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Updated: Jul 26, 2026

Isolation of Human Atrial Myocytes for Simultaneous Measurements of Ca2+ Transients and Membrane Currents
10:53

Isolation of Human Atrial Myocytes for Simultaneous Measurements of Ca2+ Transients and Membrane Currents

Published on: July 3, 2013

T-type calcium channel blockade in the management of chronic ischemic heart disease

J D Marsh, E M Antman

    Cardiovascular Drugs and Therapy
    |December 2, 2000
    PubMed

    Insights

    Mibefradil, a T-type calcium channel blocker, effectively prevents heart attacks. New T-type channel blockers are being developed for cardiovascular disease treatment.

    Area of Science:

    • Cardiovascular Pharmacology
    • Ion Channel Research

    Background:

    • T-type calcium channels represent a novel therapeutic target for cardiovascular diseases.
    • Mibefradil, a T-type channel blocker, demonstrated cardioprotective effects, including heart rate reduction and coronary vasodilation, without negative inotropy.
    • Unlike L-type channel blockers, Mibefradil's mechanism avoids detrimental effects on cardiac contractility.

    Discussion:

    • The study investigated Mibefradil's efficacy in preventing ischemic episodes, regardless of preceding heart rate changes.
    • Mibefradil's ability to prevent ischemia highlights the therapeutic potential of T-type calcium channel blockade.
    • Despite Mibefradil's withdrawal due to drug interactions, its therapeutic profile warrants further investigation.

    Key Insights:

    • Mibefradil effectively prevents myocardial ischemia.
    • T-type calcium channel blockade offers a promising strategy for managing ischemic cardiovascular events.
    • The absence of negative inotropic effects distinguishes T-type blockers from L-type agents.

    Outlook:

    • New T-type calcium channel blockers are under active development.
    • Further research into novel T-type channel blockers could lead to improved treatments for cardiovascular conditions.
    • Overcoming drug interaction challenges is crucial for the clinical translation of T-type channel blockers.

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