The Effect of Magnesium Concentration on Myogenic Cardiac Function: Larval Drosophila

The heart of larval <i>Drosophila</i> serves as a model preparation in addressing cardiac function, as known genetic mutations can be mimicked to examine therapies. Pharmacological agents and function of proteins, like TRPA1, which affect ionic transport and ion concentrations can be investigated for their action on cardiac function in this model. To maintain <i>in-situ</i> function, the larval heart tube needs to remain viable; thus, a physiological saline is required. It was found that a reduced Mg ²⁺ level from the standard saline provides a more stable heartbeat, even in stressful conditions such as heat and increased expression levels of TRPA1 proteins.