T-type calcium channels in pulmonary vascular endothelium

Microcirculation. 2006 Dec;13(8):645-56. doi: 10.1080/10739680600930289.

Abstract

The expression of low-voltage-gated T-type calcium channel alpha1G-subunit (Cav3.1) has recently been revealed in pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVECs). In endothelial cells, changes in membrane potential may be caused by a variety of physiological or pathophysiological vascular stimuli. Thus, the characteristic low-voltage range of activation, transient kinetics of inactivation, and conducting continuous Ca2+ entry in a range of low membrane potentials of this channel may confer its temporal and spatial control of cytosolic Ca2 + important for a variety of cellular processes in vascular endothelial cells. The goal of this review is to provide a succinct description of the endothelial cell T-type calcium channel, including its molecular characteristics, biophysical and pharmacological profiles, and involvement in certain endothelial cell functions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium Channels, T-Type / biosynthesis*
  • Calcium Signaling / physiology*
  • Endothelial Cells / metabolism*
  • Endothelium, Vascular / metabolism*
  • Gene Expression Regulation / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Kinetics
  • Lung / blood supply
  • Lung / metabolism*
  • Membrane Potentials / physiology
  • Microcirculation / metabolism

Substances

  • CACNA1G protein, human
  • Calcium Channels, T-Type