ATP-gated nonselective transmembrane cation channel permeable to potassium, sodium and calcium . Activated by extracellularly released ATP, it plays multiple role in immunity and central nervous system physiology . Plays a key role in initial steps of T-cell activation and Ca(2+) microdomain formation (By similarity). Participates also in basal T-cell activity without TCR/CD3 stimulation (By similarity). Promotes the differentiation and activation of Th17 cells via expression of retinoic acid-related orphan receptor C/RORC . Upon activation, drives microglia motility via the PI3K/Akt pathway (By similarity). Could also function as an ATP-gated cation channel of lysosomal membranes (By similarity).
Subcellular locations: Cell membrane, Lysosome membrane