Conformational changes in α7 acetylcholine receptors underlying allosteric modulation by divalent cations
2009
How Divalent Cations Affect Acetylcholine Receptors
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): McLaughlin James T, Barron Sean C, See Jennifer A, Rosenberg Robert L
Primary Institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Hypothesis
Are the conformational changes evoked by divalent cation modulators of the α7 AChR similar to those evoked by ACh?
Conclusion
Divalent cations cause some but not all of the conformational effects elicited by agonists on α7 acetylcholine receptors.
Supporting Evidence
- Divalent cations like Ba2+ can modulate the activity of α7 AChRs.
- Mutations at specific residues can affect the receptor's response to divalent cations.
- Conformational changes induced by divalent cations are similar to those caused by ACh.
Takeaway
This study looks at how certain minerals, like calcium, change the shape of a special protein in our body that helps send signals in our nervous system.
Methodology
The study used the substituted cysteine accessibility method (SCAM) to analyze the effects of divalent cations on α7 AChR.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website