Molecular Classification
Calcium-binding protein, Troponin subunit
Other Names
cTnC, TNNC1
Disease Roles
CardiomyopathyHypertrophic cardiomyopathyDilated cardiomyopathy

Cardiac Troponin C Overview

Cardiac troponin C (cTnC) is a calcium-binding protein that regulates cardiac muscle contraction. It is a subunit of the troponin complex, which controls the interaction between actin and myosin filaments. cTnC senses cytoplasmic calcium levels, triggering conformational changes that relieve the inhibition of actomyosin ATPase, enabling muscle contraction. Mutations in TNNC1, the gene encoding cTnC, are associated with cardiomyopathies. Cardiac troponins, including TnI and TnT, are used as biomarkers for myocardial injury.

Mechanism of Action

Modulation of thin filament regulation

Biological Functions

Calcium sensing
Regulation of cardiac muscle contraction
Excitation-contraction coupling

Disease Associations

Cardiomyopathy
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Dilated cardiomyopathy
Heart failure

Safety Considerations

  • Interference from autoantibodies
  • Interference from macrotroponins

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
Cardiac troponins (TnI, TnT)