Tescalcin, also known as TESC, TSC or CHP3, is a 267 amino acid protein that contains one EF-hand domain and is expressed abundantly in adult heart tissue. Using calcium as a cofactor, Tescalcin interacts with NHE-1 and functions to couple the activation of the ERK cascade with the expression of Ets proteins during megakaryocytic differentiation. Human Tescalcin shares 97% sequence identity with its mouse counterpart, suggesting a conserved role between species. Multiple isoforms of Tescalcin exist due to alternative splicing events. Functions as an integral cofactor in cell pH regulation by controlling plasma membrane-type Na+/H+ exchange activity. Promotes the maturation, transport, cell surface stability and exchange activity of SLC9A1/NHE1 at the plasma membrane. Promotes the induction of hematopoietic stem cell differentiation toward megakaryocytic lineage. Essential for the coupling of ERK cascade activation with the expression of ETS family genes in megakaryocytic differentiation. Also involved in granulocytic differentiation in a ERK-dependent manner. Inhibits the phosphatase activity of calcineurin.
