Functional expression of a rapidly inactivating neuronal calcium channel
Article Abstract:
A study conducted on the doe-1, a high-voltage-activated (HVA) Ca2+ channel, reveals that it inactivates faster than the other calcium Ca2+ channels, four groups of which have been identified by the differences in their electrophysiological and pharmacological properties. The Ca2+ channels are vital in connecting electrical activity to transmitter release, and in the modulation of membrane excitability and gene expression in vertebrate neurons. The doe-1 block caused by CO-CTX-GVIA is immediately reversible and requires micromolar toxin. The unusual sensitivity to Ni2+ block reveals unique functional properties of doe-1.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1993
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Translocation of calmodulin to the nucleus supports CREB phosphorylation in hippocampal neurons
Article Abstract:
CREB transcription factor activation is believed to have an important role in the formation of long-term memory in certain animal species. Phosphorylation of a serine residue at position 133 of CREB is essential for CREB activation. Brief bursts of activity were found to cause a quick translocation of calmodulin from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. The calmodulin translocation provides a type of cellular communication combining the specificity of local Ca(super2+) signalling with the ability to produce distance action.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1998
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Key clockwork component cloned
Article Abstract:
Brain waves and cardiac pacemakers rely on T-type calcium channels for rhythmic firing. Perez-Reyes and colleagues have cloned an alpha1 subunit that can support classical T-type calcium-channel activity. The Alpha1G subunit has a pseudo-tetrameric structure and signature motifs seen in other calcium-channel alpha1 subunits. It has a low sequence homology suggesting an early evolutionary divergence from other known calcium- and sodium-channel subgroups.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1998
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