Calciumkanava
Calciumkanava, or the calcium channel, refers to a type of protein embedded in cell membranes that facilitates the movement of calcium ions (Ca²⁺) across the membrane. These channels play a critical role in various physiological processes, including muscle contraction, neurotransmitter release, hormone secretion, and cell signaling. Calciumkanavat are classified into several types based on their structure, activation mechanisms, and selectivity for calcium ions.
The most well-known classes of calciumkanavat include voltage-gated, receptor-operated, and second-messenger-gated channels. Voltage-gated calciumkanavat open in
Calciumkanavat are essential in excitable cells, such as neurons and muscle cells, where they help maintain
Structurally, calciumkanavat are composed of multiple subunits, often arranged as tetramers or pentamers, with a central