Multiple functions of junctin and junctate, two distinct isoforms of aspartyl beta-hydroxylase

The single genomic locus, AβH-J-J, encodes three functionally distinct proteins aspartyl beta-hydroxylase, junctin and junctate by alternative splicing. Among these three proteins, junctin and junctate could play important roles in the regulation of intracellular Ca2+ by regulating either Ca2+ release from intracellular Ca2+ stores or Ca2+ influx in various biological processes. Here we review recent findings concerning the expressional regulations and the proposed functions of junctin and junctate.