Based on our results investigating the effect of cotinine on learning and memory consolidation and extinction in vivo and the response of the human a7nAChR to ACh or nicotine, our team was the first to propose that a deficit in the expression and activity of the α7nAChRs was vital in promoting cognitive deficits and brain neurodegeneration during aging and after traumatic experiences (Sabandal et al., 2022). The gene discussed is CHRNA7; the disease is Cognitive impairment.