Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor
The Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor (nAChR) is a type of protein found in the nervous system that responds to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. These receptors are crucial for transmitting signals between nerve cells and muscle cells, playing a key role in muscle contraction and various brain functions.
nAChRs are ion channels that open when acetylcholine binds to them, allowing ions like sodium and calcium to flow into the cell. This process generates electrical signals that facilitate communication within the nervous system, influencing activities such as movement, attention, and learning.