Warning: The NCBI web site requires JavaScript to function. more...
Generate a file for use with external citation management software.
Dept. of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, 1212 Amsterdam Avenue, Box 2435, New York, New York 10027, USA. rafa@cubsps.bio.columbia.edu
Dendritic spines compartmentalize calcium, and this could be their main function. We review experimental work on spine calcium dynamics. Calcium influx into spines is mediated by calcium channels and by NMDA and AMPA receptors and is followed by fast diffusional equilibration within the spine head. Calcium decay kinetics are controlled by slower diffusion through the spine neck and by spine calcium pumps. Calcium release occurs in spines, although its role is controversial. Finally, the endogenous calcium buffers in spines remain unknown. Thus, spines are calcium compartments because of their morphologies and local influx and extrusion mechanisms. These studies highlight the richness and heterogeneity of pathways that regulate calcium accumulations in spines and the close relationship between the morphology and function of the spine.
Your browsing activity is empty.
Activity recording is turned off.
Turn recording back on