Multiple Types of Neuronal Calcium Channels and Their Selective Modulation.

Voltage-gated Ca2+ channels control the entry of Ca2+ ions across the surface membrane of neurons and other cells and thereby influence electrical activity and diverse cellular responses. Here we summarize efforts at classifying multiple types of Ca2+ channels according to differences in their gating, ionic conductance and pharmacology. The distribution of Ca2+ channel types among different cells and their selective modulation by neurochemicals and drugs is briefly reviewed.