Calcium Ion Channel (CaCC)

Calcium ion channels are membrane proteins that selectively allow the passage of calcium ions (Ca²⁺) across cell membranes. They play a critical role in numerous physiological processes, including muscle contraction, neurotransmitter and hormone secretion, gene expression, cell growth, and signal transduction. These channels are found in various cell types such as neurons, muscle cells (cardiac, skeletal, smooth), endocrine cells, and more. Calcium channels can be broadly classified into voltage-gated and ligand-gated/store-operated types. They are important drug targets for conditions like hypertension and arrhythmias, but dysregulation can lead to various diseases.

Other names

Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels (VGCCs)L-type calcium channelsP/Q-type calcium channelsN-type calcium channelsR-type calcium channelsT-type calcium channelsLigand-Gated Calcium ChannelsStore-Operated Calcium ChannelsIP₃ receptorsRyanodine receptorsTwo-pore channelsOrai channels

Channel blockade/activation