Abstract
Influx of calcium into cells following stimulation of cell surface
receptors is a key process controlling cellular activity. However,
despite intensive research, there is still no consensus on precisely
how calcium entry is controlled in electrically no n-excitable cells.
In particular, the regulation of depletion-activated or 'capacitative'
calcium entry continues to be a focus of debate. Work published in
the last 2 years has lent new impetus to the so-called 'conformational
coupling' theory, although evidence for the existence of soluble
messengers between the ER and the plasma membrane also continues
to appear. In addition, there remains disagreement on whether intra-store
Ca$^2+$ has to fall below a threshold before Ca$^2+$entry
is activated. A further major question is the identity of the putative
depletion-operated Ca$^2+$channel or channels. Here discussion
has largely focussed on whether homologue(s) of the Drosophila TRP
('Transient Receptor Potential') protein is/are the elusive channel,
or at least a part of it. Finally, it remains possible that Ca$^2+$entry
mechanisms other than depletion-activated channels may be important
in agonist-evoked Ca$^2+$influx. This commentary summarizes recent
developments in the field, and highlights both current debates and
critical unsolved questions.
- 11440466
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