Definition
A basic element found in nearly all organized tissues. It is a member of the alkaline earth family of metals with the atomic symbol Ca, atomic number 20, and atomic weight 40. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and combines with phosphorus to form calcium phosphate in the bones and teeth. It is essential for the normal functioning of nerves and muscles and plays a role in blood coagulation (as factor IV) and in many enzymatic processes.
Description
Calcium is essential for the normal growth and maintenance of bones and teeth, and calcium requirements must be met throughout life. Requirements are greatest during periods of growth, such as childhood, during pregnancy and when breast-feeding. Long-term calcium deficiency can lead to osteoporosis, in which the bone deteriorates and there is an increased risk of fractures. Adults need between 1,000 and 1,300 mg of calcium in their daily diet. Calcium is essential for living organisms, particularly in cell physiology, and is the most common metal in many animals. Physiologically, it exists as an ion in the body. Calcium combines with phosphorus to form calcium phosphate in the bones and teeth. It is essential for the normal functioning of nerves and muscles and plays a role in blood coagulation (as factor IV) and in many enzymatic processes. Calcium is an important component of a healthy diet. A deficit can affect bone and tooth formation, while overretention can cause kidney stones. Vitamin D is needed to absorb calcium. Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, are a well-known source of calcium. However, some individuals are allergic to dairy products and even more people, particularly those of non-European descent, are lactose-intolerant, leaving them unable to consume dairy products. Fortunately, many other good sources of calcium exist. These include: seaweeds such as kelp, wakame and hijiki; nuts and seeds (like almonds and sesame); beans; amaranth; collard greens; okra; rutabaga; broccoli; kale; and fortified products such as orange juice and soy milk. Calcium has also been found to assist in the production of lymphatic fluids. Getting too much calcium can cause constipation. It might also interfere with the body's ability to absorb iron and zinc. In adults, too much calcium from dietary supplements might increase the risk of kidney stones. Too much calcium from food sources does not increase that risk.
Top Gene Interactions
Related Pathways
Calcium Health Effects
- Anti allergic
- Anti anxiety
- Anti arrhythmic
- Anti arthritic
- Anti atherosclerotic
- Anti climacteric
- Anti depressant
- Antidote
- Anti hypertensive
- Anti insomniac
- Anti menopausal
- Anti obesity
- Anti osteoporotic
- Anti premenstrual syndrome
- Anti rheumatic
- Anti stress
- Anti tic
- Anxiolytic
- Calcium channel blocker
- Diuretic
- Hypocholesterolemic
- Hypotensive
- Laxative
- Tranquilizer
- Vasodilator
- Anti hyperkinetic
- Anti periodontitic
General Information
- Metabolism:
Route of Elimination: The kidney excretes 250 mmol a day in urine, and resorbs 245 mmol, leading to a net loss in the urine of 5 mmol/d.
- Uses/Sources:
Calcium plays a vital role in the anatomy, physiology and biochemistry of organisms and of the cell, particularly in signal transduction pathways. It is vital in cell signaling, muscular contractions, bone health, and signalling cascades.
Mechanism of Action
| Target Name | Mechanism of Action | References |
|---|---|---|
|
Calmodulin Calcium-transporting ATPase type 2C member 1 Voltage-dependent L-type calcium channel subunit alpha-1C Troponin C, slow skeletal and cardiac muscles Protein S100-B Protein S100-A2 Calpastatin Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein Spectrin beta chain, non-erythrocytic 1 Troponin C, skeletal muscle Programmed cell death protein 6 Alkaline phosphatase, placental type Annexin A5 Matrix Gla protein Extracellular calcium-sensing receptor Ceruloplasmin Protocadherin-19 |
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