Subunit of the non-synaptic neuronal acetylcholine receptor (AChR), which may play a role in chemotaxis towards choline. After binding choline or 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. The functional receptor is a heteromer of deg-3 and des-2. Interacts with ric-3; which is required for proper receptor folding. Enriched in the sensory endings of sensory neurons. Belongs to the ligand-gated ion channel (TC 1.A.9) family. Acetylcholine receptor (TC 1.A.9.1) subfamily.