The basic phenomena of intra- and intercellular communication and the transport signals within and between the cells controlling cardiac function are described and discussed in this volume. The amazing synchronization of millions of cells and billions of nanoscale molecular motors, ion gates, and ion pumps assure normal cardiac function; whereas disharmony and local transport and signal disruptions are the forecasters, and eventual causes, of pathologic conditions and heart failure. Although this volume concentrates on basic phenomena, strong emphasis is given to the related clinical and pharmaceutical manifestations, and chapters have been contributed by molecular biologists, pharmaceutical experts, and cardiac scientists. This volume will promote better understanding and, consequently, better clinical and pharmaceutical handling of the various aspects of cardiac pathophysiologies associated with electrical, mechanical, and metabolic and circulatory disorders in the cardiovascular system. NOTE: Annals volumes are available for sale as individual books or as a journal. For information on institutional journal subscriptions, please visit www.blackwellpublishing.com/nyas. ACADEMY MEMBERS: Please contact the New York Academy of Sciences directly to place your order (www.nyas.org). Members of the New York Academy of Science receive full-text access to the Annals online and discounts on print volumes. Please visit http://www.nyas.org/MemberCenter/Join.aspx for more information about becoming a member.