Abstract
There are many different calcium channels expressed in the mammalian nervous system, but N-type and P/Q-type calcium channels appear to dominate the presynaptic terminals of central and peripheral neurons. The neurotransmitter-induced modulation of these channels can result in alteration of synaptic transmission. This review highlights the mechanisms by which neurotransmitters affect the activity of N-type and P/Q-type calcium channels. The inhibition of these channels by voltage-dependent and voltage-independent mechanisms is emphasized because of the wealth of information available on the intracellular mediators and on the effect of these pathways on the single-channel gating.
Publication types
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
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Review
MeSH terms
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Action Potentials / physiology
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Animals
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Calcium / metabolism*
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Calcium Channels / physiology*
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Calcium Channels, N-Type / physiology
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Calcium Channels, P-Type / physiology
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Calcium Channels, Q-Type / physiology
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Calcium Signaling / physiology*
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Cell Membrane Permeability / physiology
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Homeostasis / physiology
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Humans
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Ion Channel Gating / physiology*
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Membrane Potentials / physiology*
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Neural Inhibition / physiology
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Neurons / physiology*
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Neurotransmitter Agents / metabolism*
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Porosity
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Synaptic Transmission / physiology
Substances
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Calcium Channels
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Calcium Channels, N-Type
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Calcium Channels, P-Type
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Calcium Channels, Q-Type
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Neurotransmitter Agents
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Calcium