Calcium signals–rapid changes in calcium ion concentration–are carefully orchestrated by a suite of proteins that transport and bind to calcium ions inside cells. These signals influence virtually all aspects of animal development and physiology, from fertilization and cell differentiation to muscle contraction and nerve impulses. Aberrant calcium signaling is associated with various pathologies (e.g., cancer and neurodegeneration) as well as aging. Written and edited by experts in the field, this collection from Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology provides a comprehensive update on all facets of calcium signaling. The contributors discuss the components and activities of the various calcium-sequestering organelles inside cells, the dynamic interactions that lead to spatiotemporally distinct signals in different circumstances, and the downstream effector mechanisms that translate the signals into biological outcomes. Recent advances in the field (e.g., structural insights into the functions of certain calcium channels) are emphasized throughout.

The authors also discuss normal and perturbed calcium signaling during fertilization, development, physiology, regeneration, aging, and disease. This volume is therefore an indispensable reference for biochemists, cell and developmental biologists, and physiologists seeking a comprehensive treatment of calcium signaling.