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Mutagenesis and Functional Analysis of Ion Channels Heterologously Expressed in Mammalian Cells
Published on: October 1, 2010
Analysis of calcium channels by conditional mutagenesis
S Moosmang1, T Kleppisch, J Wegener
1Institut für Pharmakologie und Toxikologie, TU München, Biedersteiner Str. 29, 80802 München, Germany.
Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology
|January 6, 2007
Summary
Conditional transgenic mouse models reveal crucial roles for calcium (Ca2+) channels in regulating physiological processes. These models offer new insights into how L-type and T-type Ca2+ channels impact cardiovascular function, hormone secretion, and neurological processes.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Cytosolic calcium concentration (Ca2+) is vital for numerous cellular functions.
- Cardiac L-type Ca2+ channels (Ca(v)1.2) are key regulators of Ca2+ entry.
- Ca2+ channels interact with other voltage-activated channels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vivo functions of Ca2+ channels using conditional transgenic mouse models.
- To elucidate the roles of L-type and T-type Ca2+ channels in various biological systems.
Main Methods:
- Development and analysis of conditional transgenic mouse models.
- Phenotypic characterization of mice with altered Ca2+ channel function.
Main Results:
- Conditional mouse models provided novel insights into Ca2+ channel function.
- Demonstrated the involvement of L-type and T-type Ca2+ channels in blood pressure regulation.
- Highlighted the role of Ca2+ channels in smooth muscle contractility, insulin secretion, cardiac function, sleep, learning, and memory.
Conclusions:
- Conditional transgenic mice are powerful tools for studying Ca2+ channel physiology.
- L-type and T-type Ca2+ channels are critical mediators of cellular signaling with broad physiological impact.
- Ca2+ channel function is essential for maintaining homeostasis across multiple organ systems.
