Vascular smooth muscle membrane potential is a key determinant
of vessel tone primarily through regulation of
voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs). The opening
probability of VDCCs is increased by membrane depolarization,
facilitating influx of calcium and producing contraction of
vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Control of membrane
potential and VDCC activity is orchestrated by a complex series
of signals that occur just below the sarcolemmal membrane