Background of the antigen
Functions as a calcium permeable cation channel involved in fluid-flow mechanosensation by the primary cilium in renal epithelium. Together with TRPV4, forms mechano- and thermosensitive channels in cilium (PubMed:18695040). PKD1 and PKD2 may function through a common signaling pathway that is necessary for normal tubulogenesis. Acts as a regulator of cilium length, together with PKD1. The dynamic control of cilium length is essential in the regulation of mechanotransductive signaling. The cilium length response creates a negative feedback loop whereby fluid shear-mediated deflection of the primary cilium, which decreases intracellular cAMP, leads to cilium shortening and thus decreases flow-induced signaling. Also involved in left/right axis specification downstream of nodal flow: forms a complex with PKD1L1 in cilia to facilitate flow detection in left/right patterning (By similarity).
