Final answer:
CACNA1C codes for a voltage-gated calcium channel subunit. Mutations in CACNA1C can lead to the dysregulation of calcium channel function, which has been implicated in psychiatric and cardiac disorders.
Step-by-step explanation:
The protein CACNA1C codes for a type of protein called a voltage-gated calcium channel subunit. These channels are responsible for regulating the flow of calcium ions across cell membranes. CACNA1C is specifically involved in the formation of L-type calcium channels, which play a crucial role in controlling the electrical activity of cells, including neurons and muscle cells. There is evidence to suggest that mutations in the CACNA1C gene can lead to the dysregulation of calcium channel function, which has been implicated in several disorders. For example, variations in CACNA1C have been associated with psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Additionally, CACNA1C mutations have been linked to cardiac disorders, including long QT syndrome and arrhythmias. Overall, the role of CACNA1C in regulating calcium channel function highlights its importance in various physiological processes and the potential consequences when its function is disrupted.