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Calcium is vital for bodily functions, with 1% in plasma crucial for nerve and muscle activity. This review covers calcium
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Nephrology
Background:
- Calcium is essential for numerous metabolic processes.
- 99% of body calcium provides skeletal structure, while 1% in plasma regulates critical functions like blood clotting, nerve conduction, and muscle contraction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the functions and complex homeostasis of calcium.
- To detail the renal handling and regulation of calcium balance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of calcium physiology and renal handling.
- Description of renal tubular reabsorption sites and cellular mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Calcium homeostasis involves intricate interactions between the gastrointestinal tract, bones, and kidneys.
- Specific sites and cellular mechanisms for renal tubular calcium reabsorption are identified.
Conclusions:
- Understanding calcium's role and regulation is key to metabolic and renal health.
- The kidneys play a significant role in maintaining calcium balance through reabsorption processes.
Abstract:
Calcium is critical for many metabolic functions. While 99% of body calcium is found as part of the structure of bone and teeth, 1% found in plasma and body cells is crucial for such functions as blood clotting, nerve impulse conduction, and muscle contraction. The homeostasis of calcium is complex because the gastrointestinal tract, the bones, and the kidneys all affect calcium balance. This article reviews the functions, homeostasis, and renal handling and regulation of calcium. The major sites of renal tubular reabsorption and the presumed cellular mechanisms involved are described.