Calcium Assay Service

Introduction of Calcium in Neurons

Calcium (Ca²⁺) is the essential element released from bone to bloodstream in humans. In neuroscience, calcium (Ca²⁺) plays fundamental and diversified roles. As ubiquitous second messenger in multiple signaling pathways, it has been proved that Ca²⁺ participates in multiple biological functions. The cytosolic Ca²⁺ concentration is regulated by the opening of the plasma membrane and subcellular Ca²⁺ sensitive channels and ultimately leads to the flexibility of Ca²⁺ signaling. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in the cell can accumulate the concentration of Ca²⁺ to 10-100 mM, and the release of Ca²⁺ is mediated by RyRs and IP3Rs. In addition, mitochondria can also store Ca²⁺ and play an important role in Ca²⁺ transients. Due to the central role in neuronal physiology, disruption of Ca²⁺ signaling and homeostasis would result in neurodegenerative disorders, as well as aging. There are two types of plasma membrane Ca²⁺ channels for the regulation of neuronal Ca²⁺ influx, including voltage-dependent Ca²⁺ channels (VDCCs) and receptor-operated (ligand-gated) channels (ROCs).

Fig.1 Cav channel subunit interactions. (Dolphin, 2020)

Functions of Calcium

• Regulation of neuronal gene expression
• Energy production
• Membrane excitability
• Synaptogenesis
• Synaptic transmission
• Development of dendrite
• Memory storage and information process

Fig.2 Some of the pathways modulating Cav2 channel function. (Dolphin, 2020)

Calcium Assay Description

Creative Biolabs provides an easy and quantitative method for the measurement of calcium in different biological fluids. Firstly, N,N,N',N'-tetrakis-(2-pyridylmethyl)ethylenediamine (TPEN) would be used to avoid the influence of other divalent metals, like Zine. Secondary, the proprietary probe can specifically bind to calcium cations and high fluorescence signal can then be generated. Finally, the concentration of calcium can be quantified using a microplate reader as the fluorescence is directly proportional to the amount of calcium.

Features of Our Service

• Simple operation process
• Rapid detection (within 10 minutes)
• High sensitivity
• Wide range of applications
• Multiple sample types

Creative Biolabs is one of the well-recognized experts who are professional in applying advanced platforms for a broad range of neurosciences research, now we provide the novel calcium assay service for our clients all over the world. We are pleased to use our extensive experience to offer the best service and the most qualified products to satisfy each demand from our customers. If you are interested in our services and products, please do not hesitate to contact us for more detailed information.

References

1. Kawamoto, E.; et al. Physiology and pathology of calcium signaling in the brain. Frontiers in pharmacology. 2012, 3: 61.
2. Dolphin, A.; Lee, A. Presynaptic calcium channels: specialized control of synaptic neurotransmitter release. Nature Reviews Neuroscience. 2020, 21(4): 213-229.

For Research Use Only. Not For Clinical Use.