Calcium Channels in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells (VSMC Calcium Channels)

Calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are membrane proteins that mediate calcium influx, crucial for contraction, vascular tone, gene expression, and cell proliferation. The primary types are L-type (CaV1.2) and T-type voltage-gated channels, as well as receptor-operated channels. L-type channels are major determinants of arterial constriction and are targets for antihypertensive drugs (CCBs). Altered channel function contributes to hypertension, diabetes-related vascular dysfunction and atherosclerosis. CaV1.2 forms molecular complexes with auxiliary subunits that modulate its function.

Other names

Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels (VGCCs) in VSMCsL-type Calcium Channels (CaV1.2) in VSMCsT-type Calcium Channels in VSMCsReceptor-Operated Calcium Channels in VSMCs

Inhibition of calcium influx through voltage-gated calcium channels, particularly L-type channels, leading to vasodilation.