Calcium Channel Protein Alpha Subunit (Cav α1 subunit)

The calcium channel protein alpha subunit (α1 subunit) is the pore-forming component of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs). It is responsible for ion selectivity, voltage sensing, gating, and drug binding. There are ten known genes encoding different α1 subunits, classified based on their electrophysiological properties (L-, N-, P/Q-, R-, and T-types). Each subtype has distinct physiological roles. The functional VGCC complex includes α₁, β, and α₂δ subunits. The α₁ subunits are targeted by clinically important drugs like dihydropyridines and gabapentinoids. Mutations can cause neurological disorders.

Other names

Voltage-gated calcium channel alpha subunitVGCC α1 subunitCACNA subunits

Dihydropyridines block L-type calcium channels; Gabapentinoids bind to α₂δ subunits affecting VGCC function