The Translational Addiction Podcast #6: Unraveling the Role of CHRNA6, the Neuronal α6 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Subunit

In this episode of the Translational Addiction Podcast, hosts Michaela Sumortin, Tanvi Garneni, and Ardavan Mehrazma, unpack how the CHRNA6 gene acts as a "missing genetic link" in addiction liability. Drawing on the review "Unraveling the role of CHRNA6, the neuronal α6 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunit" by Drs. Yasamin Heydary, Emily Castro, Shahrdad Lotfipour, and Frances Leslie, the episode explores how the α6 nicotinic receptor subunit and astrocytes shape the brain’s response to nicotine and alcohol. They discuss why α6 expression peaks during adolescence, creating a critical developmental window of vulnerability, and how targeting these receptors may transform treatment strategies.

Based on the manuscript by Drs. Yasamin Heydary, Emily Castro, Shahrdad Lotfipour, and Frances Leslie: Unraveling the role of CHRNA6, the neuronal 𝛼6 nicotinic AChR subunit

Listen now on lotfipourlab.org