Highlighting the Multifaceted Role of Orai1 N-Terminal- and Loop Regions for Proper CRAC Channel Functions

Orai1, the Ca(2+)-selective pore in the plasma membrane, is one of the key components of the Ca(2+)release-activated Ca(2+) (CRAC) channel complex. Activated by the Ca(2+) sensor in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane, stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), via direct interaction when ER luminal Ca(2+) levels recede, Orai1 helps to maintain Ca(2+) homeostasis within a cell. It has already been proven that the C-terminus of Orai1 is indispensable for channel activation. However, there is strong evidence that for CRAC channels to function properly and maintain all typical hallmarks, such as selectivity and reversal potential, additional parts of Orai1 are needed. In this review, we focus on these sites apart from the C-terminus; namely, the second loop and N-terminus of Orai1 and on their multifaceted role in the functioning of CRAC channels.