Voltage-Gated Ion Channels in Human Pancreatic β-Cells: Electrophysiological Characterization and Role in Insulin Secretion

Abstract

Voltage-gated T-type and L-type Ca(2+) channels as well as Na(+) channels participate in glucose-stimulated electrical activity and insulin secretion. Ca(2+)-activated BK channels are required for rapid membrane repolarization. Exocytosis of insulin-containing granules is principally triggered by Ca(2+) influx through P/Q-type Ca(2+) channels.