MCOLN3 - mucolipin TRP cation channel 3

Function

Nonselective ligand-gated cation channel probably playing a role in the regulation of membrane trafficking events. Acts as Ca(2+)-permeable cation channel with inwardly rectifying activity (PubMed:18369318, PubMed:19497048, PubMed:19522758, PubMed:19885840, PubMed:29106414). Mediates release of Ca(2+) from endosomes to the cytoplasm, contributes to endosomal acidification and is involved in the regulation of membrane trafficking and fusion in the endosomal pathway (PubMed:21245134). Does not seem to act as mechanosensory transduction channel in inner ear sensory hair cells. Proposed to play a critical role at the cochlear stereocilia ankle-link region during hair-bundle growth (By similarity). Involved in the regulation of autophagy (PubMed:19522758). Through association with GABARAPL2 may be involved in autophagosome formation possibly providing Ca(2+) for the fusion process (By similarity). Through a possible and probably tissue-specific heteromerization with MCOLN1 may be at least in part involved in many lysosome-dependent cellular events (PubMed:19885840). Possible heteromeric ion channel assemblies with TRPV5 show pharmacological similarity with TRPML3 (PubMed:23469151).

Gene Regulons