Calcium-sensing receptor
Calcium-sensing receptor
The Calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) is a class C G-protein coupled receptor which senses the levels of extracellular calcium.
Pronunciation
Calcium-sensing receptor is pronounced as /ˈkælsiəm ˈsɛnsɪŋ rɪˈsɛptər/.
Etymology
The term "Calcium-sensing receptor" is derived from its function. "Calcium" is a chemical element, "sensing" refers to the detection or measurement of a signal or stimulus, and "receptor" is a protein molecule that receives and responds to a neurotransmitter or hormone.
Function
The CaSR plays a crucial role in the parathyroid gland where it senses minute changes in plasma calcium concentration and modulates the secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH). It also plays a role in the kidney, thyroid gland, and gastrointestinal tract.
Related Terms
- G-protein coupled receptor: A large protein family of receptors that sense molecules outside the cell and activate cellular responses.
- Parathyroid gland: Small endocrine glands in the neck that produce parathyroid hormone.
- Parathyroid hormone (PTH): A hormone secreted by the parathyroid glands that regulates the serum calcium through its effects on bone, kidney, and the intestine.
- Calcium: A chemical element required for the normal functioning of the body.
- Kidney: A pair of organs in the abdominal cavity of mammals, birds, and reptiles, which excrete urine.
- Thyroid gland: A large ductless gland in the neck which secretes hormones regulating growth and development through the rate of metabolism.
- Gastrointestinal tract: An organ system responsible for consuming and digesting foodstuffs, absorbing nutrients, and expelling waste.
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