How Does Calsequestrin Function at the Molecular Level?
At the molecular level, calsequestrin has a unique structure that allows it to bind multiple calcium ions. This high-capacity binding is due to its negatively charged amino acid residues, which attract and hold calcium ions. When the concentration of free calcium ions in the sarcoplasmic reticulum is high, calsequestrin binds these ions, effectively sequestering them. When the muscle cell is activated, the calcium ions are rapidly released from calsequestrin to initiate muscle contraction.
