Activity-dependent changes in voltage-dependent calcium currents and transmitter release

Abstract

Voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels are important in the regulation of neuronal structure and function, and as a result, they have received considerable attention. Recent studies have begun to characterize the diversity of their properties and the relationship of this diversity to their various cellular functions. In particular, Ca2+ channels play a prominent role in depolarization-secretion coupling, where the release of neurotransmitter is very sensitive to changes in voltage-dependent Ca2+ currents. An important feature of Ca2+ channels is their regulation by electrical activity. Depolarization can selectively modulate the properties of Ca2+ channel types, thus shaping the response of the neuron to future electrical activity. In this article, we examine the diversity of Ca2+ channels found in vertebrate and invertebrate neurons, and their short- and long-term regulation by membrane potential and Ca2+ influx. Additionally, we consider the extent to which this activity-dependent regulation of Ca2+ currents contributes to the development and plasticity of transmitter releasing properties. In the studies of long-term regulation, we focus on crustacean motoneurons where activity levels, Ca2+ channel properties, and transmitter releasing properties can be followed in identified neurons.