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Nakajima T, Haruyama A, Fukuda T, Minami K, Hirose S, Yazawa H, Nakajima T, Hasegawa T, Kitagawa Y, Obi S, Inami S, Oguri G, Shibasaki I, Amano H, Arikawa T, Sakuma M, Abe S, Fukuda H, Toyoda S. Left atrial reservoir strain is a marker of atrial fibrotic remodeling in patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery: Analysis of gene expression. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306323. [PMID: 38976680 PMCID: PMC11230549 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Left atrial strain (LAS) measured by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) is considered to be a marker of LA structural remodeling, but it remains unsettled. We investigated the potential usefulness and clinical relevance of LAS to detect atrial remodeling including fibrosis by analyzing gene expression in cardiovascular surgery patients. Preoperative 2DSTE was performed in 131 patients (92 patients with sinus rhythm [SR] patients including paroxysmal AF [PAF], 39 atrial fibrillation [AF]) undergoing cardiovascular surgery. Atrial samples were obtained from the left atrial appendages, and mRNA expression level was analyzed by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in 59 cases (24 PAF, 35 AF). Mean value of left atrial reservoir strain (mLASr) correlated with left atrial volume index (LAVI), and left atrial conduit strain (mLAScd). mLASr also correlated with left atrial contractile strain (mLASct) in SR patients including PAF. mLASr was significantly lower, and LAVI was higher, in the AF group, compared with SR patients including PAF. The expression of COL1A1 mRNA encoding collagen type I α1 significantly increased in AF patients (p = 0.031). mLASr negatively correlated with COL1A1 expression level, and multivariate regression analysis showed that mLASr was an independent predictor of atrial COL1A1 expression level, even after adjusting for age, sex, and BMI. But, neither mLAScd / mLASct nor LAVI (bp) correlated with COL1A1 gene expression. The expression level of COL1A1 mRNA strongly correlated with ECM-related genes (COL3A1, FN1). It also correlated ECM degradation-related genes (MMP2, TIMP1, and TIMP2), pro-fibrogenic cytokines (TGFB1 encoding TGFβ1, END1, PDGFD, CTGF), oxidant stress-related genes (NOX2, NOX4), ACE, inflammation-related genes (NLRP, IL1B, MCP-1), and apoptosis (BAX). Among the fibrosis-related genes examined, univariable regression analysis showed that log (COL1A1) was associated with log (TGFB1) (adjusted R2 = 0.685, p<0.001), log (NOX4) (adjusted R2 = 0.622, p<0.001), log (NOX2) (adjusted R2 = 0.611, p<0.001), suggesting that TGFB1 and NOX4 was the potent independent determinants of COL1A1 expression level. mLASr negatively correlated with the ECM-related genes, and fibrosis-related gene expression level including TGFB1, NOX2, and NLRP3 in PAF patients. PAF patients with low mLASr had higher expression of the fibrosis-related gene expression, compared with those with high mLASr. These results suggest that LASr correlates with atrial COL1A1 gene expression associated with fibrosis-related gene expression. Patients with low LASr exhibit increased atrial fibrosis-related gene expression, even those with PAF, highlighting the utility of LAS as a marker for LA fibrosis in cardiovascular surgery patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiaki Nakajima
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Akiko Haruyama
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Taira Fukuda
- Department of Liberal Arts and Human Development, Kanagawa University of Human Services, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kentaro Minami
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Suguru Hirose
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hiroko Yazawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Takafumi Nakajima
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Takaaki Hasegawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Kitagawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Syotaro Obi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shu Inami
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Gaku Oguri
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ikuko Shibasaki
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Dokkyo Medical University, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hirohisa Amano
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Takuo Arikawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Masashi Sakuma
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shichiro Abe
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hirotsugu Fukuda
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Dokkyo Medical University, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shigeru Toyoda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University and Heart Center, Dokkyo Medical University Hospital, Mibu, Tochigi, Japan
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Zhang Y, Yuan M, Cai W, Sun W, Shi X, Liu D, Song W, Yan Y, Chen T, Bao Q, Zhang B, Liu T, Zhu Y, Zhang X, Li G. Prostaglandin I 2 signaling prevents angiotensin II-induced atrial remodeling and vulnerability to atrial fibrillation in mice. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:264. [PMID: 38878214 PMCID: PMC11335301 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05259-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia, and atrial fibrosis is a pathological hallmark of structural remodeling in AF. Prostaglandin I2 (PGI2) can prevent the process of fibrosis in various tissues via cell surface Prostaglandin I2 receptor (IP). However, the role of PGI2 in AF and atrial fibrosis remains unclear. The present study aimed to clarify the role of PGI2 in angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced AF and the underlying molecular mechanism. PGI2 content was decreased in both plasma and atrial tissue from patients with AF and mice treated with Ang II. Treatment with the PGI2 analog, iloprost, reduced Ang II-induced AF and atrial fibrosis. Iloprost prevented Ang II-induced atrial fibroblast collagen synthesis and differentiation. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that iloprost significantly attenuated transcriptome changes in Ang II-treated atrial fibroblasts, especially mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-regulated genes. We demonstrated that iloprost elevated cAMP levels and then activated protein kinase A, resulting in a suppression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2 and P38 activation, and ultimately inhibiting MAPK-dependent interleukin-6 transcription. In contrast, cardiac fibroblast-specific IP-knockdown mice had increased Ang II-induced AF inducibility and aggravated atrial fibrosis. Together, our study suggests that PGI2/IP system protects against atrial fibrosis and that PGI2 is a therapeutic target for treating AF.The prospectively registered trial was approved by the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry. The trial registration number is ChiCTR2200056733. Data of registration was 2022/02/12.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Pingjiang Road 23rd, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Meng Yuan
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Pingjiang Road 23rd, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Wenbin Cai
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease-Ministry of Education, Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiang Tai Road 22nd, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Weiyan Sun
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease-Ministry of Education, Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiang Tai Road 22nd, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Xuelian Shi
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease-Ministry of Education, Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiang Tai Road 22nd, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Daiqi Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Pingjiang Road 23rd, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Wenhua Song
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Pingjiang Road 23rd, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Yingqun Yan
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Pingjiang Road 23rd, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Tienan Chen
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Pingjiang Road 23rd, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Qiankun Bao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Pingjiang Road 23rd, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Bangying Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Xichang Road 295th, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Tong Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Pingjiang Road 23rd, Tianjin, 300211, China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease-Ministry of Education, Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiang Tai Road 22nd, Tianjin, 300070, China.
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiang Tai Road 22nd, Tianjin, 300070, China.
| | - Xu Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease-Ministry of Education, Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Tianjin for Medical Epigenetics, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiang Tai Road 22nd, Tianjin, 300070, China.
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Tianjin Medical University, Qixiang Tai Road 22nd, Tianjin, 300070, China.
| | - Guangping Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Pingjiang Road 23rd, Tianjin, 300211, China.
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Pingjiang Road 23rd, Tianjin, 300211, China.
