Redundant mechanisms of calcium-induced calcium release underlying calcium waves during fertilization of sea urchin eggs.

Galione, A; McDougall, A; Busa, W B; Willmott, N; Gillot, I; Whitaker, M · Science · 1993

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Propagating Ca2+ waves are a characteristic feature of Ca(2+)-linked signal transduction pathways. Intracellular Ca2+ waves are formed by regenerative stimulation of Ca2+ release from intracellular stores by Ca2+ itself. Mechanisms that rely on either inositol trisphosphate or ryanodine receptor channels have been proposed to account for Ca2+ waves in various cell types. Both channel types contributed to the Ca2+ wave during fertilization of sea urchin eggs. Alternative mechanisms of Ca2+ release imply redundancy but may also allow for modulation and diversity in the generation of Ca2+ waves.

Medical subject headings