Cellular Calcium: A Practical Approach (The Practical Approach Series)

Calcium is arguably the most diverse and widespread of the intracellular second messengers, being involved in many mechanisms of cellular biochemistry, physiology, and pathology, where it plays a key role in signal transduction. Hormones and other extracellular agents bring about many of their effects by causing changes intracellular calcium concentration. This book provides a comprehensive description of state-of-the-art techniques for measuring intracellular calcium concentrations, including protocols for the use of fluorescent, bioluminescent and metallochromic indicators, and various other intracellular probes. Also outlined are methods for controlling and changing the calcium ion concentration in cells, as well as procedures used to study the important proteins involved in the membrane transport and intracellular binding of calcium. All of the chapters provide expert practical guidance in the techniques described and list any problems likely to be encountered. This book will appeal to a wide range of biological and biomedical researchers, particularly those involved in cellular, molecular, and neurobiology.