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Lai YJ, Chang SH, Tung YC, Chang GJ, Almeida CD, Chen WJ, Yeh YH, Tsai FC. Naringin activates semaphorin 3A to ameliorate TGF-β-induced endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition related to atrial fibrillation. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31248. [PMID: 38501506 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
The loss of semaphorin 3A (Sema3A), which is related to endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in atrial fibrosis, is implicated in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). To explore the mechanisms by which EndMT affects atrial fibrosis and assess the potential of a Sema3A activator (naringin) to prevent atrial fibrosis by targeting transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)-induced EndMT, we used human atria, isolated human atrial endocardial endothelial cells (AEECs), and used transgenic mice expressing TGF-β specifically in cardiac tissues (TGF-β transgenic mice). We evaluated an EndMT marker (Twist), a proliferation marker (proliferating cell nuclear antigen; PCNA), and an endothelial cell (EC) marker (CD31) through triple immunohistochemistry and confirmed that both EndMT and EC proliferation contribute to atrial endocardial fibrosis during AF in TGF-β transgenic mice and AF patient tissue sections. Additionally, we investigated the impact of naringin on EndMT and EC proliferation in AEECs and atrial fibroblasts. Naringin exhibited an antiproliferative effect, to which AEECs were more responsive. Subsequently, we downregulated Sema3A in AEECs using small interfering RNA to clarify a correlation between the reduction in Sema3A and the elevation of EndMT markers. Naringin treatment induced the expression of Sema3A and a concurrent decrease in EndMT markers. Furthermore, naringin administration ameliorated AF and endocardial fibrosis in TGF-β transgenic mice by stimulating Sema3A expression, inhibiting EndMT markers, reducing atrial fibrosis, and lowering AF vulnerability. This suggests therapeutic potential for naringin in AF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Ju Lai
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Respiratory Care, Chang-Gung University of Science and Technology, Chia-Yi, Puzi, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Hung Chang
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University Tao-Yuan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chang Tung
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University Tao-Yuan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Gwo-Jyh Chang
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University Tao-Yuan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Celina De Almeida
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang-Gung University Tao-Yuan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Jan Chen
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University Tao-Yuan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Hsin Yeh
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University Tao-Yuan, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Feng-Chun Tsai
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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Chen J, Qin H, Hao J, Wang Q, Chen S, Yang G, Li M, Zhu X, Wang D, Chen H, Cui C, Chen M. Cardiac-specific overexpression of CREM-IbΔC-X via CRISPR/Cas9 in mice presents a new model of atrial cardiomyopathy with spontaneous atrial fibrillation. Transl Res 2024; 267:54-66. [PMID: 38199433 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Atrial cardiomyopathy (ACM) forms the substrate for atrial fibrillation (AF) and underlies the potential for atrial thrombus formation and subsequent stroke. However, generating stable animal models that accurately replicate the entire progression of atrial lesions, particularly the onset of AF, presents significant challenges. In the present study, we found that the isoform of CRE-binding protein modulator (CREM-IbΔC-X), which is involved in the regulation of cardiac development and atrial rhythm, was highly expressed in atrial biopsies from patients with AF. Building upon this finding, we employed CRISPR/Cas9 technology to create a mouse model with cardiac-specific overexpression of CREM-IbΔC-X (referred to as CS-CREM mice). This animal model effectively illustrated the development of ACM through electrophysiological and structural remodelings over time. Proteomics and Chip-qPCR analysis of atrial samples revealed significant upregulation of cell-matrix adhesion and extracellular matrix structural components, alongside significant downregulation of genes related to atrial functions in the CS-CREM mice. Furthermore, the corresponding responses to anti-arrhythmia drugs, i.e., amiodarone and propafenone, suggested that CS-CREM mice could serve as an ideal in vivo model for drug testing. Our study introduced a novel ACM model with spontaneous AF by cardiac-specifically overexpressing CREM-IbΔC-X in mice, providing valuable insights into the mechanisms and therapeutic targets of ACM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiuzhou Chen
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Huiyuan Qin
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Jingzhe Hao
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Qing Wang
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Shaojie Chen
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Gang Yang
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Mingfang Li
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xiyu Zhu
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Dongjin Wang
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongwu Chen
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, China.
| | - Chang Cui
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, China.
| | - Minglong Chen
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 300# Guangzhou Road, Nanjing 210029, China
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Amioka M, Kinoshita H, Sairaku A, Shokawa T, Nakano Y. Impact of ABO blood type on the risk of atrial fibrillation recurrence after catheter ablation. AMERICAN HEART JOURNAL PLUS : CARDIOLOGY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 40:100384. [PMID: 38586426 PMCID: PMC10994962 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahjo.2024.100384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Background Blood types are classified based on the specific antigenic characteristics they possess. Despite documented associations between antigens and inflammation, a scarcity of data exists concerning the impact of antigens on atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods OSHOH-rhythm study is a multi-center, prospective observational study of 601 patients who underwent catheter ablation for AF. We examined the correlation between blood type groups and both the incidence and recurrence of AF. Additionally, we analyzed the recurrence of AF across antigenic profiles. Results The frequencies of individual blood types were 239 (39.8 %), 190 (31.6 %), 122 (20.3 %), and 50 (8.3 %) for A, O, B, and AB, respectively, aligning closely with the prevalent blood type distribution among the Japanese populace. During follow-up period (18.8 months, median), AF recurrence occurred in 96 patients (22.4 %) lacking the B antigen (A and O), and 26 patients (15.1 %) possessing B antigen (B and AB), respectively (Log-rank test: P = 0.034). A multivariate analysis demonstrated that blood types lacking the B antigen (hazard ratio [HR], 1.55; 95 % CI, 1.01 to 2.42; P = 0.037), hypertension (HR, 1.51; 95 % CI, 1.05 to 2.17; P = 0.026) and non-paroxysmal AF (HR, 1.70; 95 % CI, 1.17 to 2.47; P = 0.005) were independently associated with the recurrence of AF. Conclusions This study elucidates that, despite the absence of direct correlation between blood types and the occurrence of AF, blood types devoid of the B antigen exhibit an enhanced predisposition to AF recurrence. Nonetheless, the intricate mechanism linking blood type to recurrence remains elusive, warranting further comprehensive foundational research on blood types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michitaka Amioka
- Deparment of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hiroshima General Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kinoshita
- Deparment of Cardiovascular Medicine, Onomichi General Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Akinori Sairaku
- Deparment of Cardiovascular Medicine, NHO Higashihiroshima Medical Center, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Tomoki Shokawa
- Deparment of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hiroshima General Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yukiko Nakano
- Deparment of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima, Japan
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Hsu LA, Yeh YH, Chang CJ, Chen WJ, Tsai HY, Chang GJ. Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) Deficiency, Obesity, and Atrial Fibrillation Susceptibility: Unraveling the Connection. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2186. [PMID: 38396862 PMCID: PMC10888587 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF), characterized by structural remodeling involving atrial myocardial degradation and fibrosis, is linked with obesity and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1). Aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) deficiency, highly prevalent in East Asian people, is paradoxically associated with a lower AF risk. This study investigated the impact of ALDH2 deficiency on diet-induced obesity and AF vulnerability in mice, exploring potential compensatory upregulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme-oxygenase 1 (HO-1). Wild-type (WT) and ALDH2*2 knock-in (KI) mice were administered a high-fat diet (HFD) for 16 weeks. Despite heightened levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) post HFD, the ALDH2*2 KI mice did not exhibit a greater propensity for AF compared to the WT controls. The ALDH2*2 KI mice showed equivalent myofibril degradation in cardiomyocytes compared to WT after chronic HFD consumption, indicating suppressed ALDH2 production in the WT mice. Atrial fibrosis did not proportionally increase with TGF-β1 expression in ALDH2*2 KI mice, suggesting compensatory upregulation of the Nrf2 and HO-1 pathway, attenuating fibrosis. In summary, ALDH2 deficiency did not heighten AF susceptibility in obesity, highlighting Nrf2/HO-1 pathway activation as an adaptive mechanism. Despite limitations, these findings reveal a complex molecular interplay, providing insights into the paradoxical AF-ALDH2 relationship in the setting of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lung-An Hsu
- Cardiovascular Division, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-H.Y.); (C.-J.C.); (W.-J.C.); (H.-Y.T.)
| | - Yung-Hsin Yeh
- Cardiovascular Division, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-H.Y.); (C.-J.C.); (W.-J.C.); (H.-Y.T.)
| | - Chi-Jen Chang
- Cardiovascular Division, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-H.Y.); (C.-J.C.); (W.-J.C.); (H.-Y.T.)
