Calmodulin-mediated regulation of the epidermal growth factor receptor

Abstract

In this review, we first describe the mechanisms by which the epidermal growth factor receptor generates a Ca2+ signal and, subsequently, we compile the available experimental evidence regarding the role that the Ca 2+/calmodulin complex, formed after the rise in cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration, exerts on the receptor. We focus not only on the indirect action that Ca2+/calmodulin exerts on the epidermal growth factor receptor, as a result of the activation of distinct calmodulin-dependent kinases, but also, and more extensively, on the direct interaction of Ca 2+/calmodulin with the receptor. We also describe several mechanistic models that could account for the Ca2+/calmodulin-mediated regulation of epidermal growth factor receptor activity. The control exerted by calmodulin on distinct epidermal growth factor receptor-mediated cellular functions is also discussed. Finally, the phosphorylation of this Ca 2+ sensor by the epidermal growth factor receptor is highlighted. © 2009 FEBS.