Calcium as a molecular target in angiogenesis

The plethora of cellular pathways and events involved in angiogenesis are a prime example of the widespread role of calcium ion flux in biological functions. Indeed, calcium is a main point of intersection for many distinct molecular signaling pathways that promote and modulate angiogenesis. Here, we illustrate some of the important aspects of calcium induction, function, downstream effects, and resulting cellular changes that ensue. We describe some of the main mechanisms of calcium regulation in cells as well as intracellular and cross-membrane flux, highlighting key players that are known to facilitate these events. We review some of the major signaling pathways that tie into angiogenesis, and also describe how cellular phenotypic changes that occur during angiogenesis require processes rich in calcium ion stimulation of gradient shifts. Lastly, we hypothesize on current thinking of the role of calcium as a whole in angiogenic cellular function and propose new insight into calcium as a universal effector molecule and a prime target for therapeutic intervention.