TMEM16A protein: a new identity for Ca(2+)-dependent Cl⁻ channels.

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.