Paper Report for: Conti-Fine_2000_Eur.J.Pharmacol_393_279
Reference
Title: Neuronal nicotinic receptors in non-neuronal cells: new mediators of tobacco toxicity? Conti-Fine BM, Navaneetham D, Lei S, Maus AD Ref: European Journal of Pharmacology, 393:279, 2000 : PubMed
The nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are prototypic ionotropic receptors that mediate fast synaptic transmission. However, also non-excitable cells, and particularly the tegumental cells that line external and internal body surfaces, express acetylcholine receptors of neuronal type sensitive to nicotine. Bronchial epithelial cells, endothelial cells of blood vessels and skin keratinocytes express neuronal nicotinic receptors composed of alpha(3), alpha(5), beta(2) and beta(4) subunits, similar to those expressed in sympathetic ganglia, and neuronal nicotinic receptors composed of alpha(7) subunits. Neuronal nicotinic receptors in tegumental cells are involved in modulating cell shape and motility, and therefore in maintaining the integrity of the surfaces lined by those cells. Neuronal nicotinic receptors in non-neuronal tissues may modulate other functions, including cell proliferation and differentiation. Acetylcholine is synthesized, secreted and degraded by a variety of cells, including the tegumental cells that express neuronal nicotinic receptors. Thus, acetylcholine may function as a local "hormone" that is able to modulate cell functions that require fast adaptation to new conditions. The presence of neuronal nicotinic receptors sensitive to nicotine in tissues known to be involved in tobacco toxicity, like bronchi and blood vessels, raises the possibility that they mediate some of the toxic effects of smoking.
        
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Conti-Fine BM, Navaneetham D, Lei S, Maus AD (2000) Neuronal nicotinic receptors in non-neuronal cells: new mediators of tobacco toxicity? European Journal of Pharmacology393: 279-94
Conti-Fine BM, Navaneetham D, Lei S, Maus AD (2000) European Journal of Pharmacology393: 279-94