Analysis of calcium channels by conditional mutagenesis

Handb Exp Pharmacol. 2007:(178):469-90. doi: 10.1007/978-3-540-35109-2_19.

Abstract

Ca2+ influx through various ion channels is an important determinant of the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration, which plays a pivotal role in countless cellular processes. The cardiac L-type Ca2+ channel, Ca(v)1.2, represents a major pathway for Ca2+ entry and is in many cells expressed together with other high- and low-voltage-activated Ca2+ channels. This article will focus on the use of conditional transgenic mouse models to clarify the roles of Ca2+ channels in several biological systems. The phenotypes of conditional Ca2+ channel transgenic mice have provided novel, and often unexpected, insights into the in vivo function of L-type and T-type Ca2+ channels as mediators of signaling between cell membrane and intracellular processes in blood pressure regulation, smooth muscle contractility, insulin secretion, cardiac function, sleep, learning, and memory.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium Channels / genetics
  • Calcium Channels / metabolism*
  • Gene Deletion
  • Insulin / metabolism
  • Insulin Secretion
  • Muscle, Smooth / metabolism
  • Mutagenesis*
  • Nervous System / metabolism

Substances

  • Calcium Channels
  • Insulin