| | - Wei-Jan Chen
- Cardiovascular Division, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-H.Y.); (C.-J.C.); (W.-J.C.); (H.-Y.T.)
| | - Hsin-Yi Tsai
- Cardiovascular Division, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-H.Y.); (C.-J.C.); (W.-J.C.); (H.-Y.T.)
| | - Gwo-Jyh Chang
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan 33305, Taiwan;
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Navarro-Garcia JA, Bruns F, Moore OM, Tekook MA, Dobrev D, Miyake CY, Wehrens XH. In Vivo Cardiac Electrophysiology in Mice: Determination of Atrial and Ventricular Arrhythmic Substrates. Curr Protoc 2024; 4:e994. [PMID: 38372479 PMCID: PMC10883620 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias are a common cardiac condition that might lead to fatal outcomes. A better understanding of the molecular and cellular basis of arrhythmia mechanisms is necessary for the development of better treatment modalities. To aid these efforts, various mouse models have been developed for studying cardiac arrhythmias. Both genetic and surgical mouse models are commonly used to assess the incidence and mechanisms of arrhythmias. Since spontaneous arrhythmias are uncommon in healthy young mice, intracardiac programmed electrical stimulation (PES) can be performed to assess the susceptibility to pacing-induced arrhythmias and uncover the possible presence of a proarrhythmogenic substrate. This procedure is performed by positioning an octopolar catheter inside the right atrium and ventricle of the heart through the right jugular vein. PES can provide insights into atrial and ventricular electrical activity and reveal whether atrial and/or ventricular arrhythmias are present or can be induced. Here, we explain detailed procedures used to perform this technique, possible troubleshooting scenarios, and methods to interpret the results obtained. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol: Programmed electrical stimulation in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Alberto Navarro-Garcia
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, USA
| | - Florian Bruns
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Oliver M. Moore
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, USA
| | - Marcel A. Tekook
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, USA
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, Montréal
| | - Christina Y. Miyake
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, US
| | - Xander H.T. Wehrens
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, US
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, US
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, US
- Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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8
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Kostin S, Richter M, Ganceva N, Sasko B, Giannakopoulos T, Ritter O, Szalay Z, Pagonas N. Atrial fibrillation in human patients is associated with increased collagen type V and TGFbeta1. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CARDIOLOGY. HEART & VASCULATURE 2024; 50:101327. [PMID: 38419608 PMCID: PMC10899732 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2023.101327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Background and aim Atrial fibrosis is an important factor in initiating and maintaining atrial fibrillation (AF). Collagen V belongs to fibrillar collagens. There are, however no data on collagen V in AF. The aim of this work was to study the quantity of collagen V and its relationship with the number of fibroblasts and TGF- b 1 expression in patients in sinus rhythm (SR) and in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods We used quantitative immuhistochemistry to study collagen V in right and left atrial biopsies obtained from 35 patients in SR, 35 patients with paroxysmal AF (pAF) and 27 patients with chronic, long-standing persistent AF (cAF). In addition, we have quantified the number of vimentin-positive fibroblasts and expression levels of TGF-β1. Results Compared to patients in SR, collagen V was increased 1.8- and 3.1-fold in patients with pAF and cAF, respectively. In comparison with SR patients, the number of vimentin-positive cells increased significantly 1.46- and 1.8-fold in pAF and cAF patients, respectively.Compared to SR patients, expression levels of TGF-ß1, expressed as fluorescence units per tissue area, was significantly increased by 77 % and 300 % in patients with pAF and cAF, respectively. Similar to intensity measurements, the number of TGFß1-positive cells per 1 mm2 atrial tissue increased significantly from 35.5 ± 5.5 cells in SR patients to 61.9 ± 12.4 cells in pAF and 131.5 ± 23.5 cells in cAF. In both types of measurements, there was a statistically significant difference between pAF and cAF groups. Conclusions This is the first study to show that AF is associated with increased expression levels of collagen V and TGF-ß1indicating its role in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrosis. In addition, increases in collagen V correlate with increased number of fibroblasts and TGF-β1 and are more pronounced in cAF patients than those in pAF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sawa Kostin
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Manfred Richter
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Kerckhoff-Clinic, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Natalia Ganceva
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Kerckoff-Clinic, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Benjamin Sasko
- Medical Department II, Marien Hospital Herne, Ruhr-University of Bochum, Germany
| | | | - Oliver Ritter
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Brandenburg, Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Zoltan Szalay
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Kerckhoff-Clinic, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Nikolaos Pagonas
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Neuruppin, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Ruppin-Brandenburg, Neuruppin, Germany
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9
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Liu J, Liu X, Luo Y, Huang F, Xie Y, Zheng S, Jia B, Xiao Z. Sphingolipids: drivers of cardiac fibrosis and atrial fibrillation. J Mol Med (Berl) 2024; 102:149-165. [PMID: 38015241 PMCID: PMC10858135 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-023-02391-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Sphingolipids (SLs) are vital constituents of the plasma membrane of animal cells and concurrently regulate numerous cellular processes. An escalating number of research have evinced that SLs assume a crucial part in the progression of tissue fibrosis, a condition for which no efficacious cure exists as of now. Cardiac fibrosis, and in particular, atrial fibrosis, is a key factor in the emergence of atrial fibrillation (AF). AF has become one of the most widespread cardiac arrhythmias globally, with its incidence continuing to mount, thereby propelling it to the status of a major public health concern. This review expounds on the structure and biosynthesis pathways of several pivotal SLs, the pathophysiological mechanisms of AF, and the function of SLs in cardiac fibrosis. Delving into the influence of sphingolipid levels in the alleviation of cardiac fibrosis offers innovative therapeutic strategies to address cardiac fibrosis and AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ximao Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yucheng Luo
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fangze Huang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Xie
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaoyi Zheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Bo Jia
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Stomatological Hospital, School of Stomatology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Zezhou Xiao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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10
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Pancorbo L, Ruipérez-Campillo S, Tormos Á, Guill A, Cervigón R, Alberola A, Chorro FJ, Millet J, Castells F. Vector Field Heterogeneity for the Assessment of Locally Disorganised Cardiac Electrical Propagation Wavefronts From High-Density Multielectrodes. IEEE OPEN JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 5:32-44. [PMID: 38445238 PMCID: PMC10914212 DOI: 10.1109/ojemb.2023.3344349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
High-density multielectrode catheters are becoming increasingly popular in cardiac electrophysiology for advanced characterisation of the cardiac tissue, due to their potential to identify impaired sites. These are often characterised by abnormal electrical conduction, which may cause locally disorganised propagation wavefronts. To quantify it, a novel heterogeneity parameter based on vector field analysis is proposed, utilising finite differences to measure direction changes between adjacent cliques. The proposed Vector Field Heterogeneity metric has been evaluated on a set of simulations with controlled levels of organisation in vector maps, and a variety of grid sizes. Furthermore, it has been tested on animal experimental models of isolated Langendorff-perfused rabbit hearts. The proposed parameter exhibited superior capturing ability of heterogeneous propagation wavefronts compared to the classical Spatial Inhomogeneity Index, and simulations proved that the metric effectively captures gradual increments in disorganisation in propagation patterns. Notably, it yielded robust and consistent outcomes for [Formula: see text] grid sizes, underscoring its suitability for the latest generation of orientation-independent cardiac catheters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Pancorbo
- ITACA InstituteUniversitat Politècnica de València46022ValenciaSpain
| | | | - Álvaro Tormos
- ITACA InstituteUniversitat Politècnica de València46022ValenciaSpain
| | - Antonio Guill
- ITACA InstituteUniversitat Politècnica de València46022ValenciaSpain
| | | | - Antonio Alberola
- Departamento de FisiologíaUniversidad de València46010ValenciaSpain
- Instituto de Investigación INCLIVA46010ValenciaSpain
- CIBER E. Cardiovasculares28029MadridSpain
| | - Francisco Javier Chorro
- CIBER E. Cardiovasculares28029MadridSpain
- Departamento de MedicinaUniversidad de València46010ValenciaSpain
- Instituto de Investigación INCLIVA46010ValenciaSpain
- Servicio de CardiologíaHospital Clínic Universitari de València46010ValenciaSpain
| | - José Millet
- ITACA InstituteUniversitat Politècnica de València46022ValenciaSpain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Cardiovascular28029MadridSpain
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11
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Chen Z, Cheng Z, Ding C, Cao T, Chen L, Wang H, Li J, Huang X. ROS-Activated TRPM2 Channel: Calcium Homeostasis in Cardiovascular/renal System and Speculation in Cardiorenal Syndrome. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2023:10.1007/s10557-023-07531-3. [PMID: 38108918 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-023-07531-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
The transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2) channel is a nonselective calcium channel that is sensitive to oxidative stress (OS), and is widely expressed in multiple organs, such as the heart, kidney, and brain, which is inextricably related to calcium dyshomeostasis and downstream pathological events. Due to the increasing global burden of kidney or cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), safe and efficient drugs specific to novel targets are imperatively needed. Notably, investigation of the possibility to regard the TRPM2 channel as a new therapeutic target in ROS-related CVDs or renal diseases is urgently required because the roles of the TRPM2 channel in heart or kidney diseases have not received enough attention and thus have not been fully elaborated. Therefore, we aimed to review the involvement of the TRPM2 channel in cardiovascular disorders related to kidney or typical renal diseases and attempted to speculate about TRPM2-mediated mechanisms of cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) to provide representative perspectives for future research about novel and effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Chen
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Queen Mary School, Medical Department, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zaihua Cheng
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Congcong Ding
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Tianyu Cao
- Biological anthropology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Ling Chen
- Department of Cardiology, the First People's Hospital of Jiujiang, Jiujiang, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Junpei Li
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.
