Voltage-dependent L-type calcium channel subunit alpha-1C (CaV1.2 or CACNA1C (for the gene)/CaV1.2 (for the protein))

The voltage-dependent L-type calcium channel subunit alpha-1C (also known as CaV1.2, encoded by the CACNA1C gene) is a pore-forming subunit of the L-type calcium channel complex. This protein is responsible for mediating the influx of calcium ions into cardiac, smooth, and some neuronal cells upon membrane depolarization, triggering critical processes such as muscle contraction, hormone secretion, and gene expression. It is the principal target for the clinically important class of calcium channel-blocking drugs used primarily in treating cardiovascular disorders. The L-type calcium channel complex is composed of multiple subunits, but the alpha-1C subunit forms the channel's core, determines its biophysical properties, and binds most drugs. Dysfunction or genetic variants of this protein can play roles in some neurological and cardiac diseases[2][5][1].

Other names

CaV1.2CACNA1C (gene name)L-type calcium channel alpha-1C subunitL-type voltage-dependent calcium channel alpha-1 subunit

Blockade or inhibition of calcium influx by binding to the channel’s alpha-1 subunit, thereby reducing contractility and conduction in cardiac and smooth muscle. Modulation of action potential duration and amplitude in excitable tissues. Decreased aldosterone secretion by endocrine cells.