Presynaptic Ca²⁺ channels: A functional patchwork

A key step in the release of neurotransmitter is the entry of Ca ²⁺ into the presynaptic terminal via voltage-activated Ca ²⁺ channels. N-type and P/Q-type Ca²⁺ channels play a predominant role but, surprisingly, their distribution across presynaptic terminals lacks any apparent order. They form a patchwork: at some terminals only N-type channels contribute to transmitter release and in others only P/Q-type channels contribute, but in many terminals both sub-types are active. The physiological implications of this non-uniform distribution are starting to emerge. Recent studies reveal that G-protein-mediated depression of N-type channels is stronger than that of P/Q-type channels, whereas voltage-dependent relief of inhibition is more pronounced for P/Q-type channels. The patchwork distribution of Ca²⁺ channel subtypes might therefore enable terminal-specific modulation of transmitter release, enhancing the power of synaptic processing.