| | - Xiao Huang
- Department of Cardiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.
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12
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Perike S, Gonzalez-Gonzalez FJ, Abu-Taha I, Damen FW, Hanft LM, Lizama KS, Aboonabi A, Capote AE, Aguilar-Sanchez Y, Levin B, Han Z, Sridhar A, Grand J, Martin J, Akar JG, Warren CM, Solaro RJ, Sang-Ging O, Darbar D, McDonald KS, Goergen CJ, Wolska BM, Dobrev D, Wehrens XH, McCauley MD. PPP1R12C Promotes Atrial Hypocontractility in Atrial Fibrillation. Circ Res 2023; 133:758-771. [PMID: 37737016 PMCID: PMC10616980 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.123.322516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF)-the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia-increases thromboembolic stroke risk 5-fold. Although atrial hypocontractility contributes to stroke risk in AF, the molecular mechanisms reducing myofilament contractile function remain unknown. We tested the hypothesis that increased expression of PPP1R12C (protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 12C)-the PP1 (protein phosphatase 1) regulatory subunit targeting MLC2a (atrial myosin light chain 2)-causes hypophosphorylation of MLC2a and results in atrial hypocontractility. METHODS Right atrial appendage tissues were isolated from human patients with AF versus sinus rhythm controls. Western blots, coimmunoprecipitation, and phosphorylation studies were performed to examine how the PP1c (PP1 catalytic subunit)-PPP1R12C interaction causes MLC2a dephosphorylation. In vitro studies of pharmacological MRCK (myotonic dystrophy kinase-related Cdc42-binding kinase) inhibitor (BDP5290) in atrial HL-1 cells were performed to evaluate PP1 holoenzyme activity on MLC2a. Cardiac-specific lentiviral PPP1R12C overexpression was performed in mice to evaluate atrial remodeling with atrial cell shortening assays, echocardiography, and AF inducibility with electrophysiology studies. RESULTS In human patients with AF, PPP1R12C expression was increased 2-fold versus sinus rhythm controls (P=2.0×10-2; n=12 and 12 in each group) with >40% reduction in MLC2a phosphorylation (P=1.4×10-6; n=12 and 12 in each group). PPP1R12C-PP1c binding and PPP1R12C-MLC2a binding were significantly increased in AF (P=2.9×10-2 and 6.7×10-3, respectively; n=8 and 8 in each group). In vitro studies utilizing drug BDP5290, which inhibits T560-PPP1R12C phosphorylation, demonstrated increased PPP1R12C binding with both PP1c and MLC2a and dephosphorylation of MLC2a. Mice treated with lentiviral PPP1R12C vector demonstrated a 150% increase in left atrial size versus controls (P=5.0×10-6; n=12, 8, and 12), with reduced atrial strain and atrial ejection fraction. Pacing-induced AF in mice treated with lentiviral PPP1R12C vector was significantly higher than in controls (P=1.8×10-2 and 4.1×10-2, respectively; n=6, 6, and 5). CONCLUSIONS Patients with AF exhibit increased levels of PPP1R12C protein compared with controls. PPP1R12C overexpression in mice increases PP1c targeting to MLC2a and causes MLC2a dephosphorylation, which reduces atrial contractility and increases AF inducibility. These findings suggest that PP1 regulation of sarcomere function at MLC2a is a key determinant of atrial contractility in AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikanth Perike
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and the Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Francisco J. Gonzalez-Gonzalez
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and the Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Issam Abu-Taha
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Germany
| | - Frederick W. Damen
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
| | - Laurin M. Hanft
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia
| | - Ken S. Lizama
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and the Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Anahita Aboonabi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and the Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Andrielle E. Capote
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and the Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Yuriana Aguilar-Sanchez
- Department of Integrative Physiology and The Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | | | - Zhenbo Han
- Department of Pharmacology and Regenerative Medicine, College of Medicine,University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Arvind Sridhar
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Jacob Grand
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | | | | | - Chad M. Warren
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and the Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - R. John Solaro
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and the Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Ong Sang-Ging
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Department of Pharmacology and Regenerative Medicine, College of Medicine,University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Dawood Darbar
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and the Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Kerry S. McDonald
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia
| | - Craig J. Goergen
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
| | - Beata M. Wolska
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and the Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Germany
- Department of Integrative Physiology and The Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
- Department of Medicine, Montréal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Xander H.T. Wehrens
- Department of Integrative Physiology and The Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | - Mark D. McCauley
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and the Center for Cardiovascular Research, University of Illinois at Chicago
- Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Chicago, IL
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13
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Ramos-Mondragón R, Lozhkin A, Vendrov AE, Runge MS, Isom LL, Madamanchi NR. NADPH Oxidases and Oxidative Stress in the Pathogenesis of Atrial Fibrillation. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1833. [PMID: 37891912 PMCID: PMC10604902 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12101833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia and its prevalence increases with age. The irregular and rapid contraction of the atria can lead to ineffective blood pumping, local blood stasis, blood clots, ischemic stroke, and heart failure. NADPH oxidases (NOX) and mitochondria are the main sources of reactive oxygen species in the heart, and dysregulated activation of NOX and mitochondrial dysfunction are associated with AF pathogenesis. NOX- and mitochondria-derived oxidative stress contribute to the onset of paroxysmal AF by inducing electrophysiological changes in atrial myocytes and structural remodeling in the atria. Because high atrial activity causes cardiac myocytes to expend extremely high energy to maintain excitation-contraction coupling during persistent AF, mitochondria, the primary energy source, undergo metabolic stress, affecting their morphology, Ca2+ handling, and ATP generation. In this review, we discuss the role of oxidative stress in activating AF-triggered activities, regulating intracellular Ca2+ handling, and functional and anatomical reentry mechanisms, all of which are associated with AF initiation, perpetuation, and progression. Changes in the extracellular matrix, inflammation, ion channel expression and function, myofibril structure, and mitochondrial function occur during the early transitional stages of AF, opening a window of opportunity to target NOX and mitochondria-derived oxidative stress using isoform-specific NOX inhibitors and mitochondrial ROS scavengers, as well as drugs that improve mitochondrial dynamics and metabolism to treat persistent AF and its transition to permanent AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Ramos-Mondragón
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, 1150 West Medical Center Drive, 2301 Medical Science Research Building III, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (R.R.-M.); (L.L.I.)
| | - Andrey Lozhkin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Frankel Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48019, USA; (A.L.); (A.E.V.); (M.S.R.)
| | - Aleksandr E. Vendrov
- Department of Internal Medicine, Frankel Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48019, USA; (A.L.); (A.E.V.); (M.S.R.)
| | - Marschall S. Runge
- Department of Internal Medicine, Frankel Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48019, USA; (A.L.); (A.E.V.); (M.S.R.)
| | - Lori L. Isom
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, 1150 West Medical Center Drive, 2301 Medical Science Research Building III, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (R.R.-M.); (L.L.I.)
