The Sound of Evolution
Nicotine
Mechanism of action:
Nicotine is a tobacco alkaloid derivative. Nicotine primarily acts on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. It mimics acetylcholine and binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, allowing sodium and calcium ions to enter neurons and causing membrane depolarization. Nicotine also promotes the release of multiple neurotransmitters, including dopamine, norepinephrine, acetylcholine, serotonin (5-HT), glutamate, and endorphins. With long-term exposure, nicotine paradoxically increases the expression of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
Reference(s):
1. Nolley EP et al. (2007). Adolescent reward system perseveration due to nicotine: studies with methylphenidate. Neurotoxicol Teratol.
2. de Leon J et al. (2002). Schizophrenia and tobacco smoking: a replication study in another US psychiatric hospital. Schizophr Res.
3. de Leon J et al. (1995). Schizophrenia and smoking: an epidemiological survey in a state hospital. Am J Psychiatry.