Introduction The coupling between the stimulation of a muscle fibre and the massive intracellular calcium release, that is the molecular basis of muscle contraction, is fulfilled by a macromolecular complex, the calcium release complex (CRC). Exegesis A very precise molecular architecture is required for CRC correct function, as well as a specific membrane organisation in muscle cells. Conclusion Several muscle pathologies are associated with mutations in the two calcium channels of the CRC. However, elucidation of mechanisms involved in CRC function are still required to characterise muscle pathologies of unknown origin.