Propagation of Cell Death During Myocardial Reperfusion.

During myocardial reperfusion, increased cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration may cause hypercontracture and cell death. Hypercontracture can propagate to adjacent cells by a gap junction-dependent mechanism. This propagation explains infarct geometry and increases the final extent of necrosis. Its prevention may represent a new therapeutic strategy for treating patients with myocardial infarction.