New aspects of the contribution of ER to SOCE regulation

The junctions between the endoplasmic reticulum and the plasma membrane are essential platforms for the activation of store operated Ca2+ influx. These junctions have specific dimensions and are non-uniformly distributed in polarized cells. The mechanisms involved in the formation of the junctions are currently unknown. Some cell types display stationary junctions, whilst in other cells new junctions can form rapidly following the reduction of the Ca2+ concentration in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum. The proteins involved in the activation of the Ca2+ influx could be involved the formation of the junctions. The architecture and the dynamics of the junctions are important for the regulation of Ca2+ signaling cascade and its downstream events