Kalkman, HO and Feuerbach, Dominik (2016) Modulatory effects of α7 nAChRs on the immune system and its relevance for CNS disorders. Cellular and molecular life sciences.

Abstract

The clinical development of selective alpha-7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7 nAChR) agonists has hitherto been focused on disorders characterized by cognitive deficits (Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia). However, α7 nAChRs are also widely expressed by cells of the immune system and by cells with a secondary role in pathogen defense. Activation of α7 nAChRs leads to an anti-inflammatory effect. Since sterile inflammation is a frequently observed phenomenon in both psychiatric disorders (e.g. schizophrenia, melancholic- and bipolar depression) and neurological disorders (e.g. Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis), α7 nAChR agonists might show beneficial effects in these central nervous system disorders. In the current review, we summarize information on receptor expression, the intracellular signaling pathways, the reasons for receptor dysfunction, clinical evidence for altered α7 nAChR function (including information on tobacco smoking, vagus nerve stimulation and cholinesterase inhibitors), and finally discuss potential indications for selective α7 nAChR agonists.

Item Type:	Article
Date Deposited:	26 Apr 2016 23:45
Last Modified:	26 Apr 2016 23:45
URI:	https://oak.novartis.com/id/eprint/27779