sAlpha-7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor: targeting the interplay between inflammation, renin-angiotensin aldosterone system, and nervous system for the novel treatment of heart failure.

Jordan Swiderski; Laura Kate Gadanec; Stephen Hearth; Benjamin Darcy Rowlands; Andrew James Murphy; Vasso Apostolopoulos; Anthony Zulli
Abstract
The incidence and prevalence of heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) continue to rise, yet evidence-based therapy remains limited. Due to the complexity of HFpEF pathology, traditional HF medication has shown inconsistent efficacy in improving clinical outcomes and reducing morbidity. Therefore, highlighting the urgent need for novel interventions. The αlpha-7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) is a central mediator of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway and has emerged as a promising therapeutic target in various conditions, such as sepsis, arthritis, metabolic dysfunction, and atherosclerosis. This review aims to examine the emerging therapeutic potential of α7nAChR in HF and HFpEF pathology, focusing on its protective role in modulating the complex interplay between systemic and cardiovascular inflammation, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activation, neurocardiac signaling and metabolic dysfunction.
Journal FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
ISSN 1663-9812
Published 01 Jan 2026
Volume 17
Issue
Pages 1756039
DOI 10.3389/fphar.2026.1756039
Type Journal Article | Review
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