Gure bihotzeko kalmodulina

Abstract

Calcium is a universal signaling messenger that participates in essential processes such as apoptosis, cell proliferation and muscle contraction. Many of the proteins involved in these processes must interact with a calcium sensor to respond to the changes of concentration of this ion. The best-studied sensor is Calmodulin (CaM). It regulates the activity of hundreds of proteins through its N- and C- lobes, where two EF-hands are located to bind up to four calcium ions. Although the role of CaM in cell signaling is widespread, its mutations are especially recognized through its effects on cardiac function. In fact, disease-causing mutations in any of the three genes that encode the same CaM proteins cause severe cardiac dysfunction, indicating their importance in regulating excitability. Therefore, knowing the mechanisms involved in these diseases can allow a rational approach to clinical manifestations and contribute to the development of therapeutic strategies.