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Why do calcium receptors play such a critical role in the kidney?
Calcium receptor (CaSR) is a special G protein-coupled receptor, which is mainly responsible for sensing the concentration of extracellular calcium ions. This receptor is found not only in the parathyroid gland, the tubules of the kidneys, and the brain, but also plays a key role in maintaining calcium balance in the body. Especially in the kidneys, calcium receptors influence kidney function by regulating the reabsorption of calcium, sodium, potassium, and water.
Calcium receptors in the kidneys not only play a role in sensing calcium, they also regulate the balance with various other electrolytes and water, affecting the overall physiological condition.
Structural characteristics of calcium receptors
Each element of the calcium receptor has a large N-terminal extracellular domain, which forms a unique swan floating domain (VFT). Calcium receptors also possess seven transmembrane domains (7TM), which together affect the signal transmission process. In the inactive state, the two extracellular regions of the calcium receptor are open. When calcium ions bind, these structures change, initiating signal transmission.
Research shows that signals can only be transmitted when the dimer structure of calcium receptors is activated, which makes it play an extremely important role in organisms.
Signal transduction and its mechanism
After activation, the calcium sensor will initiate the phospholipase C pathway through the Gqα protein, which will lead to an increase in intracellular calcium concentration. This process will further inhibit the release of parathyroid hormone (PTH), thereby affecting calcium metabolism. It is worth noting that calcium receptors not only stimulate the release of calcium, but in some cases inhibit cAMP-dependent pathways.
This series of reaction mechanisms shows the versatility of calcium receptors in kidney function and how it maintains calcium balance through the regulation of hormones.
Relationship between calcium receptors and chronic kidney disease
In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), dysfunction of calcium receptors often results in secondary hypersecretion of parathyroid hormone. This condition not only affects bone density, but may further cause a series of health problems. Therefore, such patients often require dietary modifications to limit calcium, phosphorus, and protein intake to counteract these effects.
However, such dietary modifications can have a negative impact on patients' quality of life, leaving them struggling with limited choices.
Clinical application and future prospects
Currently, the drugs cinacalcet and etelcalcetide, which are calcium receptor modulators, have been used to reduce parathyroid hormone levels. Although these drugs have shown good efficacy in some animal experiments, the results in clinical trials have been less than ideal. Recent research shows that calcium receptors are involved in a wide range of diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, asthma and some cancers.
The localization characteristics of calcium receptors and their role in various physiological processes undoubtedly provide new inspiration and possibilities for drug development.
The role of calcium receptors in taste perception
Calcium receptors are not only involved in endocrine regulation, recent studies have shown that they also play an important role in the sensory evaluation of food. Kokumi is a sensation in the mouth that enhances an existing taste, and research suggests that the expression of calcium receptors in the mouth may explain this phenomenon. When gamma-glutamyl peptide binds to calcium receptors, it increases intracellular calcium release, thereby enhancing the intensity of taste perception.
This phenomenon makes us think deeply. Calcium receptors may play a role in our eating experience that goes beyond physiological regulation. It may even affect our feelings and choices about food.
After in-depth understanding of the multiple roles of calcium receptors, we can't help but wonder: Can we find more effective ways to utilize the properties of calcium receptors in future disease treatments or daily diets to improve overall health?
