Calcium-activated non selective (CAN) cation channel that mediates membrane depolarization ( ). While it is activated by increase in intracellular Ca(2+), it is impermeable to it . Mediates transport of monovalent cations (Na(+) > K(+) > Cs(+) > Li(+)), leading to depolarize the membrane. It thereby plays a central role in cadiomyocytes, neurons from entorhinal cortex, dorsal root and vomeronasal neurons, endocrine pancreas cells, kidney epithelial cells, cochlea hair cells etc. Participates in T-cell activation by modulating Ca(2+) oscillations after T lymphocyte activation, which is required for NFAT-dependent IL2 production. Involved in myogenic constriction of cerebral arteries. Controls insulin secretion in pancreatic beta-cells. May also be involved in pacemaking or could cause irregular electrical activity under conditions of Ca(2+) overload. Affects T-helper 1 (Th1) and T-helper 2 (Th2) cell motility and cytokine production through differential regulation of calcium signaling and NFATC1 localization. Enhances cell proliferation through up-regulation of the beta-catenin signaling pathway. Plays a role in keratinocyte differentiation .
Subcellular locations: Cell membrane, Endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus
Subcellular locations: Cell membrane, Endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus
Widely expressed with a high expression in intestine and prostate. In brain, it is both expressed in whole cerebral arteries and isolated vascular smooth muscle cells. Prominently expressed in Purkinje fibers. Expressed at higher levels in T-helper 2 (Th2) cells as compared to T-helper 1 (Th1) cells. Expressed in keratocytes .