Question

Ion channels within the conduction system of the heart determine the frequency of contractile cycles generated by the heart. Describe the autorhythmic properties of the heart, with particular emphasis on the ion channels involved in the pacemaker potentials.

Answer 1

The autorhythmic properties of the heart are controlled by the pacemaker cells, which depolarize and fire action potentials to determine the heart rate. This depolarization is transferred through gap junctions to other cells in the heart. The ion channels involved in pacemaker potentials include sodium, calcium, and potassium ion channels.

Step-by-step explanation:

The autorhythmic properties of the heart are controlled by the pacemaker cells, which are self-excitable and able to depolarize and fire action potentials on their own.

These cells are connected to surrounding muscle fibers and the heart's conduction system through gap junctions, allowing the depolarization to be transferred and coordinated throughout the heart. The ion channels involved in pacemaker potentials include sodium ion channels, calcium ion channels, and potassium ion channels.