Glossary

Calmodulin

Glossary / Calmodulin
Compound

Calmodulin — A calcium-binding messenger protein that mediates many calcium-dependent signaling processes, interacting with numerous peptide substrates.

Category
Compound
Glossary Section
C

What Is Calmodulin?

Calmodulin (CaM) is a 148-residue calcium-binding protein that acts as a universal intracellular calcium sensor. Upon binding 4 Ca²⁺ ions, CaM undergoes a conformational change that exposes hydrophobic surfaces, enabling it to bind and activate target enzymes and channels. CaM-binding peptides are essential research tools for studying calcium-dependent signaling.

Peptide Tools

  • CaM-binding peptides: Amphipathic helical peptides (M13, RS20) that mimic natural CaM targets
  • CaM inhibitor peptides: Block CaM-dependent kinases and phosphatases
  • Melittin: Bee venom peptide that binds CaM with high affinity

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Calmodulin?

A calcium-binding messenger protein that mediates many calcium-dependent signaling processes, interacting with numerous peptide substrates.

Why is Calmodulin important in peptide research?

Calmodulin is a fundamental concept in compound as it relates to peptide science. It directly influences experimental design, compound characterization, and the reliability of research outcomes across biochemistry and molecular biology disciplines.

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