Novel mechanism of voltage-gated N-type (Cav2.2) calcium channel inhibition revealed through α-conotoxin Vc1.1 activation of the GABA(B) receptor.

Neuronal voltage-gated N-type (Cav2.2) calcium channels are expressed throughout the nervous system and regulate neurotransmitter release and hence synaptic transmission. They are predominantly modulated via G protein-coupled receptor activated pathways, and the well characterized Gβγ subunits inhibit Cav2.

γ-Aminobutyric acid type B (GABAB) receptor expression is needed for inhibition of N-type (Cav2.2) calcium channels by analgesic α-conotoxins.

α-Conotoxins Vc1.1 and RgIA are small peptides isolated from the venom of marine cone snails. They have effective anti-nociceptive actions in rat models of neuropathic pain.

Are calcifying matrix vesicles in atherosclerotic lesions of cellular origin?

Over recent years, the role of matrix vesicles in the initial stages of arterial calcification has been recognized. Matrix calcifying vesicles have been isolated from atherosclerotic arteries and the biochemical composition of calcified vesicles has been studied. No studies have yet been carried out to examine the fine structure of matrix vesicles in order to visualize the features of the consequent stages of their calcification in arteries.