Reciprocal Modulation of I_K1-I_Na Extends Excitability in Cardiac Ventricular Cells.

ABSTRACT: The inwardly rectifying potassium current (I_K1) and the fast inward sodium current (I_Na) are reciprocally modulated in mammalian ventricular myocytes. An increase in the expression of channels responsible for one of these two currents results in a corresponding increase in expression of the other. These currents are critical in the propagation of action potentials (AP) during the normal functioning of the heart. This study identifies a physiological role for I_K1-I_Na reciprocal modulation in ventricular fiber activation thresholds and conduction. Simulations of action potentials in single cells and propagating APs in cardiac fibers were carried out using an existing model of electrical activity in cardiac ventricular myocytes. The conductances, G<

SUBMITTER: Varghese A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5108932 | biostudies-literature | 2016

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature