Author(s) :

Muhammad Usman, Riffat Maqsood, Sadia Ali, Muhammad Saif, Waseem Akram.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Various functions in eukaryotic cell from proliferation upto death are performed by calcium signaling. Calcium level is elevated in stimulated cells which interferes cell growth through various pathways. Ca2+ sensitive fluorescent indicators like Fura-2 are used to judge the levels of calcium ions. Intracellular and extracellular sources are used by cell to generate signals for normal functioning. Movement of calcium across various barriers is facilitated by various calcium channels. During cell proliferation, synthesis of DNA, regulation of behavior and structural integrity of microtubules is affected by calcium ions which are associated with CDK or cyclin complexes by CAM and CaN. Changes in intracellular levels of calcium result in translocation of transcription factors like NFAT and NF-κB into nucleus. The phosphorylation of NFAT and NF-κB results in their activation. After activation they move into nucleus and combines with specific genes. Calcium signaling also plays an important role in programmed death of cell through apoptosis. The production of death-inducing signaling complex (DISC) due to some mediators may lead to programmed cell death. Additionally, mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) may lead to cellular death due to calcium overload. BCL-2 proteins direct apoptosis by monitoring the route of Ca2+from the ER to the mitochondria.

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