Neuronal voltage-gated calcium channels play a pivotal role in the conversion of electrical signals into calcium entry into nerve endings that is required for the release of neurotransmitters. They are under the control of a number of cellular signaling pathways that serve to fine tune synaptic activities, including G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and the opioid system. Besides modulating channel activity via activation of second messengers, GPCRs also physically associate with calcium channels to regulate their function and expression at the plasma membrane. In this mini review, we discuss the mechanisms by which calcium channels are regulated by classical opioid and nociceptin receptors. We highlight the importance of this regulation in the control of neuronal functions and their implication in the development of disease conditions. Finally, we present recent literature concerning the use of novel μ-opioid receptor/nociceptin receptor modulators and discuss their use as potential drug candidates for the treatment of pain.
- MeSH
- agonisté vápníkových kanálů farmakologie MeSH
- blokátory kalciových kanálů farmakologie MeSH
- lidé MeSH
- neurony účinky léků fyziologie MeSH
- opioidní analgetika farmakologie MeSH
- receptory opiátové agonisté fyziologie MeSH
- vápníková signalizace účinky léků fyziologie MeSH
- vápníkové kanály fyziologie MeSH
- zvířata MeSH
- Check Tag
- lidé MeSH
- zvířata MeSH
- Publikační typ
- časopisecké články MeSH
- přehledy MeSH
