troponin C

Troponin C is a protein found in heart muscle cells that plays a crucial role in muscle contraction. It binds calcium ions when the heart needs to contract, enabling the interaction between other proteins that lead to the tightening of the muscle. During a heart attack or heart muscle damage, troponin C (along with other troponin proteins) can be released into the bloodstream. Measuring levels of troponin in the blood helps doctors diagnose and assess the severity of heart problems, as elevated troponin indicates heart muscle injury.