What is a potential effect of hypoxia on heart cells?

Hypoxia, a condition characterized by insufficient oxygen availability, significantly impacts heart cells, leading to various physiological responses. When heart cells experience hypoxia, they may become electrically unstable and more excitable. This instability can result in triggered activity, which is abnormal electrical discharges originating from heart cells. Triggered activity occurs when cells repolarize and then generate an action potential prematurely due to the disrupted ionic balance and energy supply. This phenomenon can lead to arrhythmias, where the heart beats irregularly or too quickly, further complicating cardiac function under hypoxic conditions.

The other choices involve effects that either do not align with the physiological responses to hypoxia or contradict typical heart cell behavior under low oxygen conditions. Understanding the mechanics of how hypoxia affects heart cells is crucial for recognizing the importance of maintaining adequate oxygen levels for maintaining normal heart rhythms and function.