Cholinergic receptor subtypes and their role in cognition, emotion, and vigilance control: an overview of preclinical and clinical findings

Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2011 May;215(2):205-29. doi: 10.1007/s00213-010-2153-8. Epub 2011 Jan 8.

Abstract

Rationale: The cholinergic system has long been linked to cognitive processes. Two main classes of acetylcholine (ACh) receptors exist in the human brain, namely muscarinic and nicotinic receptors, of which several subtypes occur.

Objectives: This review seeks to provide an overview of previous findings on the influence of cholinergic receptor manipulations on cognition in animals and humans, with particular emphasis on the role of selected cholinergic receptor subtypes. Furthermore, the involvement of these receptor subtypes in the regulation of emotion and brain electrical activity as measured by electroencephalography (EEG) shall be addressed since these domains are considered to be important modulators of cognitive functioning.

Results: In regard to cognition, the muscarinic receptor subtypes have been implicated mainly in memory functions, but have also been linked to attentional processes. The nicotinic α7 receptor subtype is involved in working memory, whereas the α4β2* subtype has been linked to tests of attention. Both muscarinic and nicotinic cholinergic mechanisms play a role in modulating brain electrical activity. Nicotinic receptors have been strongly associated with the modulation of depression and anxiety.

Conclusions: Cholinergic receptor manipulations have an effect on cognition, emotion, and brain electrical activity as measured by EEG. Changes in cognition can result from direct cholinergic receptor manipulation or from cholinergically induced changes in vigilance or affective state.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arousal / physiology*
  • Brain / metabolism*
  • Cognition / physiology*
  • Electroencephalography
  • Emotions / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Learning / physiology
  • Mood Disorders / metabolism
  • Receptors, Cholinergic / classification
  • Receptors, Cholinergic / physiology*

Substances

  • Receptors, Cholinergic