CHRNA9

This gene is a member of the ligand-gated ionic channel family and nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene superfamily. It encodes a plasma membrane protein that forms homo- or hetero-oligomeric divalent cation channels. This protein is involved in cochlea hair cell development and is also expressed in the outer hair cells (OHCs) of the adult cochlea. The protein is additionally expressed in keratinocytes, the pituitary gland, B-cells and T-cells. [provided by RefSeq]

Full Name

cholinergic receptor, nicotinic, alpha 9

Function

Ionotropic receptor with a probable role in the modulation of auditory stimuli. Agonist binding induces a conformation change that leads to the opening of an ion-conducting channel across the plasma membrane (PubMed:11752216, PubMed:25282151).
The channel is permeable to a range of divalent cations including calcium, the influx of which may activate a potassium current which hyperpolarizes the cell membrane (PubMed:11752216, PubMed:25282151).
In the ear, this may lead to a reduction in basilar membrane motion, altering the activity of auditory nerve fibers and reducing the range of dynamic hearing. This may protect against acoustic trauma. May also regulate keratinocyte adhesion (PubMed:11021840).

Biological Process

Chemical synaptic transmission Source: GO_Central
Detection of mechanical stimulus involved in sensory perception of sound Source: Ensembl
Inner ear morphogenesis Source: Ensembl
Ion transmembrane transport Source: GO_Central
Negative regulation of ERK1 and ERK2 cascade Source: Ensembl
Nervous system process Source: GO_Central
Positive regulation of cytosolic calcium ion concentration Source: MGI
Regulation of membrane potential Source: GO_Central
Signal transduction Source: GO_Central

Cellular Location

Postsynaptic cell membrane; Cell membrane

Topology

Extracellular: 26-237
Helical: 238-262
Helical: 269-287
Helical: 302-323
Cytoplasmic: 324-457
Helical: 458-476

PTM

N-glycosylated.