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Nageswara R. Madamanchi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Frankel Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48019, USA; (A.L.); (A.E.V.); (M.S.R.)
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14
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Zhang MJ, Gyberg DJ, Healy CL, Zhang N, Liu H, Dudley SC, O’Connell TD. Atrial Myopathy Quantified by Speckle-tracking Echocardiography in Mice. Circ Cardiovasc Imaging 2023; 16:e015735. [PMID: 37795649 PMCID: PMC10591948 DOI: 10.1161/circimaging.123.015735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging evidence suggests that atrial myopathy may be the underlying pathophysiology that explains adverse cardiovascular outcomes in heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation. Lower left atrial (LA) function (strain) is a key biomarker of atrial myopathy, but murine LA strain has not been described, thus limiting translational investigation. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize LA function by speckle-tracking echocardiography in mouse models of atrial myopathy. METHODS We used 3 models of atrial myopathy in wild-type male and female C57Bl6/J mice: (1) aged 16 to 17 months, (2) Ang II (angiotensin II) infusion, and (3) high-fat diet+Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (HF with preserved ejection fraction, HFpEF). LA reservoir, conduit, and contractile strain were measured using speckle-tracking echocardiography from a modified parasternal long-axis window. Left ventricular systolic and diastolic function, and global longitudinal strain were also measured. Transesophageal rapid atrial pacing was used to induce atrial fibrillation. RESULTS LA reservoir, conduit, and contractile strain were significantly reduced in aged, Ang II and HFpEF mice compared with young controls. There were no sex-based interactions. Left ventricular diastolic function and global longitudinal strain were lower in aged, Ang II and HFpEF, but left ventricular ejection fraction was unchanged. Atrial fibrillation inducibility was low in young mice (5%), moderately higher in aged mice (20%), and high in Ang II (75%) and HFpEF (83%) mice. CONCLUSIONS Using speckle-tracking echocardiography, we observed reduced LA function in established mouse models of atrial myopathy with concurrent atrial fibrillation inducibility, thus providing the field with a timely and clinically relevant platform for understanding the pathophysiology and discovery of novel treatment targets for atrial myopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Zhang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Division, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
- Lillehei Heart Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Dylan J. Gyberg
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Chastity L. Healy
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Naixin Zhang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Hong Liu
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Division, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
- Lillehei Heart Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Samuel C. Dudley
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Division, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
- Lillehei Heart Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Timothy D. O’Connell
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
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15
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Wu Y, Zhan S, Chen L, Sun M, Li M, Mou X, Zhang Z, Xu L, Xu Y. TNFSF14/LIGHT promotes cardiac fibrosis and atrial fibrillation vulnerability via PI3Kγ/SGK1 pathway-dependent M2 macrophage polarisation. J Transl Med 2023; 21:544. [PMID: 37580750 PMCID: PMC10424430 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04381-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumour necrosis factor superfamily protein 14 (TNFSF14), also called LIGHT, is an important regulator of immunological and fibrosis diseases. However, its specific involvement in cardiac fibrosis and atrial fibrillation (AF) has not been fully elucidated. The objective of this study is to examine the influence of LIGHT on the development of myocardial fibrosis and AF. METHODS PCR arrays of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with AF and sinus rhythm was used to identify the dominant differentially expressed genes, followed by ELISA to evaluate its serum protein levels. Morphological, functional, and electrophysiological changes in the heart were detected in vivo after the tail intravenous injection of recombinant LIGHT (rLIGHT) in mice for 4 weeks. rLIGHT was used to stimulate bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) to prepare a macrophage-conditioned medium (MCM) in vitro. Then, the MCM was used to culture mouse cardiac fibroblasts (CFs). The expression of relevant proteins and genes was determined using qRT-PCR, western blotting, and immunostaining. RESULTS The mRNA levels of LIGHT and TNFRSF14 were higher in the PBMCs of patients with AF than in those of the healthy controls. Additionally, the serum protein levels of LIGHT were higher in patients with AF than those in the healthy controls and were correlated with left atrial reverse remodelling. Furthermore, we demonstrated that rLIGHT injection promoted macrophage infiltration and M2 polarisation in the heart, in addition to promoting atrial fibrosis and AF inducibility in vivo, as detected with MASSON staining and atrial burst pacing respectively. RNA sequencing of heart samples revealed that the PI3Kγ/SGK1 pathway may participate in these pathological processes. Therefore, we confirmed the hypothesis that rLIGHT promotes BMDM M2 polarisation and TGB-β1 secretion, and that this process can be inhibited by PI3Kγ and SGK1 inhibitors in vitro. Meanwhile, increased collagen synthesis and myofibroblast transition were observed in LIGHT-stimulated MCM-cultured CFs and were ameliorated in the groups treated with PI3Kγ and SGK1 inhibitors. CONCLUSION LIGHT protein levels in peripheral blood can be used as a prognostic marker for AF and to evaluate its severity. LIGHT promotes cardiac fibrosis and AF inducibility by promoting macrophage M2 polarisation, wherein PI3Kγ and SGK1 activation is indispensable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yirong Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Siyao Zhan
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Lian Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Mingrui Sun
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Miaofu Li
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Xuanting Mou
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310006, China
| | - Linhao Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310006, China.
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310006, China.
| | - Yizhou Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310006, China.
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16
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is by far the most common cardiac arrhythmia. In about 3% of individuals, AF develops as a primary disorder without any identifiable trigger (idiopathic or historically termed lone AF). In line with the emerging field of autoantibody-related cardiac arrhythmias, the objective of this study was to explore whether autoantibodies targeting cardiac ion channels can underlie unexplained AF. METHODS Peptide microarray was used to screen patient samples for autoantibodies. We compared patients with unexplained AF (n=37 pre-existent AF; n=14 incident AF on follow-up) to age- and sex-matched controls (n=37). Electrophysiological properties of the identified autoantibody were then tested in vitro with the patch clamp technique and in vivo with an experimental mouse model of immunization. RESULTS A common autoantibody response against Kir3.4 protein was detected in patients with AF and even before the development of clinically apparent AF. Kir3.4 protein forms a heterotetramer that underlies the cardiac acetylcholine-activated inwardly rectifying K+ current, IKACh. Functional studies on human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived atrial cardiomyocytes showed that anti-Kir3.4 IgG purified from patients with AF shortened action potentials and enhanced the constitutive form of IKACh, both key mediators of AF. To establish a causal relationship, we developed a mouse model of Kir3.4 autoimmunity. Electrophysiological study in Kir3.4-immunized mice showed that Kir3.4 autoantibodies significantly reduced atrial effective refractory period and predisposed animals to a 2.8-fold increased susceptibility to AF. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first report of an autoimmune pathogenesis of AF with direct evidence of Kir3.4 autoantibody-mediated AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ange Maguy
- Institute of Physiology, University of Bern, Switzerland (A.M.)
| | | | - Jean-Claude Tardif
- Montreal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal, Canada (J.-C.T., D.B.)
| | - David Busseuil
- Montreal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal, Canada (J.-C.T., D.B.)
