Ca(2+)‐regulated cell migration revealed by optogenetically engineered Ca(2+) oscillations

The ability of a single Ca(2+) ion to play an important role in cell biology is highlighted by the need for cells to form Ca(2+) signals in the dimensions of space, time, and amplitude. Thus, spatial and temporal changes in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration are important for determining cell fate. Optogenetic technology has been developed to provide more precise and targeted stimulation of cells. Here, U2OS cells overexpressing Ca(2+) translocating channelrhodopsin (CatCh) were used to mediate Ca(2+) influx through blue light illumination with various parameters, such as intensity, frequency, duty cycle, and duration. We identified that several Ca(2+)‐dependent transcription factors and certain kinases can be activated by specific Ca(2+) waves. Using a wound‐healing assay, we found that low‐frequency Ca(2+) oscillations increased cell migration through the activation of NF‐κB. This study explores the regulation of cell migration by Ca(2+) signals. Thus, we can choose optical parameters to modulate Ca(2+) waves and achieve activation of specific signaling pathways. This novel methodology can be applied to clarify related cell‐signaling mechanisms in the future.