The long and short of PKC modulation of the L-type calcium channel

L-type calcium channel (LTCC) function is critical for electrical and cellular signaling in a diverse range of cell types. In cardiac muscle LTCC function (I Ca,L) provides trigger Ca 2+ for Ca2+-induced Ca release, and ICa,L kinetics is a critical determinant of action potential duration.1 LTCC blockade is an effective antihypertensive regimen, likely owing to contributions of ICa,L in vascular smooth muscle for maintenance of vasotone. Cardiac and vascular smooth muscle finely grade function. In part, precise regulation of ICa,L contributes to such graded contraction. Channels News & Views