Voltage ‐gated calcium channels in genetic epilepsies

Voltage-gated calcium channels are abundant in the central nervous system and serve a broad spectrum of functions. Ca2+ ions act as one of the main connections in excitation –transcription, excitation–contraction and excitation–exocytosis coupling, including synaptic transmission. In recent years, many genes encoding voltage-gated calcium channel subunits have been associated with epilepsy. This review sums up the current state of knowledge on disease mechanisms a nd provides guidance on disease-specific therapies where applicable. AbstractVoltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) are abundant in the central nervous system and serve a broad spectrum of functions, either directly in cellular excitability or indirectly to regulate Ca2+ homeostasis. Ca2+ ions act as one of the main connections in excitation –transcription coupling, muscle contraction and excitation–exocytosis coupling, including synaptic transmission. In recent years, many genes encoding VGCCs main α or additional auxiliary subunits have been associated with epilepsy. This review sums up the current state of knowledge on disease m echanisms and provides guidance on disease-specific therapies where applicable.

Source: Journal of Neurochemistry - October 12, 2023 Category: Neuroscience Authors: Robert J. Lauerer, Holger Lerche Tags: REVIEW Source Type: research