Characterization of calcium signals in human embryonic stem cells and in their differentiated offspring by a stably integrated calcium indicator protein

► Human ESCs were generated to stably express a calcium indicator protein (GCaMP2). ► Cardiomyocytes and neural cells were differentiated from GCaMP2-expressing HESCs. ► Calcium signaling was studied in hESCs, cardiomyocytes and neurons. ► Specific ligand-induced and spontaneous calcium transients were examined. ► Advantages of the GCaMP2 system to the chemical indicators are presented.