Slow Inward Sodium Channel

The slow inward sodium channel refers to a subset of voltage-gated sodium channels (Na_v) that exhibit incomplete or delayed inactivation, resulting in a persistent or "late" inward sodium current during the plateau phase of the action potential. These currents are particularly relevant in cardiac tissue but also play roles in neurons and other excitable cells. They contribute to action potential duration, diastolic depolarization, and can become pathologically increased in conditions like LQT3, heart failure, and angina, leading to arrhythmias. Certain antiarrhythmic drugs target these slow/persistent components to manage these conditions.

Other names

Persistent sodium currentLate sodium currentI_{Na,Late}

Blockade of sodium channels, preferential inhibition of late/persistent I_{Na}