Mice expressing the ADNFLE valine 287 leucine mutation of the Β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunit display increased sensitivity to acute nicotine administration and altered presynaptic nicotinic receptor function

► Mice with a leu to val mutation in the β2 nicotinic receptor subunit were evaluated. ► The mutation reduced β2 nicotinic receptor expression but not mRNA levels. ► Mutant receptors were activated by lower concentrations of ACh or nicotine in vitro. ► The mutation had varying effects on maximal response. ► Mutant and heterozygous mice were more sensitive to nicotine than wild-type mice.