Pentobarbital inhibition of human recombinant α1A P/Q-type voltage-gated calcium channels involves slow, open channel block

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Pre-synaptic neurotransmitter release is largely dependent on Ca2+ entry through P/Q-type (CaV2.1) voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (PQCCs) at most mammalian, central, fast synapses. Barbiturates are clinical depressants and inhibit pre-synaptic Ca2+ entry. PQCC barbiturate pharmacology is generally unclear, specifically in man. The pharmacology of the barbiturate pentobarbital (PB) in human recombinant α1A PQCCs has been characterized.