From men to mice: CHRNA5/CHRNA3, smoking behavior and disease.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) gene cluster CHRNA5-A3-B4 on chromosome 15 has been the subject of a considerable body of research over recent years. Two highly correlated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within this region--rs16969968 in CHRNA5 and rs1051730 in CHRNA3--have generated particular interest.

Methods

We reviewed the literature relating to SNPs rs16969968 and rs1051730 and smoking-related phenotypes, and clinical and preclinical studies, which shed light on the mechanisms underlying these associations.

Results

Following the initial discovery of an association between this locus and smoking behavior, further associations with numerous phenotypes have been subsequently identified, including smoking-related behaviors, diseases,

SUBMITTER: Ware JJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3482013 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature