TMEM16A Protein: A New Identity for Ca2+-Dependent Cl− Channels

Abstract

Ca+-dependent Cl− channels (CaCCs) play a variety of physiological roles in different organs and tissues, including transepithelial Cl− secretion, smooth muscle contraction, regulation of neuronal excitability, and transduction of sensory stimuli. The recent identification of TMEM16A protein as an important component of CaCCs should allow a better understanding of their physiological role, structure-function relationship, and regulatory mechanisms.