Localization of mRNA for CHRNA7 in human fetal brain

THE aim of this study was to determine the regional distribution in situ of the mRNA for the alpha 7 subunit of the neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine r eceptor in human fetal brain. We found high levels of alpha 7 gene expressi on in nuclei that receive sensory information, such as those of the neocort ex and hippocampus, the thalamic nuclei, the reticular thalamic nucleus, th e pontine nuclei and the superior olive complex. These data support a possi ble regulatory function for alpha 7-containing receptors in sensory process ing, which may be involved in the pathological physiology of schizophrenia and autism. Early alpha 7 gene expression is also consistent with a morphog enetic role for alpha 7 receptors in central nervous system development. Ne uroReport 10:2223-2227 (C) 1999 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.