The role of SERCA in vascular diseases, a potential therapeutic target

Abstract

SERCA, the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca²⁺-ATPase, is a pivotal protein that transports calcium ions (Ca²⁺) from the cytoplasm into the sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum (SR/ER), thus sustaining cellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis. A growing body of evidence indicates that SERCA dysfunction correlates with disrupted cellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis and ER stress, precipitating a spectrum of chronic diseases. As a regulator of Ca²⁺ homeostasis, SERCA emerges as a potential therapeutic target for conditions associated with Ca²⁺ imbalance. This review delineates the association between SERCA and a variety of vascular diseases.