T-type calcium channel as a new therapeutic target for tremor

Cerebellum. 2011 Sep;10(3):563-9. doi: 10.1007/s12311-011-0277-y.

Abstract

Voltage-gated calcium channels play an important role in many physiological and pathological processes. Accumulating studies suggest that the T-type calcium channel is a potential target for the treatment of various neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, insomnia, and neuropathic pain. Here, we highlight recent advances in our understanding of T-type calcium channel regulation and their implications for tremor disorders. Several T-type calcium channel blockers effectively suppressed experimental tremors that have been suggested to originate from either the cerebellum or basal ganglia. Among T-type calcium channel blockers that have been used clinically, the anti-tremor efficacy of zonisamide garnered our attention. Based on both basic and clinical studies, the possibility is emerging that T-type calcium channel blockers that transit into the central nervous system may have therapeutic potentials for tremor disorders.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium Channel Blockers / therapeutic use*
  • Calcium Channels, T-Type / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Tremor / drug therapy*
  • Tremor / metabolism*
  • Tremor / pathology

Substances

  • Calcium Channel Blockers
  • Calcium Channels, T-Type