Ion condensation and signal transduction

摘要: Many abiotic and other signals are transduced in eukaryotic cells by changes the level of free calcium via pumps, channels stores. We suggest here that ion condensation should also be taken into account. Calcium, like counterions, is condensed onto linear polymers at a critical value charge density. Such resembles phase transition has topological basis it promoted as opposed to spherical assemblies charges. Condensed counterions delocalised can diffuse so-called near region along polymers. It generally admitted cytoskeletal filaments, proteins colocalised with these protein filaments distinct from filamentous macromolecules, constitute an intracellular macromolecular network. Here we draw attention fact this network physicochemical characteristics enable counterion condensation. then propose model which feedback relationships between condensation/decondensation activation calcium-dependent kinases phosphatases control density show how might help mediate levels both locally globally. In model, on creates coherent patterns phosphorylation integrate signals. This leads us hypothesize process operates signal transduction, have integrative role serves receptor.