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Calcium signalling in lymphocyte activation and disease

Stefan Feske1

  • 1Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, New York 10016, USA. stefan.feske@med.nyu.edu

Nature Reviews. Immunology
|August 19, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Calcium signals regulate immune cell functions. Key pathways involving store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) and calcium-release-activated calcium (CRAC) channels, including STIM and ORAI proteins, are crucial for lymphocyte activity and immune system health.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Calcium ions (Ca2+) are critical intracellular messengers in immune cells.
  • Immune receptor engagement triggers increases in intracellular Ca2+ levels.
  • Lymphocyte activation relies on specific calcium signaling pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of Ca2+ signals in lymphocyte functions.
  • To elucidate signaling pathways responsible for Ca2+ influx.
  • To discuss the function of STIM and ORAI proteins in Ca2+ regulation.
  • To explore the link between Ca2+ signaling and immune diseases.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific publications.
  • Analysis of signaling pathways involved in calcium homeostasis.
  • Examination of the roles of STIM and ORAI proteins.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on calcium signaling in immunity.

Main Results:

  • Ca2+ signals regulate immune cell differentiation, gene transcription, and effector functions.
  • Store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) via CRAC channels is a major pathway for Ca2+ influx in lymphocytes.
  • STIM and ORAI proteins are key regulators of SOCE.
  • Dysregulation of Ca2+ signaling is associated with immune system diseases.

Conclusions:

  • Ca2+ signaling is fundamental to lymphocyte function and immune responses.
  • Understanding SOCE, CRAC channels, STIM, and ORAI provides insights into immune cell regulation.
  • Targeting Ca2+ pathways may offer therapeutic strategies for immune-related disorders.

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