Ca_V2.x Channels

Ca_V2.x channels are high-voltage activated calcium channels that are insensitive to blockade by dihydropyridines. There are three members in this family, which all show high expression in the central and peripheral nervous systems, where they mediate neurotransmitter release and are critical to neurotransmission.

Ca_V2.1 channels (P/Q-type) may have a role in Alzheimer's disease, as amyloid-β oligomers are thought to directly regulate Ca²⁺ current through the channel. Mutations in the Ca_V2.1 α₁-subunit have been linked to migraine headaches. Mutations in the Ca_V2.2 (N-type) α₁-subunit have been associated with neuropsychiatric disorders including autism, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Selective blockers of Ca_V2.2 channels are used to treat chronic pain, via intrathecal injection into the spine. Few studies of Ca_V2.3 (R-type) channels have been reported to date.

External sources of pharmacological information for Ca_V2.x Channels :

• BJP Guide

Voltage-gated Calcium Channel Gene Data