Distribution of different types of calcium channels in the brain structures

This study demonstrates that low voltage-activated (LVA) Ca2+ channels and at least five pharmacologically distinct high voltage-activated (HVA) Ca2+ channels exist in most rat CNS neurons, with the exception of cerebellar Purkinje cells. These LVA and HVA Ca2+ channels (including their subtypes) are differentially distributed among various CNS regions. The pharmacological diversity of these channels and their heterogeneous distribution on the nerve cell somata and nerve endings appear relevant in the development of new and region-specific pharmacological agents for clinical use.