The epithelial calcium channels TRPV5 and TRPV6: Regulation and implications for disease

Abstract

The epithelial Ca2+ channels TRPV5 and TRPV6 represent a new family of Ca2+ channels that belongs to the superfamily of transient receptor potential channels. TRPV5 and TRPV6 constitute the apical Ca 2+ entry mechanism in active Ca2+ transport in kidney and intestine. The central role of TRPV5 and TRPV6 in active Ca2+ (re)absorption makes it a prime target for regulation to maintain Ca 2+ balance. This review covers the hormonal regulation, interaction with accessory proteins and (patho)physiological implications of these epithelial Ca2+ channels. © Springer-Verlag 2005.