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Updated: Jul 8, 2026
11:32
Determination of the Relative Cell Surface and Total Expression of Recombinant Ion Channels Using Flow Cytometry
Published on: September 28, 2016
Calcium channelopathies: voltage-gated calcium channels
1Michael Smith Laboratorie, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T1Z4.
Sub-Cellular Biochemistry
|January 16, 2008
Summary
Voltage-gated calcium channels are crucial for many bodily functions. Genetic changes affecting these channels can lead to developmental, physiological, and behavioral issues, suggesting new drug targets.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) are essential for numerous physiological processes.
- Understanding their molecular and cellular roles has advanced significantly.
- Pathophysiological roles are increasingly comprehended through channelopathies and gene deletions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the contributions of VGCCs to physiological and pathophysiological processes.
- To highlight the impact of genetic alterations on VGCC function.
- To explore potential therapeutic strategies based on VGCC dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on calcium currents and channelopathies.
- Analysis of data from naturally occurring channelopathies in humans and mice.
- Examination of findings from targeted gene deletion studies.
Main Results:
- Genetic alterations in VGCCs can subtly perturb channel function.
- These perturbations impact diverse mammalian developmental, physiological, and behavioral functions.
- Gain-of-function channelopathies indicate potential for targeted antagonist therapies.
Conclusions:
- Small changes in VGCC function due to genetic factors have widespread effects.
- Channelopathies, particularly gain-of-function types, offer insights into therapeutic interventions.
- Development of selective calcium channel antagonists is a promising therapeutic avenue.
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