Figure: Cacna1a (MGI:MGI:109482)¶
This diagram illustrates the signaling pathway of the Cacna1a gene product (P/Q-type calcium channel) in neuronal signaling. The P/Q-type calcium channel (CACNA1A) is shown embedded in the neuronal membrane separating the extracellular space from the neuronal cytoplasm.
Key components shown: 1. CACNA1A (P/Q-type calcium channel) - The central protein that allows calcium influx into neurons 2. Neuropeptides that modulate channel function: - Proenkephalin (PENK) - Binds to opioid receptors - Somatostatin (SST) - Directly modulates the calcium channel - Cholecystokinin (CCK) - Directly modulates the calcium channel 3. OPRM1 (Opioid receptor) - Inhibits calcium channel function when activated 4. CSTL1 (Cysteine protease) - Processes proenkephalin in the signaling pathway 5. β Subunits - Bind to and modulate the calcium channel function 6. Calcium-binding proteins - Activated by calcium influx 7. Neurotransmitter release - Triggered by calcium-binding protein activation
The pathway shows how calcium influx through CACNA1A channels contributes to neurotransmitter release, and how this process is regulated by various neuropeptides and receptors. Arrow thickness indicates relative interaction strength. The calcium channel functions in multiple neuronal cell types including Purkinje cells, motor neurons, and granule cells.
Feedback from AI on figure:
{"feedback":"The final diagram effectively illustrates the CACNA1A gene product pathway in neuronal signaling. It clearly shows the P/Q-type calcium channel in the neuronal membrane and its interactions with various signaling molecules. The diagram is well-organized with a clear separation between extracellular space and neuronal cytoplasm. The improved readability through larger text size and the addition of a color legend enhance understanding. The varying arrow thickness to indicate interaction strength adds an informative dimension to the visualization. The labeled interactions (inhibits, modulates, processes, etc.) provide clarity on the nature of each relationship in the pathway.","necessary_changes":null,"optional_changes":null}