Cacna1B Protein is an important component in the neurobiology of neurodegenerative diseases. This page provides detailed information about its structure, function, and role in disease processes.
CACNA1B encodes the alpha-1B subunit of the Cav2.2 voltage-gated calcium channel, also known as the N-type calcium channel[1]. These channels are critical for neurotransmitter release at presynaptic terminals and are important therapeutic targets for pain management and have implications in neurodegenerative diseases[2].
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Protein Name | Voltage-dependent N-type calcium channel subunit alpha-1B |
| Gene | CACNA1B |
| UniProt ID | Q00962 |
| PDB Structures | 6JP5, 6JPA (Cryo-EM structures) |
| Molecular Weight | ~250 kDa |
| Subcellular Localization | Plasma membrane (presynaptic terminals) |
| Protein Family | CaV1 family (high-voltage activated) |
The Cav2.2 channel is a large transmembrane protein consisting of:
Auxiliary subunits (β, α2δ) modulate channel trafficking and properties.
Cav2.2 (N-type) channels are high-voltage activated channels:
| Drug/Approach | Status | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ziconotide (Prialt) | Approved | Conotoxin peptide, blocks N-type channels for severe pain |
| Synthetic conotoxins | Research | NVX-108, other peptide blockers |
| Small molecule inhibitors | Research | State-dependent blockers |
| Gene therapy | Research | Targeting channel expression |
Ongoing research continues to explore the role of this protein in neurodegenerative diseases. Current research directions include:
This protein represents a potential therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disease treatment. Understanding its function and dysfunction is crucial for developing disease-modifying therapies.
The study of Cacna1B Protein has evolved significantly over the past decades. Research in this area has revealed important insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration and continues to drive therapeutic development.
Historical context and key discoveries in this field have shaped our current understanding and will continue to guide future research directions.
Ertel EA, et al. Voltage-gated calcium channel genes and their mutations. Cell Calcium. 2005;37(6):493-502. PMID:15876588 ↩︎
Catterall WA. Voltage-gated calcium channels. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol. 2011;3(8):a003947. PMID:21746798 ↩︎
Simms BA, Zamponi GW. Neuronal voltage-gated calcium channels. Neuron. 2014;82(1):24-45. PMID:24698266 ↩︎