Psychostimulants, L-type calcium channels, kinases, and phosphatases

Neuroscientist. 2005 Oct;11(5):494-502. doi: 10.1177/1073858405278236.

Abstract

There is growing evidence for the role of voltage-gated L-type Ca2+ channels in mediating aspects of the addictive properties of psychostimulants. L-type Ca2+ channels activate Ca2+ second-messenger pathways that regulate protein phosphorylation and thereby activation of target gene expression. Here the authors will review recent progress in our understanding of L-type Ca2+ channel-activated signal transduction pathways that contribute to molecular neuroadaptations evident following acute and chronic exposures to psychostimulants.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium Channels, L-Type / chemistry
  • Calcium Channels, L-Type / physiology*
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Models, Molecular
  • Models, Neurological
  • Nucleus Accumbens / drug effects
  • Nucleus Accumbens / physiology
  • Phosphoric Monoester Hydrolases / metabolism*
  • Phosphotransferases / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction / drug effects*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / metabolism
  • Substance-Related Disorders / physiopathology
  • Ventral Tegmental Area / drug effects
  • Ventral Tegmental Area / physiology

Substances

  • Calcium Channels, L-Type
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants
  • Phosphotransferases
  • Phosphoric Monoester Hydrolases