Final answer:
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are ionotropic receptors that bind to acetylcholine, leading to the activation of target cells through ion channel opening and depolarization of the postsynaptic membrane.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are a type of ionotropic receptors that bind to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). These receptors are found in the cholinergic synapses of both the autonomic nervous system and the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). When ACh binds to the nicotinic receptor, the receptor undergoes a conformational change, leading to the opening of an ion channel. This allows positive ions to enter the cell, resulting in depolarization of the postsynaptic membrane and the activation of the target cell.