An examination of some important aspects of ryanodine receptor function, written by experts in the field. Included are reviews of experimental data, critical assessments of the mechanisms of ryanodine receptor activation and regulation, and the role of the channel in controlling intracellular Ca2+ release. The book focuses on the biochemical and biophysical aspects of ryanodine receptor research, with particular emphasis on the single channel properties of reconstituted ryanodine receptors.