Researchers from the University of British Columbia in Canada have revealed that the beating of heart cells is controlled by sodium and calcium ions moving through the cells. It is thought that this discovery can reveal the cause and new treatment targets for cardiac arrhythmia.
A heart beat is controlled by atoms of sodium, potassium and calcium 
passing through molecular channels between the heart cells; if these channels malfunction or leak it will lead to an irregular heartbeat or heart rhythm disorder. The scientists found that the molecular channels are highly complex and have an associated role with proteins to prevent the channels from being blocked and to control the flow of atoms into the heart. A lack of sodium, or too much sodium, reaching the cells is caused by a genetic mutation and leads to two types of arrhythmia: Brugada Syndrome and Long Q-T type 3.
Treatments for heart rhythm disorders include catheter ablation and a new treatment called laser balloon ablation. For more information on heart arrhythmias please click here.
