Calcium Sparks in Trout and Zebrafish Hearts
Author Information
Author(s): Llach Anna, Molina Cristina E., Alvarez-Lacalle Enrique, Tort Lluis, Benítez Raul, Hove-Madsen Leif
Primary Institution: Cardiovascular Research Centre CSIC and IIB Sant Pau, Hospital de Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
Hypothesis
Calcium sparks are present in teleost cardiomyocytes and their properties are conserved.
Conclusion
This study is the first to report calcium sparks in teleosts, indicating that the basic features of calcium release through the ryanodine receptor are conserved.
Supporting Evidence
- Calcium sparks were detected in 16 of 38 trout atrial myocytes and 6 of 15 ventricular cells.
- The spark amplitude was 1.45±0.03 times the baseline fluorescence.
- Spark frequency was 0.88 sparks µm−1 min−1.
- Inhibition of SR calcium uptake reduced the calcium transient significantly.
- Elevation of extracellular calcium increased the frequency of afterdepolarizations.
Takeaway
The hearts of fish like trout and zebrafish can release calcium in a way similar to human hearts, which helps them beat properly.
Methodology
Confocal calcium imaging was used to detect calcium sparks in isolated atrial and ventricular myocytes from trout and zebrafish.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on two teleost species and may not represent all teleosts.
Participant Demographics
The study involved trout and zebrafish cardiomyocytes.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.002
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website