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Switzerland (J.L.)
- Center for Translational and Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Schlieren, Switzerland (J.L.)
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17
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Kim K, Blackwell DJ, Yuen SL, Thorpe MP, Johnston JN, Cornea RL, Knollmann BC. The selective RyR2 inhibitor ent-verticilide suppresses atrial fibrillation susceptibility caused by Pitx2 deficiency. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2023; 180:1-9. [PMID: 37080450 PMCID: PMC10330243 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2023.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia and a major cause of stroke and morbidity. The strongest genetic risk factors for AF in humans are variants on chromosome 4q25, near the paired-like homeobox transcription factor 2 gene PITX2. Although mice deficient in Pitx2 (Pitx2+/-) have increased AF susceptibility, the mechanism remains controversial. Recent evidence has implicated hyperactivation of the cardiac ryanodine receptor (RyR2) in Pitx2 deficiency, which may be associated with AF susceptibility. We investigated pacing-induced AF susceptibility and spontaneous Ca2+ release events in Pitx2 haploinsufficient (+/-) mice and isolated atrial myocytes to test the hypothesis that hyperactivity of RyR2 increases susceptibility to AF, which can be prevented by a potent and selective RyR2 channel inhibitor, ent-verticilide. Compared with littermate wild-type Pitx2+/+, the frequency of Ca2+ sparks and spontaneous Ca2+ release events increased in permeabilized and intact atrial myocytes from Pitx2+/- mice. Atrial burst pacing consistently increased the incidence and duration of AF in Pitx2+/- mice. The RyR2 inhibitor ent-verticilide significantly reduced the frequency of spontaneous Ca2+ release in intact atrial myocytes and attenuated AF susceptibility with reduced AF incidence and duration. Our data demonstrate that RyR2 hyperactivity enhances SR Ca2+ leak and AF inducibility in Pitx2+/- mice via abnormal Ca2+ handling. Therapeutic targeting of hyperactive RyR2 in AF using ent-verticilide may be a viable mechanism-based approach to treat atrial arrhythmias caused by Pitx2 deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungsoo Kim
- Vanderbilt Center for Arrhythmia Research and Therapeutics, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Daniel J Blackwell
- Vanderbilt Center for Arrhythmia Research and Therapeutics, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Samantha L Yuen
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Madelaine P Thorpe
- Department of Chemistry and Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jeffrey N Johnston
- Department of Chemistry and Vanderbilt Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Razvan L Cornea
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Björn C Knollmann
- Vanderbilt Center for Arrhythmia Research and Therapeutics, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
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18
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Chaigne S, Barbeau S, Ducret T, Guinamard R, Benoist D. Pathophysiological Roles of the TRPV4 Channel in the Heart. Cells 2023; 12:1654. [PMID: 37371124 DOI: 10.3390/cells12121654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) channel is a non-selective cation channel that is mostly permeable to calcium (Ca2+), which participates in intracellular Ca2+ handling in cardiac cells. It is widely expressed through the body and is activated by a large spectrum of physicochemical stimuli, conferring it a role in a variety of sensorial and physiological functions. Within the cardiovascular system, TRPV4 expression is reported in cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells (ECs) and smooth muscle cells (SMCs), where it modulates mitochondrial activity, Ca2+ homeostasis, cardiomyocytes electrical activity and contractility, cardiac embryonic development and fibroblast proliferation, as well as vascular permeability, dilatation and constriction. On the other hand, TRPV4 channels participate in several cardiac pathological processes such as the development of cardiac fibrosis, hypertrophy, ischemia-reperfusion injuries, heart failure, myocardial infarction and arrhythmia. In this manuscript, we provide an overview of TRPV4 channel implications in cardiac physiology and discuss the potential of the TRPV4 channel as a therapeutic target against cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Chaigne
- IHU LIRYC Electrophysiology and Heart Modeling Institute, Fondation Bordeaux Université, 33600 Bordeaux, France
- Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, INSERM U1045, University of Bordeaux, 33600 Pessac, France
- Electrophysiology and Ablation Unit, Bordeaux University Hospital, 33604 Pessac, France
| | - Solène Barbeau
- Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, INSERM U1045, University of Bordeaux, 33600 Pessac, France
| | - Thomas Ducret
- Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, INSERM U1045, University of Bordeaux, 33600 Pessac, France
| | - Romain Guinamard
- UR4650, Physiopathologie et Stratégies d'Imagerie du Remodelage Cardiovasculaire, GIP Cyceron, Université de Caen Normandie, 14032 Caen, France
| | - David Benoist
- IHU LIRYC Electrophysiology and Heart Modeling Institute, Fondation Bordeaux Université, 33600 Bordeaux, France
- Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, INSERM U1045, University of Bordeaux, 33600 Pessac, France
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19
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Attaallah A, Elmrazeky AR, El-Beltagy AEFBM, Abdelaziz KK, Soliman MF. Modulatory role of Coriandrum sativum (coriander) extract against diabetic complications on the gonads of female rats and their offspring. Tissue Cell 2023; 83:102127. [PMID: 37331322 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2023.102127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
It is well known that diabetes is associated with impairment of ovarian and testicular structure and function. Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) is identified as one of the oldest herbal plants valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties. This work is mainly designed to evaluate the possible modulatory role of dry coriander fruit extract against gonadal impairments associated with diabetes in female rats and their pups. Twenty-four pregnant rats were divided into four groups (n = 6): group I served as control, group II was administered daily with coriander fruit extract (250 mg/kg b.wt), group III was injected interaperitoneally with a single dose of streptozotocin (STZ) (80 mg/kg b.wt), and group IV was injected with single dose of STZ and post administered coriander extract. The experiment was conducted from the 4th day of gestation till the end of weaning. At the end of the experiment, the mothers' rats and their offspring were weighed, sacrificed, the ovaries from mothers as well as ovaries and testes from offspring were immediately excised, and processed for histological, immunohistochemical and evaluation of apoptosis and transforming growth factorβ (TGF-β). Also, blood samples were collected and analyzed to estimate the levels of sex hormones as well as antioxidants.In STZ induced diabetes in mother's rats and their offspring, the ovarian sections revealed severe histopathological signs included several atretic follicles, dilated and congested blood capillaries. Additionally, the testicular sections of offspring appeared with destructive seminiferous tubules. Immunohistochemically, the ovarian sections displayed weak to negative expression for calretinin marker however the testicular sections showed strong expression for Bax protein (apoptotic marker) and weak to negative expression for Ki67 protein (proliferative marker). Also, the mean % values of positively expressed cells for TGF-β and annexin-v markers (late and early apoptosis indicator) were significantly elevated in the ovarian and testicular tissues of STZ-induced group of mother's rats and their pups if compared with control. Further results revealed that the levels of insulin, FSH, LH, estrogen, SOD and CAT were significantly decreased if compared with control however the levels of MDA and NO were significantly elevated. Administration of coriander fruit extract to diabetic rats successfully alleviated most of the altered histological, immunohistochemical, biochemical, and apoptotic changes induced by diabetes. Coriandrum sativum fruit extract has a powerful ameliorative role against STZ-induced diabetic gonadal dysfunctions in female rats and their offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amany Attaallah
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Damanhur University, Egypt.
