The versatility and universality of calcium signalling
NATURE REVIEWS MOLECULAR CELL BIOLOGY, 1 (1):
11-21 (October 2000)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.
