Alpha-2 voltage-dependent calcium channel (IPR013680) A family of molecules known as voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels (VDCCs) enables cells to connect intracellular Ca2+ signaling to electrical activity. Depolarizing signals, like action potentials, open and close these channels. This lets Ca2+ ions enter neurons along steep electrochemical gradients, creating short-lived Ca2+ signals inside cells. Ca2+ influx, occurring concurrently at various cellular locations, regulates several neuronal processes, including transmitter release, gene transcription, and metabolism. The pore is made up of the alpha-1 subunit, which has the conductive pore, voltage sensor, and gating apparatus. It also has known channel regulatory sites for second messengers, drugs, and toxins.