T Type VDCC stands for T-type voltage-dependent calcium channel. It refers to a type of calcium channel that plays a crucial role in regulating calcium ion flux in neurons and other excitable cells.
T-type VDCCs are named based on their transient nature and involvement in low-threshold calcium spikes. These channels are responsible for initiating or regulating the action potential firing patterns and are widely expressed in various regions of the central nervous system, as well as in peripheral tissues.
These channels are classified as low-voltage activated calcium channels because they activate at relatively more negative membrane potentials compared to other types of calcium channels. T-type VDCCs are composed of three subunits, the α1G, α1H, or α1I subunit, encoded by the CACNA1G, CACNA1H, and CACNA1I genes, respectively.
Physiologically, T-type VDCCs are involved in diverse cellular processes such as neuronal excitability, pacemaker activity, hormone release, neurotransmitter release modulation, and sensory signal transduction. Their abnormal functioning or dysregulation has been associated with various pathological conditions including epilepsy, neuropathic pain, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiac arrhythmias.
Pharmacologically, T-type VDCCs are potential targets for therapeutic intervention. Modulating the activity of these channels with specific drugs may have clinical applications addressing certain neurological disorders. Researchers continue to study the exact mechanisms and physiological roles of T-type VDCCs to further understand their potential therapeutic relevance.
