SCN5A channelopathies--an update on mutations and mechanisms

Voltage-gated Na+ channels mediate the rapid upstroke of the action potential in excitable tissues. Na(v)1.5, encoded by the SCN5A gene, is the predominant isoform in the heart. Mutations in SCN5A are associated with distinct cardiac excitation disorders often resulting in life-threatening arrhythmias. This review outlines the currently known SCN5A mutations linked to three distinct cardiac rhythm disorders: long QT syndrome subtype 3 (LQT3), Brugada syndrome (BS), and cardiac conduction disease (CCD). Electrophysiological properties of the mutant channels are summarized and discussed in terms of Na+ channel structure-function relationships and regarding molecular mechanisms underlying the respective cardiac dysfunction. Possible reasons for less convincing genotype-phenotype correlations are suggested.