Calcium-dependent physiological processes

Calcium-dependent physiological processes refer to the diverse range of cellular and systemic functions that are regulated by calcium ions (Ca2+), acting as a critical second messenger across all domains of eukaryotic life [1, 2]. These processes include essential activities such as skeletal and cardiac muscle contraction, neurotransmitter release in the nervous system, enzyme regulation, and hormone secretion [1, 3, 8]. Intracellular and extracellular calcium levels are tightly maintained within a narrow homeostatic range through a complex network of ion channels (e.g., voltage-gated calcium channels, TRPV6), pumps, and sensors like calmodulin (CaM) and the calcium-sensing receptor [1, 4, 8]. Dysregulation of these calcium-mediated signaling cascades is a hallmark of many pathological states, including cardiovascular disorders, neurodegeneration, and various cancers where it can drive uncontrolled cell proliferation and resistance to apoptosis [2, 4, 5]. Pharmacological modulation of these pathways is typically achieved by targeting specific molecular components, such as L-type calcium channels or calcineurin, rather than the collective processes themselves [5, 6].

Other names

Calcium signalingCalcium homeostasisCalcium-mediated signaling cascadesIntracellular calcium signaling

Drugs modulate these physiological processes by targeting specific proteins, such as ion channels (blocking Ca2+ influx), receptors (altering sensing), or enzymes (inhibiting signaling mediators), to restore calcium homeostasis or dampen pathological signaling.