Ca2+ Cycling in Heart Cells from Ground Squirrels: Adaptive Strategies for Intracellular Ca2+ Homeostasis
Author Information
Author(s): Li Xiao-Chen, Wei Ling, Zhang Guang-Qin, Bai Zai-Ling, Hu Ying-Ying, Zhou Peng, Bai Shu-Hua, Chai Zhen, Lakatta Edward G., Hao Xue-Mei, Wang Shi-Qiang
Primary Institution: State Key Lab of Biomembrane and Membrane Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
Hypothesis
Hibernators are adapted for better maintaining intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis than other mammals.
Conclusion
Heart cells from ground squirrels maintain better intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis compared to those from rats, which may provide insights into strategies against heart diseases.
Supporting Evidence
- Ground squirrel heart cells maintain intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis better than rat heart cells.
- Ground squirrels exhibit a higher threshold for Ca2+ entry, reducing the risk of Ca2+ overload.
- Spontaneous Ca2+ spark frequency is lower in ground squirrels, indicating less Ca2+ leak.
- Ground squirrels have a faster rate of cytosolic Ca2+ removal compared to rats.
- Ground squirrel heart cells show enhanced Ca2+ signaling efficiency in generating contractions.
Takeaway
Ground squirrels have special heart cells that help them keep their calcium levels balanced, even in extreme conditions, unlike regular rats.
Methodology
Electrophysiological and confocal imaging experiments were conducted to compare Ca2+ cycling in heart cells from ground squirrels and rats.
Participant Demographics
Ground squirrels and rats, both weighing 200-250 g.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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