Alpha-7 nicotinic receptor

The alpha-7 nicotinic receptor, also known as the α7 receptor, is a type of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor implicated in long term memory, consisting entirely of α7 subunits. As with other nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, functional α7 receptors are pentameric [i.e., (α7)5 stoichiometry]. It is located in the brain, spleen, and lymphocytes of lymph nodes where activation yields post- and presynaptic excitation, mainly by increased Ca2+ permeability.

The antibody which binds to the alpha-7 nicotinic receptors can be used for treating inflammatory disorders.