Intracellular signalling microdomains in heart

The spatial localisation of intracellular ionic and molecular signalling is critical for co-ordinating various aspects of cell function. The proposed symposium will focus on recent research in the heart to provide an overview of five major intracellular signalling agents that can exhibit spatial compartmentalisation: Ca²⁺, pH, cyclic AMP, nitric oxide, and Ca²⁺/calmodulin. Although changes in the levels of these agents may be localised to intracellular microdomains, either diffusively or structurally, domains may nevertheless display cross-talk that converges on downstream signals, such as that for Ca²⁺.  Appreciating how signalling microdomains are regulated within cells is essential to our understanding of the control of the physiology and pathology of cardiac contraction, rhythm and development. By drawing together talks on a range of signalling microdomains, the symposium will assist future work on their integrated behaviour in the heart.

The symposium will have a broad appeal, not only for cardiac specialists, but also for those interested in cell signalling and integrative function. The spatial control of intracellular signalling, particularly for agents like cAMP, pH and NO,  is a young and emerging field, and therefore not without controversy. The symposium will thus be both appropriate and timely for a wide range of delegates attending IUPS.