Greater than 98.0% as determined by SDS-PAGE.
Cardiac Troponin T (cTnT) is a protein that plays a crucial role in the contraction of cardiac muscle. It is part of the troponin complex, which also includes troponin I and troponin C. This complex is essential for the regulation of muscle contraction in both skeletal and cardiac muscles. However, the cardiac-specific isoform of troponin T is particularly significant in the context of heart health and disease.
Cardiac Troponin T was discovered by the German physician Hugo A. Katus at the University of Heidelberg . He also developed the troponin T assay, which has become a vital tool in the diagnosis of myocardial infarction (heart attack). The presence of elevated levels of cTnT in the bloodstream is a key indicator of cardiac muscle damage, making it an invaluable biomarker for diagnosing acute coronary syndromes .
The troponin complex, including cTnT, is responsible for coupling the sarcomere contraction cycle to variations in intracellular calcium concentration . Troponin T binds to tropomyosin, helping to position it on actin filaments, and together with the rest of the troponin complex, modulates the contraction of striated muscle . This regulation is crucial for the proper functioning of the heart, as it ensures that the heart muscle contracts and relaxes in a coordinated manner.
The measurement of cTnT levels in the blood is a cornerstone in the diagnosis of myocardial infarction. Elevated levels of cTnT are indicative of cardiac muscle injury, which can occur due to various conditions, including heart attacks, heart failure, and other forms of cardiac stress . The development of high-sensitivity assays for cTnT has further enhanced its diagnostic utility, allowing for the detection of even minor cardiac injuries .
Ongoing research continues to explore the various roles and mechanisms of cTnT in cardiac health and disease. Understanding the precise pathways and interactions involving cTnT can lead to improved diagnostic methods and potential therapeutic targets for cardiac conditions . Additionally, the use of cTnT as a prognostic marker in chronic diseases and its potential role in non-cardiac conditions are areas of active investigation .