Differential expression of T-type calcium channels in P/Q-type calcium channel mutant mice with ataxia and absence epilepsy.

Mutations in P/Q-type calcium channels generate common phenotypes in mice and humans, which are characterized by ataxia, paroxysmal dyskinesia, and absence seizures. Subsequent functional changes of T-type calcium channels in thalamus are observed in P/Q-type calcium channel mutant mice and these changes play important roles in generation of absence seizures. However, the changes in T-type calcium channel function and/or expression in the cerebellum, which may be related to movement disorders, are still unknown.