Regulation of neuronal voltage-gated calcium channels by ethanol

Voltage-gated calcium channels are key regulators of neuronal excitability. Several studies indicate that intoxicating concentrations of ethanol inhib it L-type, N-type and possibly T-type channels. The effects of ethanol on o ther channel subtypes are not yet clear. Chronic exposure to ethanol is ass ociated with increases in functional L-type channels and this may contribut e to signs of ethanol withdrawal. Preclinical studies in animals suggest th at L-type calcium channel antagonists decrease ethanol consumption and sign s of alcohol withdrawal. Although L-type channel antagonists do not appear to alter the performance impairing or psychological effects of acute ethano l administration, clinical trials will be needed to determine if L-type cha nnel antagonists reduce ethanol consumption in humans. (C) 1999 Elsevier Sc ience Ltd. All rights reserved.