The versatility and universality of calcium signalling

Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol. 2000 Oct;1(1):11-21. doi: 10.1038/35036035.

Abstract

The universality of calcium as an intracellular messenger depends on its enormous versatility. Cells have a calcium signalling toolkit with many components that can be mixed and matched to create a wide range of spatial and temporal signals. This versatility is exploited to control processes as diverse as fertilization, proliferation, development, learning and memory, contraction and secretion, and must be accomplished within the context of calcium being highly toxic. Exceeding its normal spatial and temporal boundaries can result in cell death through both necrosis and apoptosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Body Patterning / physiology
  • Calcium Channels / metabolism
  • Calcium Signaling*
  • Cell Differentiation / physiology
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum / metabolism
  • Fertilization / physiology
  • Humans
  • Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptors
  • Macromolecular Substances
  • Models, Biological
  • Muscles / physiology
  • Neurons / metabolism
  • Pancreas / metabolism
  • Receptors, Cell Surface / metabolism
  • Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear / metabolism
  • Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel / metabolism

Substances

  • Calcium Channels
  • ITPR1 protein, human
  • Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptors
  • Macromolecular Substances
  • Receptors, Cell Surface
  • Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear
  • Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Release Channel