Voltage-sensitive calcium channels (VSCC) mediate the entry of calcium ions into excitable cells and are also involved in a variety of calcium-dependent processes, including muscle contraction, hormone or neurotransmitter release, gene expression, cell motility, cell division and cell death. This alpha-1B subunit gives rise to N-type calcium currents. N-type calcium channels belong to the ‘high-voltage activated’ (HVA) group. They are involved in pain signaling. Calcium channels containing alpha-1B subunit may play a role in directed migration of immature neurons. Mediates Ca(2+) release probability at hippocampal neuronal soma and synaptic terminals (By similarity).
