Calcium channels

Calcium Channels

Calcium channels (pronunciation: /ˈkalsiəm ˈtʃanəls/) are a type of ion channel that allow calcium ions to pass through the cell membrane.

Etymology

The term "calcium" comes from the Latin calx, meaning 'lime', and "channel" comes from the Old French chanel, meaning 'pipe' or 'tube'.

Function

Calcium channels play a crucial role in the electrophysiology of neuronal cells. They are responsible for the influx of calcium ions into the cell, which triggers a range of cellular processes such as muscle contraction, neurotransmission, and cell division.

Types

There are several types of calcium channels, including:

• Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs)
• L-type calcium channels
• P/Q type calcium channels
• N-type calcium channels
• R-type calcium channels
• T-type calcium channels

Each type of calcium channel has a unique role in the function of the cell and is characterized by its voltage dependence and the specific drugs to which it is sensitive.

Related Terms

• Ion channels
• Cell membrane
• Electrophysiology
• Neurons
• Muscle contraction
• Neurotransmission
• Cell division
• Voltage-gated calcium channels
• L-type calcium channels
• P/Q type calcium channels
• N-type calcium channels
• R-type calcium channels
• T-type calcium channels

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Calcium channels
• Wikipedia's article - Calcium channels

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