What is calmodulin?

Calmodulin:

- Calcium sensor

- Small, highly conserved protein

- Plays crucial roles in multiple cellular processes

- Found in all eukaryotic cells

Functions:

- Binds to Ca2+ ions and undergoes conformational changes

- Activates or inhibits various enzymes, ion channels, and other target proteins in response to changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration

Examples of Calmodulin-Regulated Processes:

- Muscle contraction: Regulates the interaction of myosin and actin filaments

- Neurotransmitter release: Controls the opening of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in neurons

- Gene transcription: Interacts with transcription factors and modulates gene expression

Role in Health and Disease:

- Essential for normal cellular function and homeostasis

- Dysfunction or mutations in calmodulin can be linked to various diseases, including neurological disorders and muscle diseases.