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The calcium-sensing receptor beyond extracellular calcium homeostasis: conception, development, adult physiology, and

Daniela Riccardi1, Paul J Kemp

  • 1Division of Pathophysiology and Repair, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, United Kingdom. riccardi@cf.ac.uk

Annual Review of Physiology
|October 25, 2011
PubMed

Insights

The calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) regulates extracellular calcium levels and has roles beyond mineral metabolism. This review explores its functions in nutrient sensing, development, and disease.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Physiology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • The extracellular calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) is a G protein-coupled receptor activated by extracellular calcium (Ca2+).
  • Genetic studies and murine models highlight CaSR's critical role in maintaining stable extracellular fluid calcium concentrations.
  • CaSR expression in lower vertebrates suggests functions beyond mineral cation metabolism.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the diverse roles of the CaSR beyond its established function in mineral homeostasis.
  • To explore the CaSR's involvement in nutrient sensing, embryonic development, and adult physiology and disease.
  • To discuss CaSR-based therapeutics and recent advances in stem cell differentiation.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of genetic studies, murine models, and functional analyses of the CaSR.
  • Analysis of CaSR distribution and expression patterns in various species.
  • Synthesis of current research on CaSR's involvement in physiological processes and disease states.

Main Results:

  • CaSR plays a significant role in nutrient sensing.
  • CaSR is involved in conception, embryonic development, and birth.
  • CaSR contributes to adult physiology and disease, with emerging roles in stem cell differentiation.

Conclusions:

  • The CaSR possesses multifaceted functions extending beyond calcium homeostasis.
  • Understanding the broader roles of CaSR opens avenues for novel therapeutic strategies.
  • Further research into CaSR's involvement in development and stem cells is warranted.

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