Cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channels - Molecular diversity, structure, and cellular functions

Cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels comprise an extended family of cation channels that are directly activated by the binding of cGMP or cAMP. These channels are abundantly expressed in visual and olfactory neurons, where they play important roles in sensory signal transduction. Recent studies have shown that CNG channels ave also present in many nonsensory cell types. The major function of CNG channels probably is to provide a cGMP/cAMP-mediated pathway for influx of calcium. This review describes recent progress in our understanding of the genetic diversity, the molecular determinants of channel function, and the physiological roles of CNG channels. (C) 1996, Elsevier Science Inc.