ORAI1

ORAI1

A gene on chromosome 12q24.31 that encodes a Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channel subunit, which mediates Ca2+ influx following depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores and channel activation by the Ca2+ sensor, STIM1. CRAC channels are the main pathway for Ca2+ influx in T cells and promote an immune response to pathogens by activating the transcription factor NFAT.
Molecular pathology
Defects in ORAI1 cause immune dysfunction with T-cell inactivation due to calcium entry defect type 1.