[Recent progress of research on cardiac ion channels]

The paper summarizes the recent progress of research on the structure, function and regulation of cardiac ion channels. The primary structures of voltage-gated Na and Ca channels are homologous, with identical voltage sensors and homologous pore structure. The voltage-gated channels are modulated by sympathetic and vagal transmitters. beta-Stimulants phosphorylate various channels by activating cyclic AMP-dependent kinase, while acetylcholine antagonizes this phosphorylation. The phosphorylation inhibits the Na current by promoting inactivation, increases the L-type Ca current by increasing the channel availability, increases the delayed rectifying K current and induces Cl current. Acetylcholine induces a K current in nodal and atrial cells via a direct binding of beta gamma subunit of GTP-binding protein (GK) to the K channel.