Acid-sensing ion channels( ASICs )are ubiquitously expressed both in periphery nervous system, where they are involved in nociception,mechanosensation,inflammation ,cardiac angina, and in central nervous system,where they are essential to a variety of physiologic and pathophysiologic processes,such as synaptic plasticity ,learning ,memory and ischemic brain injury. Here in the article, we present a collection of key points about ASICs, ranging from molecular identity and expression, regulatory mechanisms responsible for channel gating to their multiple functions. Finally, a future prospect for the investigation of ASICs is outlined.

Aim To investigate the blockade of cadmium on store operated calcium channels and the fluorescence interference of cadmium with Fura-2.Methods PC12 cells were used to determine the intracellular calcium concentration [Ca~(2+)]i indicated by change in Fura-2 fluorescence ratio(F_(340)/F_(380)).Results Introduction of cadmium induced a significant increase in Fura-2 fluorescence ratio following thapsigargin-evoked calcium entry;Besides,cadmium gave rise to a remarkable elevation in Fura-2 fluorescence ratio following breakdown of the plasma membrane by triton,a detergent.The Fura-2 fluorescence was increased in the presence of cadmium and Fura-2/AM,simultaneously in the absence of PC12 cells.Conclusion Cadmium can interfere with the Fura-2 fluorescence.