← Glossary
Gene

CHRNA5

CHRNA5 encodes the alpha-5 subunit of the neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, which assembles with alpha-3 and beta-4 subunits into receptors expressed in brain regions (including the habenulo-interpeduncular pathway) that regulate nicotine reward and aversion. The nonsynonymous variant rs16969968 (Asp398Asn) reduces receptor function, blunting nicotine's aversive signaling and is robustly associated with nicotine dependence and heavier smoking.

Traits CHRNA5 shapes

Markers (rsIDs)

Reference databases

How Biome reads this

Biome's at-home DNA test reads this directly from one saliva sample, alongside 650,000+ other markers.

Biome DNA test

This page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Genetic results describe tendencies and predispositions, not diagnoses. Always consult a licensed clinician before making decisions about your health, medications, or supplements.