Home >> Vascular Disease Prevention, Volume 5, Number 2

The Role of Calcium and the L-Type Calcium Channel in Pathological Remodeling of the Heart

Authors: Viola, Helena M.; Hool, Livia C.

Source: Vascular Disease Prevention, Volume 5, Number 2, May 2008 , pp. 104-115(12)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

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Abstract:

Calcium is integral to cardiac excitation and contraction. The main route for calcium influx into cardiac myocytes is the L-type Ca2+ channel. Once intracellular calcium levels are increased, a number of calcium-dependent signal pathways are activated that can lead to persistent changes in protein synthesis and function. This process is termed “pathological remodeling”. Pathological remodeling of the heart can progress to irreversible changes in heart size and function that ultimately results in heart failure and death. It is well recognized that calcium-dependent pathways contribute to the process of pathological remodeling but reactive oxygen species have also emerged as an important participant in cardiac pathology. The early mechanisms that trigger remodeling have been poorly understood. Recent evidence links calcium influx through the L-type Ca2+ channel with persistent changes in cellular calcium and cellular redox state as a possible early mediator of pathological remodeling.

Keywords: Calcium; L-type Ca2+ channel; hypertrophy; signaling; remodeling

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/156727008784223909

Publication date: 2008-05-01

More about this publication?
  • Vascular Disease Prevention publishes reviews as well as original papers to update all those concerned with this topic at the clinical or scientific level. In addition to clinically relevant topics, we consider reviews and original papers dealing with the more scientific aspects of vascular disease prevention. This includes the evaluation of emerging vascular risk factors, research dealing with the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and the investigation of new treatment options both at the clinical and scientific level (e.g. epidemiology, patient-based studies, experimental models, in vitro experiments or molecular research). Therefore, another function of Vascular Disease Prevention is to bridge the gap between clinical practice and ongoing laboratory-based research.

    In particular, we welcome critical reviews and comments on recent trials. This is a topic that requires regular updates because of the large number of trials published every year.

    Debates are encouraged in the correspondence section of this journal.
    The editorial structure of Vascular Disease Prevention is set up with the aim of dealing with the submitted material as rapidly as possible. Specialist editors will provide a more expert and rapid assessment unlike a more centralized editorial structure.
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