Induction of T-type calcium channel Cav3.2 expression by zinc via MTF-1 promoter activation

Rationale: Brain neurons contain substantial amounts of Zn2+, which plays multiple roles in cellular functions. Whereas the release of Zn2+ into the interstitium reportedly modulate various neurotransmitter receptors and ion channels, only little is known about the effects of intracellular Zn2+ (Zn2+_in) on transcription of genes critical for neuronal excitability. Methods: Here, we address whether Zn2+_in controls the transcription of Ni2+-sensitive Ca2+ channels, i.e. R/T-type Ca2+ currents mediated by the α1 subunits Cav2.3 and Cav3.1–3.3. In NG108–15 neuroblastoma cells, transient exposure to 200 uM Zn2+ und…