Neuronal control of localized inflammation through expressed nicotinic acetylcholine receptors: a study carried out in mice.

Introduction: Although the local inflammatory reactions are known to be regulated through cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathways, the exact subtypes of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors involved in neuroimmune modulation are not well identified.

Objectives: Immunohistochemical localisation of a1 subunit of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (a1nAChR) in sites of localised inflammation induced by injecting turpentine to the hind limbs of Balb/C mice.

Methods: Localised inflammation and subsequent development of sterile abscesses was induced by injecting sterile turpentine subcutaneously into thighs of Balb/C mice.