Stac protein regulates release of neuropeptides.

Neuropeptides are important for regulating numerous neural functions and behaviors. Release of neuropeptides requires long-lasting, high levels of cytosolic Ca However, the molecular regulation of neuropeptide release remains to be clarified. Recently, Stac3 was identified as a key regulator of L-type Ca channels (CaChs) and excitation-contraction coupling in vertebrate skeletal muscles.

Dstac Regulates Excitation-Contraction Coupling in Body Wall Muscles.

Stac3 regulates excitation-contraction coupling (EC coupling) in vertebrate skeletal muscles by regulating the L-type voltage-gated calcium channel (Ca channel). Recently a -like gene, , was identified in and found to be expressed by both a subset of neurons and muscles. Here, we show that Dstac and Dmca1D, the L-type Ca channel, are necessary for normal locomotion by larvae.