Abstract

Calcium controls many critical events in the complex life cycles of apicomplexan parasites including protein secretion, motility, and development. Calcium levels are normally tightly regulated and rapid release of calcium into the cytosol activates a family of calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs), which are normally characteristic of plants. CDPKs present in apicomplexans have acquired a number of unique domain structures likely reflecting their diverse functions. Calcium regulation in parasites is closely linked to signaling by cyclic nucleotides and their associated kinases. This Review summarizes the pivotal roles that calcium- and cyclic nucleotide-dependent kinases play in unique aspects of parasite biology.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)612-622
Number of pages11
JournalCell Host and Microbe
Volume5
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 18 2009

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Calcium-Dependent Signaling and Kinases in Apicomplexan Parasites'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this