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Fluorescent Calcium Imaging and Subsequent In Situ Hybridization for Neuronal Precursor Characterization in Xenopus laevis
Published on: February 18, 2020
Neuronal calcium homeostasis and dysregulation
Marc Gleichmann1, Mark P Mattson
1Laboratory of Neurosciences, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. marc.gleichmann@gmail.com
Antioxidants & Redox Signaling
|July 15, 2010
Summary
Calcium ion (Ca2+) signaling is vital for neuron function, but high activity depletes energy and increases oxidative stress. Dysregulation impacts aging and neurodegeneration.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Calcium ion (Ca2+) acts as a crucial second messenger in neuronal signaling, regulating depolarization and synaptic activity.
- Efficient neuronal function relies on intricate Ca2+ signaling pathways, demanding significant ATP for maintaining basal intracellular Ca2+ levels.
- Ca2+ influx can elevate mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, potentially impairing neuronal energy balance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the interplay between mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ homeostasis and synaptic Ca2+ signaling.
- To explore the relationship between Ca2+ signaling, neuronal energy metabolism, and ROS generation.
- To consider the role of altered Ca2+ signaling in age-related neurodegeneration and neurological disorders.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on Ca2+ homeostasis, energy metabolism, and ROS in neurons.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms regulating Ca2+ signaling pathways.
- Examination of Ca2+ dysregulation in aging and neurodegenerative conditions.
Main Results:
- High-intensity Ca2+ signaling requires substantial ATP, impacting neuronal energy reserves.
- Impaired neuronal energy maintenance and ROS suppression negatively affect Ca2+ signaling.
- Altered Ca2+ homeostasis is implicated in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
Conclusions:
- Mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ handling are central to synaptic function and neuronal health.
- Disruptions in Ca2+ signaling, energy metabolism, and ROS balance contribute to neurodegeneration.
- Understanding Ca2+ regulation offers potential therapeutic targets for neurological disorders.
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