Interplay Between Calcium Signaling and Reactive Oxygen Species

Calcium ion (Ca2+) is an important secondary messenger and plays an essential role in regulating gene expression, cell cycle control, cell motility, autophagy and apoptosis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated in moderate levels by different intracellular systems, acting as signaling molecules involved in various physiological processes, while high levels of ROS can cause dysfunction, diseases, and even cell death. Increasing evidence suggests a mutual cross-talk between Ca2+ and ROS signaling systems which seems to have important implications for fine tuning cellular signaling networks. The interactions between Ca2+ and ROS signaling systems can be either stimulatory or inhibitory, depending on the type of target proteins, the ROS species, the dose, and exposure time. Such complex connection might enhance signal transduction, whereas dysfunction in either system might affect the other system and undermine the stability of both systems. This review briefly summarizes the interactions between the two signaling systems that finely tune the homeostasis of Ca2+ and ROS.

CSTR: 32200.14.cjcb.2019.09.0020