Calcium signaling
Calcium signaling
Calcium signaling (pronunciation: /ˈkalsiəm ˈsiɡnəliNG/) is a form of cellular communication that involves the use of calcium ions (Ca2+) as signaling molecules.
Etymology
The term "calcium signaling" is derived from the Latin word "calx" or "calcis" meaning lime, referring to the element calcium, and the English word "signal", which refers to a transmitted or received message.
Definition
Calcium signaling is a process where cells use calcium ions to transmit information within the cell and between cells. This process is crucial for many cellular functions, including muscle contraction, neuron firing, and cell growth.
Mechanism
Calcium signaling typically involves the release of calcium ions from intracellular stores, such as the endoplasmic reticulum, or the influx of calcium ions from the extracellular space. The increase in intracellular calcium concentration can then activate various calcium-sensitive proteins, leading to a cellular response.
Related Terms
- Calcium channel: A type of protein that allows calcium ions to pass through a cell's membrane.
- Calcium pump: A protein that moves calcium ions out of the cell or into the endoplic reticulum.
- Calcium wave: A wave of increased calcium concentration that propagates through a cell or a group of cells.
- Calcium spark: A localized and transient increase in intracellular calcium concentration.
- Inositol trisphosphate (IP3): A molecule that triggers the release of calcium from intracellular stores.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Calcium signaling
- Wikipedia's article - Calcium signaling
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