Calcium channel blockers caught in the act at atomic level
Wednesday, August 24, 2016 - 14:41
in Biology & Nature
Atomic level analysis has revealed how two classes of calcium channel blockers, widely prescribed for heart disease patients, produce separate therapeutic effects by acting at different sites on the calcium channel molecule. The study looked at the anti-arrhythmia drug verapamil, and the hypertension and angina drug amlodipine. The study was conducted on bacterial calcium channels, which respond to these cardiovascular medicines. The findings could inform the design of better, safer calcium channel blockers for heart beat irregularities, chest pain, and high blood pressure.