Cellular Ca2+ homeostasis and Ca2+-mediated cell processes as critical targets for toxicant action: conceptual and methodological pitfalls.

Because of the central role of the calcium messenger system in diverse functions of tissues, organs, and cells, Ca2+ homeostasis and function may prove to be critical cellular and molecular targets for a diverse range of toxicants. Experimental proof of these targets as a specific site of toxicant action is challenging and technically difficult as a result of the complexity of Ca2+ homeostatic and Ca2+-mediated processes. However, as the investigation of normal physiological control of Ca2+ and function will continue to be an active and productive area of basic research for several years to come, it is anticipated that these insights will be increasingly applied to the understanding of the mechanisms of action of toxic agents.