Both α6- and β3- containing receptors have been found to have a significant role in dopaminergic neurotransmission, thus contributing to reward and reinforcement of behavior (Cui et al, 2003). Receptors containing α6β2β3 as well as α6α4β2β3 containing receptors in the striatum mediate αConotoxin MII-sensitive dopamine release. In contrast, α6β2 containing receptors in the superior colliculus seem to be involved in GABA release (Champtiaux et al, 2003; Gotti et al, 2006; Salminen et al, 2004). The β3 subunit is believed to be important for assembly and stability of α6 containing nAChRs (Cui et al, 2003).
