magnesium ion homeostasis

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process involved in the maintenance of an internal steady state of magnesium ions within an organism or cell. [GOC:dph, GOC:tb]

Magnesium ion homeostasis is a tightly regulated process that maintains the appropriate concentration of magnesium ions (Mg2+) within cells and tissues. This process is essential for numerous cellular functions, including:

* **Enzyme activity:** Mg2+ serves as a cofactor for hundreds of enzymes involved in vital metabolic pathways, such as glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, DNA replication, and protein synthesis.

* **Cellular signaling:** Mg2+ plays a role in various signaling pathways, including those related to neuronal excitability, insulin signaling, and cell growth.

* **Structural integrity:** Mg2+ contributes to the structural integrity of ribosomes, nucleic acids, and cell membranes.

* **Muscle function:** Mg2+ is crucial for muscle contraction and relaxation, as it interacts with troponin and actin.

The regulation of magnesium ion homeostasis involves a complex interplay of several mechanisms:

* **Dietary intake:** The primary source of magnesium is dietary intake from food and beverages. The gastrointestinal tract absorbs magnesium, with the majority occurring in the small intestine. Factors influencing magnesium absorption include dietary intake, age, and vitamin D status.

* **Renal excretion:** The kidneys play a major role in regulating magnesium levels by filtering and reabsorbing it. When magnesium levels are high, the kidneys excrete excess magnesium in urine. When levels are low, the kidneys increase magnesium reabsorption.

* **Hormonal regulation:** Hormones such as parathyroid hormone (PTH), vitamin D, and aldosterone can influence magnesium levels. PTH stimulates renal magnesium reabsorption, while vitamin D promotes intestinal absorption. Aldosterone can increase magnesium excretion.

* **Cellular uptake and release:** Cells actively transport magnesium across their membranes using various transport proteins. These proteins regulate the intracellular magnesium concentration based on cellular needs.

Dysregulation of magnesium homeostasis can lead to various health problems. **Hypomagnesemia** (low magnesium levels) can cause muscle weakness, fatigue, seizures, arrhythmias, and other neurological disorders. **Hypermagnesemia** (high magnesium levels) can lead to muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, and even coma in severe cases.

Maintaining adequate magnesium intake through diet and supplements, as well as addressing underlying medical conditions, is essential for ensuring proper magnesium homeostasis and overall health.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (12)