CHRNA6 (α6) is an α subunit of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), encoded by the CHRNA6 gene on chromosome 8. It assembles into pentameric ligand-gated cation channels permeable to Na⁺ and Ca²⁺, often clustered with CHRNB3. It is restrictively expressed mainly in midbrain dopaminergic neurons, noradrenergic neurons and visual system, modulating nicotine-triggered dopamine release. CHRNA6 polymorphisms link to nicotine and alcohol dependence. It participates in reward circuits and is implicated in Parkinson's disease, serving as a promising target for anti-addiction therapeutics.