The function of SCN8A (sodium voltage-gated channel alpha subunit 8, ENSG00000196876) is as follows. Pore-forming subunit of a voltage-gated sodium channel complex assuming opened or closed conformations in response to the voltage difference across membranes and through which sodium ions selectively pass along their electrochemical gradient (PubMed:24874546, PubMed:25239001, PubMed:25725044, PubMed:26900580, PubMed:29726066, PubMed:33245860, PubMed:36696443, PubMed:36823201). Contributes to neuronal excitability by regulating action potential threshold and propagation (PubMed:24874546, PubMed:25239001, PubMed:25725044, PubMed:26900580, PubMed:29726066, PubMed:33245860, PubMed:36696443, PubMed:36823201). {ECO:0000269|PubMed:24874546, ECO:0000269|PubMed:25239001, ECO:0000269|PubMed:25725044, ECO:0000269|PubMed:26900580, ECO:0000269|PubMed:29726066, ECO:0000269|PubMed:33245860, ECO:0000269|PubMed:36696443, ECO:0000269|PubMed:36823201}. [Isoform 5]: More specifically expressed in non-neuronal cells, could play a role in sodium release from intracellular compartments and participate in the control of podosomes formation and macrophages adhesion and movement. .