Calbindin D28K and Calretinin (also designated CR or 29 kDa Calbindin) are two closely related intracellular calcium-binding proteins belonging to the Troponin-C superfamily. Initially isolated from chick retina, Calretinin shares 58% identical residues with human Calbindin D28K. Calretinin is expressed in the brain and is particularly abundant in auditory neurons with precisely timed discharges. Neurons in the nucleus accumbens containing Calretinin all possess nuclear indentations. Calretinin-immunoreactive boutons form asymmetrical and symmetrical synaptic specializations on spines, dendrites and somata. The symmetrical synaptic specializations have medium-sized spiny neurons and contact other Calretinin-immunoreactive somata. Calretinin is widely used as a immunocytochemical marker for mesothelioma.
