The Inositol Tetrakisphosphate Stimulated Calcium Transporter in Cardiac Membranes

Jester, Lara A., The Inositol Tetrakisphosphate-Stimulated Calcium Transporter in Cardiac Membranes. Master of Science (Biomedical Sciences), December 1998, 61 pp., 13 illustrations, references, 49 titles. Regulation of Ca2+ fluxes across the sarcolemma and sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) are critical for regulation of calcium across the myocardial membranes. Studies were performed on the InsP4 stimulated Ca2+ transporter from both canine and bovine heart tissue to determine the location and ionic conditions under which InsP4 stimulated Ca2+ transporter works most efficiently. The results indicated that the InsP4 stimulated Ca2+ transporter is present in the sarcolemma, and is functional under conditions that are physiologically relevant. These findings may compliment future in vivo or in situ studies that will further examine the role of the InsP4 stimulated Ca2+ transporter in the heart.