Calcium Signaling in Cardiomyocyte Function

Rhythmic increases in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration underlie the contractile function of the heart. These heart muscle-wide changes in intracellular Ca(2+) are induced and coordinated by electrical depolarization of the cardiomyocyte sarcolemma by the action potential. Originating at the sinoatrial node, conduction of this electrical signal throughout the heart ensures synchronization of individual myocytes into an effective cardiac pump. Ca(2+) signaling pathways also regulate gene expression and cardiomyocyte growth during development and in pathology. These fundamental roles of Ca(2+) in the heart are illustrated by the prevalence of altered Ca(2+) homeostasis in cardiovascular diseases. Indeed, heart failure (an inability of the heart to support hemodynamic needs), rhythmic disturbances, and inappropriate cardiac growth all share an involvement of altered Ca(2+) handling. The prevalence of these pathologies, contributing to a third of all deaths in the developed world as well as to substantial morbidity makes understanding the mechanisms of Ca(2+) handling and dysregulation in cardiomyocytes of great importance.