ABSTRACT
Until very recently, our knowledge of the way cytosolic intracellular free calcium ([Ca2]CYT) is regulated in mammalian cells was relatively simple. We knew that increases in [Ca2]CYT could trigger a diverse array of physiological responses such as neurotransmitter and hormone release and muscle contraction, however it is only recently that the true complexity of calcium regulation has been appreciated. In this chapter, recent advances in our understanding of Ca2 regulation will be discussed, particular attention will be paid to the way Ca2 can increase to a greater degree in specific subcellular domains, and the possible significance of this in disease. The current targets for direct modification of Ca2 transport in the cell will be outlined briefly, with those targets currently without selective pharmacological inhibitors highlighted.
