Laboratory of Cholinergic Signaling

Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that binds to nicotinic and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs and mAChRs, respectively). While nAChRs are ion channels and mAChRs are metabotropic receptors coupled with G-proteins, both mediate acetylcholine signaling in the central nervous system and periphery. There are multiple subtypes of nAChRs and mAChRs with different structures and pharmacological properties, giving them distinct functions on cellular and organism levels. Although common, the various receptor subtypes are all expressed in specific neuronal populations that also serve different functions. The most fundamental processes such as neuronal signaling and activity, neurotransmitter release and neuronal plasticity are modulated by acetylcholine receptors. Therefore, it is unsurprising that they have been identified as potent therapeutic targets in a broad range of neuropsychiatric disorders. However, turning a potential target into an actual therapy is not easy. The ultimate goal of our group is to explore and exploit the great complexity of acetylcholine receptors to pave the way toward new, more safe and efficient therapeutic approaches.