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Modulation Of Neuronal R-Type Ca2+ Channels (Cav2.3) By G Protein-Coupled Receptors, Lauren S. Page
Modulation Of Neuronal R-Type Ca2+ Channels (Cav2.3) By G Protein-Coupled Receptors, Lauren S. Page
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Neuronal R-type Ca2+ channels (Cav2.3) are expressed at high concentrations within the cortex, hippocampus and striatal regions of the brain, where they participate in neuronal excitability and synaptic signaling. This pattern of expression may signify a connection between Cav2.3 channel function and neurological disorders such as Parkinson's Disease (PD) and Huntington's Disease (HD). Both of these disorders are caused by inadequate secretion of the neurotransmitter dopamine within the striatum. The first step in characterizing the potential importance of Cav2.3 in PD and HD is to examine its modulation by G-protein-coupled dopamine receptors. Specifically, …