The plateau phase of the action potential in cardiac muscle cells is primarily due to the influx of calcium ions (Ca²⁺). During this phase, voltage-gated calcium channels open, allowing Ca²⁺ to enter the cell, which prolongs the depolarization and contributes to the contraction of the heart muscle. This phase is crucial for ensuring that the heart has enough time to contract and pump blood effectively before the repolarization occurs.
The influx of which ion account for the plateau phase?
1 answer