Sensing change: The emerging role of calcium sensors in neuronal disease

Calcium (Ca2+) is a fundamental intracellular signalling molecule in neurons. Therefore, significant interest has been expressed in understanding how the dysregulation of Ca2+ signals might impact on neuronal function and the progression of different disease states. Many previous studies have examined the role of Ca2+ in neuronal excitotoxicity and some have started to understand how Ca2+ dysregulation might be a cause or consequence of neurodegeneration. This review will therefore focus on the significance of Ca2+ sensors, proteins that transduce Ca2+ signals, in neuronal function and dysfunction. Finally, we will assess their potential role in neurodegenerative processes, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), arguing that they could serve as potential therapeutic targets.

► Ca2+ signal dysregulation impairs neuronal function and contributes to neuronal pathology.
► Ca2+ sensors, transducers of Ca2+ signals, are critical in both neuron function and dysfunction.
► We therefore assess the role of Ca2+ sensors in neurodegenerative processes.
► We argue that Ca2+ sensors could serve as potential therapeutic targets.