Cardiac Ion-Channel Proteins

Cardiac ion-channel proteins are pore-forming membrane proteins that regulate the passive flow of ions (such as Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺, and Cl⁻) across the cardiac cell membrane. These channels are essential for generating and propagating the cardiac action potential, which underlies rhythmic contraction and relaxation of heart muscle. The selective permeability and dynamic gating properties of these channels enable precise control over cardiac excitability and contractility. Disruption due to genetic mutations can cause arrhythmias such as Long QT Syndrome (LQTS), Brugada syndrome, etc., often via altered gating/repolarization properties leading to abnormal rhythms and risk of sudden death.

Other names

Cardiac ion channelsCardiac voltage-gated channelsNaV1.5Kv4.xKv1.xhERGKCNQ1Kir2.xCaV