Neuroprotection by donepezil against glutamate excitotoxicity involves stimulation of α7 nicotinic receptors and internalization of NMDA receptors

Abstract

Decreased glutamate toxicity through down-regulation of NMDA receptors, following stimulation of alpha7 nAChRs, could be another mechanism underlying neuroprotection by donepezil, in addition to up-regulating the PI3K-Akt cascade or defensive system.