Nicotine Up-regulates nAChRs (1 of 2) (VIDEO) Rockefeller University Press This video is under embargo. Please login to access this video. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Caption This video animation shows how nicotine acts as a chaperone for receptors called nAChRs in neurons, promoting their exit from the ER and eventually increasing their abundance at the plasma membrane. Nicotine-mediated activation of nAChRs also depends on the COPI machinery involved in Golgi–ER transport of nAChRs. The findings could help form new strategies for smoking cessation and neuroprotection against Parkinson's disease. Credit Mary O'Reilly, O'Reilly Science Art Usage Restrictions Reporters may freely use these materials in news coverage, with the appropriate credit information. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.