I_f channels as a therapeutic target in heart disease

Authors: Suffredini, Silvia; Mugelli, Alessandro; Cerbai, Elisabetta

Source: Future Cardiology, Volume 3, Number 6, November 2007 , pp. 657-666(10)

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Abstract:

In the normal heart, impulses are generated from the sinoatrial node. It is generally accepted that the pacemaker current, I_f, plays a major role in the spontaneous rhythmic activity. Recently, several electrophysiological and molecular data demonstrate that I_f channels are present in embryonic and post-natal ventricular myocytes and undergo a downregulation during maturation. Interestingly, the I_f current is re-expressed in some pathological conditions such as cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. In these conditions, the overexpression of f-channels is a consequence of electrophysiological remodeling and may represent an arrhythmogenic mechanism in heart failure, a condition associated with high risk for sudden cardiac death. For its physiological and pathophysiological role and the availability of selective f-channel blockers, I_f may be a suitable therapeutic target in heart failure.

Keywords: cardiac remodeling; heart disease; heart-rate lowering drugs; If channels; ivabradine; pacemaker activity; sinoatrial node; ventricular cardiomyocytes

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2217/14796678.3.6.657

Publication date: 2007-11-01

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Future Cardiology reflects the new era of cardiology and highlights new molecular approaches in advancing cardiovascular therapy. The journal publishes clinical research, commentary and therapeutic overviews highlighting optimal therapy and future options and strategies.
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