Contributions of T-type calcium channel isoforms to neuronal firing

Low voltage-activated (LVA) T-type calcium channels play critical roles in the excitability of many cell types and are a focus of research aimed both at understanding the physiological basis of calcium channel-dependent signaling and the underlying pathophysiology associated with hyperexcitability disorders such as epilepsy. These channels play a critical role towards neuronal firing in both conducting calcium ions during action potentials and also in switching neurons between distinct modes of firing. In this review the properties of the Ca(V)3.1, Ca(V)3.2 and Ca(V)3.3 T-type channel isoforms are discussed in relation to their individual contributions to action potentials during burst and tonic firing states as well their roles in switching between firing states.