[Calcium homeostasis in the animal cell--an outline]

Calcium ions are universal and versatile intracellular signalling molecule which is involved in regulation of many cellular functions in all living cells throughout all animal species. It results from unique properties of Ca2+ in comparison to other two- and monovalent cations commonly present inside and outside cells. On the other hand an excessive increase of intracellular Ca2+ accumulation may exert toxic effect leading to cell death. Therefore calcium content in particular cellular compartment must be precisely regulated. All cells have a complex set of proteins which allow them to remove, store or take up Ca2+ in very controlled manner. This article gives a concise survey of mechanisms involved cellular calcium homeostasis and signalling.