HCN channels: new roles in sinoatrial node function.
Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide gated (HCN) channels pass a cationic current (Ih/If) that crucially contributes to the slow diastolic depolarization (SDD) of sinoatrial pacemaker cells and, hence, is a key determinant of cardiac automaticity and the generation of the heart beat. There is growing evidence, that HCN channel functions in the sinoatrial node (SAN) are not restricted to impulse formation but are also required for impulse propagation. In addition, HCN channels are involved in coordination and maintenance of sinoatrial network activity and, hence, are crucial for stabilizing cardiac rhythmicity. In the present review we will outline these new concepts.
Center for Integrated Protein Science CIPS-M and Zentrum für Pharmaforschung - Department Pharmazie, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany. Electronic address: christian.wahl@cup.uni-muenchen.de.
Christian
C
Wahl-Schott
Center for Integrated Protein Science CIPS-M and Zentrum für Pharmaforschung - Department Pharmazie, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany.
Stefanie
S
Fenske
Center for Integrated Protein Science CIPS-M and Zentrum für Pharmaforschung - Department Pharmazie, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany. Electronic address: mbiel@cup.uni-muenchen.de.
Martin
M
Biel
D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D064428:Hyperpolarization-Activated Cyclic Nucleotide-Gated Channels / Q000502:physiology*; D012849:Sinoatrial Node / Q000502:physiology*
D064428:Hyperpolarization-Activated Cyclic Nucleotide-Gated Channels