nicotine addiction . The development of selective agonists and antagonists for the nAChRα6 receptor is an area of active research, with the goal of developing new treatments for these conditions .
