Voltage‐gated calcium channel nanodomains: molecular composition and function
María A. Gandini, Gerald W. Zamponi
Abstract
Voltage‐gated calcium (Ca V ) channels and their regulation by proteins at the synaptic cleft play a critical role in neurotransmission. These interactions fine‐tune the synaptic response through the regulation of Ca 2+ entry into the presynaptic terminal and trigger the fusion of vesicles filled with neurotransmitters and peptides. Regulation of Ca V channel intrinsic properties and their numbers at the active zones shape the timing and strength of synaptic function. Here, we provide an overview of a number of proteins reported to be part of Ca V channel nanodomains at the synaptic cleft and the repercussions of these interactions for Ca V channel trafficking, tethering at the active zone, and regulation of their biophysical properties. We summarize the current state of knowledge by which Ca V channels are regulated at presynaptic sites.