ERK1/2-dependent bestrophin-3 expression prevents ER-stress-induced cell death in renal epithelial cells by reducing CHOP

► In kidney cells, Bestrophin-3 is expressed in plasma membrane, nuclei and intracellular compartments. ► Renal Bestrophin-3 is increased by ER stress. ► ER stress-induced Bestrophin-3 expression depends on Ca2+, ROS and ERK. ► Bestrophin-3 enhances cell survival during ER stress. ► Bestrophin 3-dependent cell survival occurs through reduction of pro-apoptotic CHOP.