Calcium Transport and Signaling in Mitochondria

Compr Physiol. 2017 Mar 16;7(2):623-634. doi: 10.1002/cphy.c160013.

Abstract

Calcium (Ca2+) is a key player in the regulation of many cell functions. Just like Ca2+, mitochondria are ubiquitous, versatile, and dynamic players in determining both cell survival and death decisions. Given their ubiquitous nature, the regulation of both is deeply intertwined, whereby Ca2+ regulates mitochondrial functions, while mitochondria shape Ca2+ dynamics. Deregulation of either Ca2+ or mitochondrial signaling leads to abnormal function, cell damage or even cell death, thereby contributing to muscle dysfunction or cardiac pathologies. Moreover, altered mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis has been linked to metabolic diseases like cancer, obesity, and pulmonary hypertension. In this review article, we summarize the mechanisms that coordinate mitochondrial and Ca2+ responses and how they affect human health. © 2017 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 7:623-634, 2017.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium / metabolism*
  • Calcium / physiology
  • Calcium Signaling / physiology*
  • Cell Death / physiology
  • Homeostasis / physiology
  • Humans
  • Mitochondria / metabolism
  • Mitochondria / physiology*
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / metabolism

Substances

  • Calcium