An effective prediction pharmacophore model (RMS = 0.634, Correl = 0.893, Weight = 1.463, Config = 11.940) was success-fully obtained by 3D-QSAR based on a series of nAChR (nicotinic acetylcholine receptors) agonists, which consists of a hydrogen-bonding acceptor, a hydrogen-bond donor, a hydrophobic aliphatic and a hydrophobic aromatic centre. This pharmacophore modelmay provide theoretical basis for designation and development of higher active insecticides.2008 Xiu Lian Ju. Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Chinese Chemical Society. All rights reserved.