Role of Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology: Current Trends and Perspectives

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) comprise a large family of ligand-gated ion channels that have a broad distribution in neurons and non-neuronal cells throughout the body. Native nAChRs, activated by acetylcholine (ACh) endogenously, are involved in a variety of physiological and pathophysiological processes. They regulate processes necessary for network operations through neurotransmitter release, cell excitability and neuronal integration. Emerging evidence suggests that nAChRs are capable of regulating cardiovascular (CV) functions in a cell type-specific manner, through the nervous system and non-neuronal tissues. The aim of this review is to describe the most recent findings regarding the role of nAChRs inside and outside the nervous system in the regulation of CV activities.