Calcium, neuronal death and neurological disease
Jiménez-Jiménez, F.J.; García-Ruiz, P.J.; de Bustos, F.
Revista de Neurologia 24(134): 1199-1209
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0210-0010 PMID: 8983715 Document Number: 460895
Calcium ion (Ca2+) plays a role in several important functions in the central nervous system such as production of action potentials, neurotransmitter release, or neuronal plasticity, etc. However, its excessive influx to neurons due to failure of the mechanisms implicated in the regulation of its intracellular concentration (Ca(2+)-channels, calcium binding proteins), leads to a cascade of events which causes cytotoxicity and neuronal death. Ca2+ mediated toxicity has been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's), brain ischemia, epilepsy, cranial trauma, and AIDS-dementia complex. In this article we review the current status of this topic.