This gene is a member of the ligand-gated ionic channel family and nicotinic acetylcholine receptor gene superfamily. It encodes a plasma membrane protein that forms homo- or hetero-oligomeric divalent cation channels. This protein is involved in cochlea hair cell development and is also expressed in the outer hair cells (OHCs) of the adult cochlea. [provided by RefSeq, Feb 2012],function:Ionotropic receptor with a probable role in the modulation of auditory stimuli. Agonist binding may induce an extensive change in conformation that affects all subunits and leads to opening of an ion-conducting channel across the plasma membrane. The channel is permeable to a range of divalent cations including calcium, the influx of which may activate a potassium current which hyperpolarizes the cell membrane. In the ear, this may lead to a reduction in basilar membrane motion, altering the activity of auditory nerve fibers and reducing the range of dynamic hearing. This may protect against acoustic trauma. May also regulate keratinocyte adhesion.,miscellaneous:The hetero-oligomeric receptor composed of CHRNA9 and CHRNA10 has an atypical pharmacological profile, binding several non-nicotinic ligands including strychnine (a glycine receptor antagonist) and atropine (a muscarinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist).,similarity:Belongs to the ligand-gated ionic channel (TC 1.A.9) family.,subunit:Can form homo- or hetero-oligomeric channels in conjunction with CHRNA10. The native outer hair cell receptor may be composed of CHRNA9-CHRNA10 hetero-oligomers.,tissue specificity:Expressed in cochlea, keratinocytes, pituitary gland, B-cells and T-cells.,
