Translation of exogenous messenger RNA coding for nicotinic acetylcholine receptors produces functional receptors in Xenopus oocytes.

Messenger RNA extracted from the electric organ of Torpedo was injected into Xenopus oocytes. This led to the synthesis and incorporation of functional acetylcholine receptors into the membrane of the oocyte. When activated by acetylcholine these Torpedo acetylcholine receptors in the oocyte membrane opened channels whose ionic permeability resembled that of nicotinic receptors in other cells.