The role of mammalian cardiac t‐tubules in excitation–contraction coupling: experimental and computational approaches

The sarcolemmal membrane of mammalian cardiac ventricular myocytes is characterized by the presence of invaginations called transverse tubules (t‐tubules). Transverse tubules occur at the Z‐line as transverse elements with longitudinal extensions. While the existence of t‐tubules has been known for some time, recent experimental studies have suggested that their structure and function are more complex than previously believed. There are, however, aspects of t‐tubule function that are not currently amenable to experimental investigation, but can be investigated using computational and mathematical approaches. Such studies have helped elucidate further the possible role of t‐tubules in cell function. This review summarizes recent experimental and complementary computational studies which highlight the important role of t‐tubules in cardiac excitation–contraction coupling.