R-type

R-type calcium channel is a type of voltage-gated calcium channel. 'R' stands for 'resistant' to the drugs that are used to block other types of calcium channels. R-type calcium channels are found in the brain and are involved in various functions such as neuronal firing and neurotransmitter release.

Structure

R-type calcium channels are made up of several subunits. The main subunit, α1E, forms the pore through which calcium ions pass. Other subunits, such as β and α2δ, help to regulate the function of the channel.

Function

R-type calcium channels are involved in a variety of functions in the brain. They help to regulate neuronal firing and neurotransmitter release. They are also involved in synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the genes that encode the subunits of R-type calcium channels can lead to various neurological disorders. For example, mutations in the CACNA1E gene, which encodes the α1E subunit, have been associated with epilepsy and cerebellar ataxia.

See also

• Voltage-gated calcium channel
• Calcium channel blocker
• Neurotransmitter

References

R-type Resources
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