Structure, Function and Modulation of Striated Muscle Calcium Channels

This work focuses on the structure, function and modulation of calcium (Ca2+) channels in striated muscle cells.

Descriptions of the intrinsic membrane proteins that comprise these channels and the manner in which these channels open in response to membrane depolarization to allow CA2+ ions to enter the cell down a steep concentration gradient are given.

Also discussed is the idea that inward movement of positive charge further depolarizes the cell membrane and contributes to pacemaker activity, impulse conduction and the shape of the action potential.

The change in intracellular CA2+ concentration creates a voltage-response transduction that is critical to striated muscle cells.

The role of CA2+ as an intracellular messenger is discussed.