Voltage-dependent L-type calcium channel alpha-1 subunit (None (the primary abbreviation for family members is "Cav1.x", e.g., Cav1.2, Cav1.3))

The **voltage-dependent L-type calcium channel alpha-1 subunit** is the main pore-forming and voltage-sensing protein subunit of L-type calcium channels (Cav1.x family) found in muscle, heart, endocrine, and neuronal tissues[1][4][3]. It is a large transmembrane protein organized into four homologous domains each with six transmembrane segments, comprising the channel’s selectivity filter, voltage sensor, gating mechanism, and drug binding sites[1][3][4][2]. The alpha-1 subunit is essential for physiologic calcium influx upon membrane depolarization, driving key processes such as muscle contraction, hormone/neurotransmitter release, and gene expression. It requires assembly with accessory beta and alpha-2/delta (and sometimes gamma) subunits for surface expression and full channel function[4][3]. It is the molecular target for multiple classes of calcium channel blocker drugs—core agents in cardiovascular therapeutics[1][4]. Genetic variants or dysregulation of the alpha-1 subunit underlie a variety of diseases, including arrhythmias, hypertension, congenital heart defects, neuropsychiatric disorders, and certain forms of deafness[1][4].

Other names

L-type calcium channel alpha-1 subunitCav1.x alpha-1 subunitAlpha-1D subunit (for Cav1.3)CACNA1C (Cav1.2, gene symbol)CACNA1D (Cav1.3, gene symbol)Dihydropyridine receptor alpha-1 subunitL-VDCC alpha 1 subunit

Blockade of L-type calcium channel current; Inhibition of voltage-dependent calcium influx; Modulation of cardiac contractility and vascular tone; Suppression of neurotransmitter/hormone secretion.