Ca2+ is an essential ion in all organisms and many physiological functions in the body rely on the exact maintenance of the Ca2+ balance. The epithelial Ca2+ channels TRPV5 [TRP (transient receptor potential) vanilloid 5] and TRPV6 are the most Ca2+-selective members of the TRP superfamily and are generally considered as the gatekeepers of Ca2+ entry across epithelia. TRPV5 is involved in Ca2+ reabsorption from pro-urine, while TRPV6 has an essential role in intestinal Ca2+ uptake. These channels are the prime targets of calciotropic hormonal regulation, including vitamin D and parathyroid hormone. In addition, extra- and intra-cellular signalling by associated proteins and Ca2+ itself play key roles in TRPV5 and TRPV6 regulation. In this paper, we describe the present understanding of the concerted action of calbindin-D28k, klotho and BSPRY (B-box and SPRY-domain-containing protein) at different levels throughout the epithelial cell to control Ca2+ influx at the luminal entry gate.

You do not currently have access to this content.