Molecular mechanism of cardiac arrhythmia found

AORN Journal, Feb, 2006

Researchers have discovered a molecular mechanism behind a cardiac arrhythmia syndrome that may Lead to sudden death in young, otherwise healthy individuals, according to a Nov 15, 2005, news release from the Duke University Medical Center and Health System, Durham, NC. Researchers have Linked the disorder to a mutation in the gene that codes for the protein ankyrin-B. In a normally functioning heart, the ankyrin-B protein binds with three other proteins to control the flow of chemicals in and out of the heart muscle cells. This flow of ions, especially calcium, controls the beating of the heart. In patients with the ankyrin-B mutation, the protein complex is far less effective in maintaining the balance of calcium, thus increasing the risk for arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death.

This insight into the structure and location of the protein complex and the role of ankyrin-B in the function of the heartbeat will provide researchers with new targets for potential medications to treat the disorder. In addition, the ankyrin-B protein exists in other organ systems, and the findings from this study may provide insight into other disorders, including those involving the linings of the lungs and kidneys, the retina, and the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas.

Mechanism of New "Sudden-Death" Arrhythmia Detailed (news release, Durham, NC: Duke Medical Center News, Nov 15, 2005).