Calcium channels are important for the function of many different types of neurons in the brain. However, disrupted CACNA1C gene activity has been linked to abnormal activity specifically in serotonin neurons, which results in abnormal stress-coping behavior in mice. However, this effect can be counteracted by blocking specific types of serotonin receptors (5-HT1a autoreceptors) [90] . Therefore, you may be able to reduce your risk by reducing the activity of these receptors.
Zinc reduces the ability of other neurotransmitters to bind to 5-HT1a receptors, making these receptors less active [91]. A number of studies have associated low levels of zinc to depression in humans [92], while zinc supplementation had significant anti-depressive effects in clinical studies ofpeople with depression [93].