Enables acetylcholine-gated monoatomic cation-selective channel activity. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including activation of transmembrane receptor protein tyrosine kinase activity; behavioral response to nicotine; and chemical synaptic transmission. Part of acetylcholine-gated channel complex. Is active in cholinergic synapse and postsynaptic specialization membrane. Is expressed in several structures, including central nervous system; gut; myenteric nerve plexus; paravertebral ganglion; and retina. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in several diseases, including alcohol dependence; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; cocaine dependence; lung cancer (multiple); and nicotine dependence. Orthologous to human CHRNA3 (cholinergic receptor nicotinic alpha 3 subunit).
MGI Description
PHENOTYPE: Homozygotes for a targeted null mutation show high postnatal and postweaning mortality. Mutants show reduced bladder contractility resulting in enlarged bladder, infections and urinary stones. Eyes are small, with dilated ocular pupils. [provided by MGI curators]