Cacna1a (calcium channel, voltage-dependent, P/Q type, alpha 1A subunit) is expressed in neuronal tissue and encodes the pore-forming alpha1a subunit, which directs activity of the CaV2.1 voltage-gated calcium channel. Mutations in CACNA1A are associated with ataxia and migraines. Mice homozygous for the rocker (rkr) ENU-induced allele exhibit splayed hindlimbs, a mildly ataxic gait, absence seizures, abnormal ocular motor behavior and impaired synaptic transmission in parallel fiber Purkinje cells (PF-PC). Dendrites from Purkinje cells have less arborization, reduced length, and a "weeping willow" appearance. The rocker phenotype is less severe than in other Cacna1a mutants (tottering, leaner). Heterozygotes are viable and fertile. These mutant mice may be useful for studies of voltage-dependent calcium channels and as an additional phenotype for the Cacna1a allelic series.

Rocker (rkr) mutant mice possess an ENU-induced point mutation in the Cacna1a (calcium channel, voltage-dependent, P/Q type, alpha 1A subunit) gene. Homozygous mice exhibit mild ataxia, absence seizures, and abnormal dendritic branching in Purkinje cells. They may be useful for studies of voltage-dependent calcium channels and as an additional phenotype for the Cacna1a allelic series.

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