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Calcium dynamics integrated into signalling pathways that influence vertebrate axial patterning
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Calcium dynamics integrated into signalling pathways that influence vertebrate axial patterning

Christina M Freisinger, Igor Schneider, Trudi A Westfall and Diane C Slusarski
Philosophical transactions. Biological sciences, Vol.363(1495), pp.1377-1385
04/12/2008
DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2007.2255
PMCID: PMC2610126
PMID: 18198152
url
https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2007.2255View
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

Many aspects of animal development including fertilization as well as organ formation and function are dependent upon the dynamic release of calcium (Ca(2+)) ions. Although the controlled release and/or accumulation of Ca(2+) ions has been extensively studied, how the release dynamics produce a specific biological output in embryonic development is less clear. We will briefly summarize Ca(2+) sources, highlight data on endogenous Ca(2+) release in vertebrate embryos relevant to body plan formation and cell movement, and integrate pharmacological and molecular-genetic studies to lend insight into the signalling pathways involved. Finally, based on in vivo imaging in zebrafish genetic mutants, we will put forward the model that distinct Ca(2+) release dynamics lead to antagonism of the developmentally important Wnt/beta-catenin signalling pathway, while sustained Ca(2+) release modulates cell polarization or directed migration.
Signal Transduction - physiology Animals Calcium - metabolism Models, Biological Vertebrates - physiology Body Patterning - physiology

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