Progesterone potentiates IP(3)-mediated calcium signaling through Akt/PKB.

The activity of cells critically depends on the control of their cytosolic free calcium ion (Ca(2+)) concentration. The objective of the present study was to identify mechanisms of action underlying the control of the gain of intracellular Ca(2+) release by circulating gonadal steroid hormones. Acute stimulation of isolated neurons with progesterone led to IP(3)R-mediated Ca(2+) transients that depend on the activation of the PI3 kinase/Akt/PKB signaling pathway.

Homer proteins control neuronal differentiation through IP(3) receptor signaling.

Neurons expand, sustain or prune their dendritic trees during ontogenesis [Cline, H.T. (2001).

Polycystin-2 accelerates Ca2+ release from intracellular stores in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Polycystin-2, a member of the TRP family of calcium channels, is encoded by the human PKD2 gene. Mutations in that gene can lead to swelling of nephrons into the fluid-filled cysts of polycystic kidney disease. In addition to expression in tubular epithelial cells, human polycystin-2 is found in muscle and neuronal cells, but its cell biological function has been unclear.