Disrupting the α7nAChR-NR2A protein complex exerts antidepressant-like effects.

ABSTRACT: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Most antidepressant medications target the serotonin and norepinephrine transporters, but a significant minority of patients do not respond to treatment and novel therapeutic targets are needed. We previously identified a protein complex composed of the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) and NMDA glutamate receptors (NMDARs), through which α7nAChR upregulates NMDAR function. Disruption of the α7nAChR-NMDAR complex with an interfering peptide blocked α7nAChR-mediated upregulation of NMDAR function and cue-induced reinstatement of nicotine seeking in rat models of relapse. Here we report that disrupting the α7nAChR-NMDAR complex with the interfering peptide also has antidepressant-like effects in

SUBMITTER: Jiang A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8256601 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature