What Role do Nicotinic Receptors Play in Lung Cancer?
Lung cancer is one of the most studied cancers in the context of nicotinic receptors. Nicotine, found in tobacco, can bind to nicotinic receptors, particularly α7nAChR, leading to the activation of signaling pathways that promote cell proliferation and inhibit apoptosis. This provides a mechanistic link between smoking and lung cancer development. Moreover, nicotine can also induce angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, which supports tumor growth.
