Calcium oscillations and pacemaking

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2012:740:511-20. doi: 10.1007/978-94-007-2888-2_22.

Abstract

Calcium plays important role in biological systems where it is involved in diverse mechanisms such as signaling, muscle contraction and neuromodulation. Action potentials are generated by dynamic interaction of ionic channels located on the plasma-membrane and these drive the rhythmic activity of biological systems such as the smooth muscle and the heart. However, ionic channels are not the only pacemakers; an intimate interaction between intracellular Ca(2+) stores and ionic channels underlie rhythmic activity. In this review we will focus on the role of Ca(2+) stores in regulation of rhythmical behavior.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Calcium Signaling / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Ion Channels / physiology
  • Muscle, Smooth / metabolism
  • Sinoatrial Node / physiology

Substances

  • Ion Channels
  • Calcium