Voltage-dependent R-type calcium channel alpha-1E subunit (CaV2.3)

The voltage-dependent R-type calcium channel is an ion channel responsible for mediating calcium entry into excitable cells, such as neurons and muscle cells, upon membrane depolarization[1][2][3][4][6][7]. This channel is encoded by the CACNA1E gene and forms the pore of the channel as the alpha-1E subunit (CaV2.3)[7]. R-type channels are a subtype of high-voltage-activated calcium channels, characterized by their pharmacological resistance to blockers of other subtypes (L-, N-, P/Q-type). They activate at relatively depolarized potentials and are important for neurotransmission, synaptic plasticity, and the regulation of diverse intracellular processes including gene transcription, enzymatic activity, and cell excitability[1][2][3][6]. In the nervous system, they contribute to burst firing, dendritic calcium signaling, and certain forms of synaptic transmission. Dysfunction or aberrant regulation of CaV2.3 channels has been implicated in neurological and cardiovascular disease, making them potential therapeutic targets, though clinical exploitation has been limited by the lack of highly selective drugs[6][7].

Other names

Voltage-gated R-type calcium channelR-type calcium channelCACNA1E (gene symbol)CaV2.3Voltage-sensitive calcium channel alpha-1E subunit

Blockade by peptide toxins (e.g. SNX-482 blocks the pore and inhibits calcium influx) - Inhibition by divalent cations (e.g. Ni^2+^, Cd^2+^) - Modulation via phosphorylation and cellular signaling pathways