TRPC channels and store-operated Ca2+ entry

Store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) is a major mechanism for Ca2+ influx. Since SOCE was first proposed two decades ago many techniques have been used in attempting to identify the nature of store-operated Ca2+ (SOC) channels. The first identified and best-characterised store-operated current is ICRAC, but a number of other currents activated by Ca2+ store depletion have also been described. TRPC proteins have long been proposed as SOC channel candidates; however, whether any of the TRPCs function as SOC channels remains controversial. This review attempts to provide an overview of the arguments in favour and against the role of TRPC proteins in the store-operated mechanisms of agonist-activated Ca2+ entry.