Optimal ion channel clustering for intracellular calcium signaling

Ion channels and receptors in the cell membranes and internal membranes are often distributed in discrete clusters. One particularly well-studied example is the distribution of inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptors in the plasma membrane that controls the flux of Ca(2+) from the endoplasmic reticulum into the cytosol. By using mathematical modeling, we show that channel clustering can enhance the cell's Ca(2+) signaling capability. Furthermore, we predict optimal signaling cellular capability at cluster sizes and distances that agree with experimentally found values in Xenopus oocyte.