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Neuronal voltage-gated calcium channels: structure, function, and dysfunction

Brett A Simms1, Gerald W Zamponi1

  • 1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada.

Neuron
|April 5, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Voltage-gated calcium channels control calcium entry in neurons. Their diverse subtypes are crucial for brain function but also implicated in neurological disorders like epilepsy and pain.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Molecular Biology
  • Physiology

Background:

  • Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) are essential for neuronal function, mediating calcium influx upon depolarization.
  • Diversity in VGCC subtypes arises from multiple α1 subunit genes, ancillary subunits, and alternative splicing.
  • These channels play critical roles in specific neuronal subtypes and subcellular locations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the function, physiology, and pathophysiology of voltage-gated calcium channels.
  • To highlight the structural diversity and functional specialization of these channels in neurons.
  • To discuss the link between VGCC dysfunction and neurological disorders.

Main Methods:

  • This is a review article, synthesizing existing research.
  • Key literature on VGCC structure, function, and disease association was analyzed.
  • Information was gathered on genetic, molecular, and physiological aspects of VGCCs.

Main Results:

  • VGCCs exhibit significant diversity, enabling specialized roles in neuronal signaling.
  • Proper expression and function of VGCCs are vital for normal brain activity.
  • Dysregulation of VGCCs is associated with various neurological conditions.

Conclusions:

  • Voltage-gated calcium channels are fundamental to neuronal physiology.
  • The complexity of VGCCs allows for precise control of calcium signaling.
  • Understanding VGCCs is crucial for developing treatments for neurological disorders such as pain, epilepsy, and migraine.

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