Calcium signaling around Mitochondria Associated Membranes (MAMs)

Calcium (Ca(2+)) homeostasis is fundamental for cell metabolism, proliferation, differentiation, and cell death. Elevation in intracellular Ca(2+ )concentration is dependent either on Ca(2+ )influx from the extracellular space through the plasma membrane, or on Ca(2+ )release from intracellular Ca(2+ )stores, such as the endoplasmic/sarcoplasmic reticulum (ER/SR). Mitochondria are also major components of calcium signalling, capable of modulating both the amplitude and the spatio-temporal patterns of Ca(2+ )signals. Recent studies revealed zones of close contact between the ER and mitochondria called MAMs (Mitochondria Associated Membranes) crucial for a correct communication between the two organelles, including the selective transmission of physiological and pathological Ca(2+ )signals from the ER to mitochondria. In this review, we summarize the most up-to-date findings on the modulation of intracellular Ca(2+ )release and Ca(2+ )uptake mechanisms. We also explore the tight interplay between ER- and mitochondria-mediated Ca(2+ )signalling, covering the structural and molecular properties of the zones of close contact between these two networks.