Co-localization of L-type voltage dependent calcium channel alpha 1D subunit (Cav1.3) and calbindin (CB) in the mouse central nervous system

• Cav1.3 was localized in neurons of the CNS.
• Calbindin was co-localized with Cav1.3 in some of the neurons.
• The possible implications of Cav1.3 and CB co-localization were discussed.

Previous study has shown that the co-localization of calbindin (CB) with L-type voltage dependent Ca2+ channel (VDCC) alpha 1C subunit (Cav1.2) in the rat insulinoma 1046-38 (RIN) beta cells may play an important regulatory role in Ca2+ influx and exocytosis of insulin granules. In the present study, L-type voltage dependent Ca2+ channel (VDCC) and calbindin (CB) were demonstrated in different regions of the mouse central nervous system (CNS). Double labeling immunofluorescence staining showed a co-localization of Cav1.3 and CB. The co-localization of Cav1.3 and CB in certain brain regions such as the hippocampus suggests their important roles in neuroplasticity. The relative high percentages of co-localization of Cav1.3 with CB in the laminae II of the dorsal horn of the spinal cord indicate that the regulation mechanism of nociceptive transmission may be related with both VDCC and Ca2+ binding protein.