
Cav channels
Cav channels, or voltage-gated calcium channels, are specialized proteins located in cell membranes. They open in response to changes in electrical voltage across the membrane, allowing calcium ions to enter the cell. This entry is crucial for various processes such as muscle contraction, neurotransmitter release in nerves, and hormone secretion. Think of Cav channels as gates that open when the cell’s electrical state shifts, letting calcium in to trigger needed biological actions. Their precise regulation is essential for normal cell function and communication within the body.