The CHRM2 gene codes for cholinergic receptor muscarinic 2 (CHRM2) [R].
Muscarinic receptors can be activated by muscarine (a compound found in some mushrooms) and acetylcholine (a chemical messenger of the nervous system) [R].
When activated, CHRM2 prevents acetylcholine release. It can [R, R]:
- Lower heart rate
- Promote urination
- Constrict airways
CHRM2 polymorphisms have been linked to [R, R, R, R]:
- Intelligence
- COPD severity
- Asthma
- Depression