The role of Ca2+ activated Cl- channels in blood pressure control

Ca2+-activated Cl- channels (CaCCs) have numerous functions in the body and are potential players in the control of blood pressure. The CaCCs represent a heterologous group including at least two protein families; TMEM16 and bestrophins. CaCCs expression has been shown in the kidney, the heart and blood vessels. Agonist-stimulated Ca2+-activated Cl- current is important for secretion in kidney epithelia, generation of a repolarizing current in the heart and amplification of excitation-contraction coupling in vascular smooth muscle cells. Changes in CaCC expression are shown in association with hypertension, kidney cysts, sudden cardiac death and arrhythmias. This review discusses recent advances in studies concerning the role of CaCC for blood pressure control with focus on the kidney, the heart and blood vessels.