Calcium channel protein subunit alpha2delta (α2δ)

The calcium channel protein subunit alpha2delta (α2δ) is an auxiliary subunit of voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs). It regulates the trafficking and surface expression of the pore-forming alpha1 subunit of high-voltage activated CaV channels (CaV1 and CaV2 families) and modulates channel biophysical properties. The α₂δ−1 subtype serves as the molecular target for gabapentinoid drugs used for treating neuropathic pain and epilepsy. Mutations or dysregulation in genes encoding certain isoforms have been linked to epilepsy, cerebellar ataxia, and neuropathic pain syndromes.

Other names

Alpha2delta subunitCACNA2D subunitsα₂δAlpha‐₂/Delta proteins

Gabapentinoids (e.g., gabapentin and pregabalin) bind to the α₂δ−1 and α₂δ−2 subunits of voltage-dependent calcium channels, reducing calcium influx and neurotransmitter release.