| | | | | | | | - Mona Fm Soliman
- Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt
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20
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Zang X, Zhao Z, Chen K, Song W, Ma J, Fu H, Wang X, Zhao Y. SHP-1 alleviates atrial fibrosis in atrial fibrillation by modulating STAT3 activation. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:979-990. [PMID: 37226737 PMCID: PMC10525403 DOI: 10.1177/15353702231165717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Src homology 2 domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 1 (SHP-1) has a well-established role in myocardial infarction, yet its involvement in atrial fibrosis and atrial fibrillation (AF) has not been elucidated. As cardiac arrhythmias caused by AF are a major global health concern, we investigated whether SHP-1 modulates AF development. The degree of atrial fibrosis was examined using Masson's trichrome staining, and SHP-1 expression in the human atrium was assessed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and western blotting (WB). We also examined SHP-1 expression in cardiac tissue from an AF mouse model, as well as in angiotensin II (Ang II)-treated mouse atrial myocytes and fibroblasts. We found that SHP-1 expression was reduced with the aggravation of atrial fibrosis in clinical samples of patients with AF. SHP-1 was also downregulated in the heart tissue of AF mice and Ang II-treated myocytes and fibroblasts, compared with that in the control groups. Next, we demonstrated that SHP-1 overexpression alleviated AF severity in mice by injecting a lentiviral vector into the pericardial space. In Ang II-treated myocytes and fibroblasts, we observed excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1)/mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2 (SMAD2) pathway activation, all of which were counteracted by the overexpression of SHP-1. Our WB data showed that STAT3 activation was inversely correlated with SHP-1 expression in samples from patients with AF, AF mice, and Ang II-treated cells. Furthermore, administration of colivelin, a STAT3 agonist, in SHP-1-overexpressing, Ang II-treated myocytes and fibroblasts resulted in higher levels of ECM deposition, ROS generation, and TGF-β1/SMAD2 activation. These findings indicate that SHP-1 regulates AF fibrosis progression by modulating STAT3 activation and is thus a potential treatment target for atrial fibrosis and AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobiao Zang
- Department of Cardiology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Fuwai Central China Cardiovascular Hospital, Zhengzhou 451460, China
| | - Zhihan Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Fuwai Central China Cardiovascular Hospital, Zhengzhou 451460, China
| | - Ke Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Fuwai Central China Cardiovascular Hospital, Zhengzhou 451460, China
| | - Weifeng Song
- Department of Cardiology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Fuwai Central China Cardiovascular Hospital, Zhengzhou 451460, China
| | - Jifang Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Fuwai Central China Cardiovascular Hospital, Zhengzhou 451460, China
| | - Haixia Fu
- Department of Cardiology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Fuwai Central China Cardiovascular Hospital, Zhengzhou 451460, China
| | - Xianqing Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Fuwai Central China Cardiovascular Hospital, Zhengzhou 451460, China
| | - Yonghui Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Fuwai Central China Cardiovascular Hospital, Zhengzhou 451460, China
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21
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Keefe JA, Hulsurkar MM, Reilly S, Wehrens XHT. Mouse models of spontaneous atrial fibrillation. Mamm Genome 2023; 34:298-311. [PMID: 36173465 PMCID: PMC10898345 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-022-09964-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in adults, with a prevalence increasing with age. Current clinical management of AF is focused on tertiary prevention (i.e., treating the symptoms and sequelae) rather than addressing the underlying molecular pathophysiology. Robust animal models of AF, particularly those that do not require supraphysiologic stimuli to induce AF (i.e., showing spontaneous AF), enable studies that can uncover the underlying mechanisms of AF. Several mouse models of AF have been described to exhibit spontaneous AF, but pathophysiologic drivers of AF differ among models. Here, we describe relevant AF mechanisms and provide an overview of large and small animal models of AF. We then provide an in-depth review of the spontaneous mouse models of AF, highlighting the relevant AF mechanisms for each model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A Keefe
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, BCM335, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Mohit M Hulsurkar
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, BCM335, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Svetlana Reilly
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Xander H T Wehrens
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, BCM335, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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22
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Perike S, Gonzalez-Gonzalez FJ, Abu-Taha I, Damen FW, Lizama KS, Aboonabi A, Capote AE, Aguilar-Sanchez Y, Levin B, Han Z, Sridhar A, Grand J, Martin J, Akar JG, Warren CM, Solaro RJ, Ong SG, Darbar D, Goergen CJ, Wolska BM, Dobrev D, Wehrens XHT, McCauley MD. Myosin Light Chain Dephosphorylation by PPP1R12C Promotes Atrial Hypocontractility in Atrial Fibrillation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.19.537590. [PMID: 37131731 PMCID: PMC10153354 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.19.537590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Background Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, increases thromboembolic stroke risk five-fold. Although atrial hypocontractility contributes to stroke risk in AF, the molecular mechanisms reducing myofilament contractile function remain unknown. We tested the hypothesis that increased expression of PPP1R12C, the PP1 regulatory subunit targeting atrial myosin light chain 2 (MLC2a), causes hypophosphorylation of MLC2a and results in atrial hypocontractility. Methods Right atrial appendage tissues were isolated from human AF patients versus sinus rhythm (SR) controls. Western blots, co-immunoprecipitation, and phosphorylation studies were performed to examine how the PP1c-PPP1R12C interaction causes MLC2a de-phosphorylation. In vitro studies of pharmacologic MRCK inhibitor (BDP5290) in atrial HL-1 cells were performed to evaluate PP1 holoenzyme activity on MLC2a. Cardiac-specific lentiviral PPP1R12C overexpression was performed in mice to evaluate atrial remodeling with atrial cell shortening assays, echocardiography, and AF inducibility with EP studies. Results In human patients with AF, PPP1R12C expression was increased two-fold versus SR controls ( P =2.0×10 -2 , n=12,12 in each group) with > 40% reduction in MLC2a phosphorylation ( P =1.4×10 -6 , n=12,12 in each group). PPP1R12C-PP1c binding and PPP1R12C-MLC2a binding were significantly increased in AF ( P =2.9×10 -2 and 6.7×10 -3 respectively, n=8,8 in each group). In vitro studies utilizing drug BDP5290, which inhibits T560-PPP1R12C phosphorylation, demonstrated increased PPP1R12C binding with both PP1c and MLC2a, and dephosphorylation of MLC2a. Lenti-12C mice demonstrated a 150% increase in LA size versus controls ( P =5.0×10 -6 , n=12,8,12), with reduced atrial strain and atrial ejection fraction. Pacing-induced AF in Lenti-12C mice was significantly higher than controls ( P =1.8×10 -2 and 4.1×10 -2 respectively, n= 6,6,5). Conclusions AF patients exhibit increased levels of PPP1R12C protein compared to controls. PPP1R12C overexpression in mice increases PP1c targeting to MLC2a and causes MLC2a dephosphorylation, which reduces atrial contractility and increases AF inducibility. These findings suggest that PP1 regulation of sarcomere function at MLC2a is a key determinant of atrial contractility in AF.
