Emerging roles for α2δ subunits in calcium channel function and synaptic connectivity.

William Christopher Risher, Cagla Eroglu

Journal: Current opinion in neurobiology 2020;63():162-169

PMID: 32521436

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Abstract

Central nervous system function requires the proper formation and function of synapses. The α2δ auxiliary subunits of voltage-gated calcium channels have emerged as regulators of a number of critical events associated with regulation of synaptic function, including channel trafficking and localization, as well as the initial establishment of synaptic structures. In this review, we will discuss some of these recent studies which have uncovered novel mechanisms for α2δ function at the synapse, including the regulation of calcium channel α1 subunit specificity and the promotion of dendritic spine growth. Moreover, we will cover recent advances that have been made in understanding the consequences of aberrant α2δ signaling in injury and disease.

Address: Department of Biomedical Sciences, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25705, United States. Electronic address: [email protected].; Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States; Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, United States; Duke Institute for Brain Sciences (DIBS), Durham, NC 27710, United States; Regeneration Next Initiative, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, United States.

DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2020.04.007

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MeSH Terms: Calcium, Calcium Channels, Protein Subunits, Protein Transport, Synapses