Calcium Channel (CaV)

A calcium channel is a type of ion channel that selectively allows the passage of calcium ions (Ca²⁺) across cell membranes. These channels are crucial for various physiological processes, including muscle contraction, neurotransmitter release, hormone secretion, gene transcription, and the regulation of cardiac and neuronal excitability. Dysfunction or abnormal regulation of calcium channels is implicated in several diseases, including cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, and neurological disorders. Calcium channel blockers are widely used drugs that inhibit L-type VGCCs to treat hypertension and certain arrhythmias by reducing contractility and vascular tone.

Other names

Voltage-Gated Calcium ChannelsVGCCsL-type calcium channelsP/Q-type calcium channelsN-type calcium channelsR-type calcium channelsT-type calcium channelsIP₃ receptorsRyanodine receptorsTwo-pore channels

Inhibition of L-type VGCCs, reducing contractility and vascular tone.