After binding acetylcholine, the AChR responds by an extensive change in conformation that affects all subunits and leads to opening of an ion-conducting channel across the plasma membrane. Neuronal AChR is composed of two different types of subunits: alpha and beta. Alpha-3 subunit can be combined to beta-2 or beta-4 to give rise to functional receptors. Interacts with RIC3; which is required for proper folding and assembly. Interacts with LYPD6. The heteropentamer alpha-3-beta-2 interacts with alpha-conotoxins ImI, ImII, PnIA, GID and MII (PubMed:15609996, PubMed:15929983). Belongs to the ligand-gated ion channel (TC 1.A.9) family. Acetylcholine receptor (TC 1.A.9.1) subfamily. Alpha-3/CHRNA3 sub-subfamily.