Calmodulin

Definition

Calmodulin is a calcium-binding messenger protein that plays a crucial role in the contraction process of smooth muscle cells by interacting with various enzymes and other proteins to regulate their activity. It acts as an intracellular receptor for calcium ions, which are pivotal for many signaling pathways within the cell.

Related terms

Calcium ions: Essential signaling molecules in cells that, when bound to proteins like calmodulin, trigger various physiological processes including muscle contraction.

Myosin light: chain kinase (MLCK) - An enzyme activated by calmodulin in the presence of calcium ions, playing a critical role in smooth muscle contraction by phosphorylating myosin light chains.

Smooth muscle: A type of muscle tissue that contracts involuntarily and is found in walls of internal organs such as intestines and blood vessels; it operates under control by autonomic nervous system inputs and chemical signals