The preliminary target identification and validation results for the α7 nAChR in the retina can be summarized into three main findings: (1) the α7 AChR can be localized to the surface of retinal cells in the mammalian retina, (2) molecular studies support these findings by localizing the α7 nAChR to the RGL (among other locations) of mammals including humans, and (3) pharmacological cell culture studies support the concept that activation of the α7 nAChR on RGCs is neuroprotective and a potential therapeutic target for retinal diseases. The gene discussed is CHRNA7; the disease is Abnormal retinal morphology.