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23
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Al-U'datt DGF, Tranchant CC, Alu'datt M, Abusara S, Al-Dwairi A, AlQudah M, Al-Shboul O, Hiram R, Altuntas Y, Jaradat S, Alzoubi KH. Inhibition of transglutaminase 2 (TG2) ameliorates ventricular fibrosis in isoproterenol-induced heart failure in rats. Life Sci 2023; 321:121564. [PMID: 36931499 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Transglutaminase (TG) inhibitors represent promising therapeutic interventions in cardiac fibrosis and related dysfunctions. However, it remains unknown how TG inhibition, TG2 in particular, affects the signaling systems that drive pathological fibrosis. This study aimed to examine the effect TG inhibition by cystamine on the progression of isoproterenol (ISO)-induced cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Cardiac fibrosis was established by intraperitoneal injection of ISO to rats (ISO group), followed by 6 weeks of cystamine injection (ISO + Cys group). The control groups were administered normal saline alone or with cystamine. Hemodynamics, lipid profile, liver enzymes, urea, and creatinine were assessed in conjunction with heart failure markers (serum NT-proANP and cTnI). Left ventricular (LV) and atrial (LA) fibrosis, total collagen content, and mRNA expression of profibrotic markers including TG2 were quantified by Masson's trichrome staining, LC-MS/MS and quantitative PCR, respectively. KEY FINDINGS Cystamine administration to ISO rats significantly decreased diastolic and mean arterial pressures, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, liver enzymes, urea, and creatinine levels, while increasing HDL. NT-proANP and cTnI serum levels remained unchanged. In LV tissues, significant reductions in ISO-induced fibrosis and elevated total collagen content were achieved after cystamine treatment, together with a reduction in TG2 concentration. Reduced mRNA expression of several profibrotic genes (COL1A1, FN1, MMP-2, CTGF, periostin, CX43) was also evidenced in LV tissues of ISO rats upon cystamine administration, whereas TGF-β1 expression was depressed in LA tissues. Cystamine decreased TG2 mRNA expression in the LV of control rats, while LV expression of TG2 was relatively low in ISO rats irrespective of cystamine treatment. SIGNIFICANCE TG2 inhibition by cystamine in vivo exerted cardioprotective effects against ISO-induced cardiac fibrosis in rats decreasing the LV abundance of several profibrotic markers and the content of TG2 and collagen, suggesting that TG2 pharmacological inhibition could be beneficial to alleviate cardiac fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doa'a G F Al-U'datt
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan.
| | - Carole C Tranchant
- School of Food Science, Nutrition and Family Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences and Community Services, Université de Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Muhammad Alu'datt
- Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Sara Abusara
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Ahmed Al-Dwairi
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Mohammad AlQudah
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan; Physiology Department, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Othman Al-Shboul
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Roddy Hiram
- Montreal Heart Institute and Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Yasemin Altuntas
- Montreal Heart Institute and Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Saied Jaradat
- Princess Haya Biotechnology Center, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan
| | - Karem H Alzoubi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
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24
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Desantis V, Potenza MA, Sgarra L, Nacci C, Scaringella A, Cicco S, Solimando AG, Vacca A, Montagnani M. microRNAs as Biomarkers of Endothelial Dysfunction and Therapeutic Target in the Pathogenesis of Atrial Fibrillation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:5307. [PMID: 36982382 PMCID: PMC10049145 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathophysiology of atrial fibrillation (AF) may involve atrial fibrosis/remodeling and dysfunctional endothelial activities. Despite the currently available treatment approaches, the progression of AF, its recurrence rate, and the high mortality risk of related complications underlay the need for more advanced prognostic and therapeutic strategies. There is increasing attention on the molecular mechanisms controlling AF onset and progression points to the complex cell to cell interplay that triggers fibroblasts, immune cells and myofibroblasts, enhancing atrial fibrosis. In this scenario, endothelial cell dysfunction (ED) might play an unexpected but significant role. microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. In the cardiovascular compartment, both free circulating and exosomal miRNAs entail the control of plaque formation, lipid metabolism, inflammation and angiogenesis, cardiomyocyte growth and contractility, and even the maintenance of cardiac rhythm. Abnormal miRNAs levels may indicate the activation state of circulating cells, and thus represent a specific read-out of cardiac tissue changes. Although several unresolved questions still limit their clinical use, the ease of accessibility in biofluids and their prognostic and diagnostic properties make them novel and attractive biomarker candidates in AF. This article summarizes the most recent features of AF associated with miRNAs and relates them to potentially underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Desantis
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Potenza
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Luca Sgarra
- General Hospital “F. Miulli” Acquaviva delle Fonti, 70021 Bari, Italy
| | - Carmela Nacci
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Antonietta Scaringella
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Cicco
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Unit of Internal Medicine and Clinical Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Giovanni Solimando
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Unit of Internal Medicine and Clinical Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Angelo Vacca
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Unit of Internal Medicine and Clinical Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Monica Montagnani
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro Medical School, 70124 Bari, Italy
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25
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Hohendanner F, Prabhu A, Wilck N, Stangl V, Pieske B, Stangl K, Althoff TF. G q-Mediated Arrhythmogenic Signaling Promotes Atrial Fibrillation. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020526. [PMID: 36831062 PMCID: PMC9953645 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is promoted by various stimuli like angiotensin II, endothelin-1, epinephrine/norepinephrine, vagal activation, or mechanical stress, all of which activate receptors coupled to G-proteins of the Gαq/Gα11-family (Gq). Besides pro-fibrotic and pro-inflammatory effects, Gq-mediated signaling induces inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3R)-mediated intracellular Ca2+ mobilization related to delayed after-depolarisations and AF. However, direct evidence of arrhythmogenic Gq-mediated signaling is absent. METHODS AND RESULTS To define the role of Gq in AF, transgenic mice with tamoxifen-inducible, cardiomyocyte-specific Gαq/Gα11-deficiency (Gq-KO) were created and exposed to intracardiac electrophysiological studies. Baseline electrophysiological properties, including heart rate, sinus node recovery time, and atrial as well as AV nodal effective refractory periods, were comparable in Gq-KO and control mice. However, inducibility and mean duration of AF episodes were significantly reduced in Gq-KO mice-both before and after vagal stimulation. To explore underlying mechanisms, left atrial cardiomyocytes were isolated from Gq-KO and control mice and electrically stimulated to study Ca2+-mobilization during excitation-contraction coupling using confocal microscopy. Spontaneous arrhythmogenic Ca2+ waves and sarcoplasmic reticulum content-corrected Ca2+ sparks were less frequent in Gq-KO mice. Interestingly, nuclear but not cytosolic Ca2+ transient amplitudes were significantly decreased in Gq-KO mice. CONCLUSION Gq-signaling promotes arrhythmogenic atrial Ca2+-release and AF in mice. Targeting this pathway, ideally using Gq-selective, biased receptor ligands, may be a promising approach for the treatment and prevention of AF. Importantly, the atrial-specific expression of the Gq-effector IP3R confers atrial selectivity mitigating the risk of life-threatening ventricular pro-arrhythmic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Hohendanner
- Department of Cardiology and German Heart Center, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité–University Medicine Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, 13316 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ashok Prabhu
- Department of Cardiology and German Heart Center, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité–University Medicine Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Nicola Wilck
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, 13316 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center (ECRC), a Cooperation of Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), 13125 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Nephrology and Medical Intensive Care Medicine, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Verena Stangl
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, 13316 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité–University Medicine Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Burkert Pieske
- Department of Cardiology and German Heart Center, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charité–University Medicine Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, 13316 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Karl Stangl
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, 13316 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité–University Medicine Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Till F. Althoff
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin, 13316 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Charité Campus Mitte, Charité–University Medicine Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Arrhythmia Section, Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, C/Villarroel N° 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-93-2275551; Fax: +34-93-4513045
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Bosada FM, van Duijvenboden K, Giovou AE, Rivaud MR, Uhm JS, Verkerk AO, Boukens BJ, Christoffels VM. An atrial fibrillation-associated regulatory region modulates cardiac Tbx5 levels and arrhythmia susceptibility. eLife 2023; 12:80317. [PMID: 36715501 PMCID: PMC9928424 DOI: 10.7554/elife.80317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Heart development and rhythm control are highly Tbx5 dosage-sensitive. TBX5 haploinsufficiency causes congenital conduction disorders, whereas increased expression levels of TBX5 in human heart samples has been associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). We deleted the conserved mouse orthologues of two independent AF-associated genomic regions in the Tbx5 locus, one intronic (RE(int)) and one downstream (RE(down)) of Tbx5. In both lines, we observed a modest (30%) increase of Tbx5 in the postnatal atria. To gain insight into the effects of slight dosage increase in vivo, we investigated the atrial transcriptional, epigenetic and electrophysiological properties of both lines. Increased atrial Tbx5 expression was associated with induction of genes involved in development, ion transport and conduction, with increased susceptibility to atrial arrhythmias, and increased action potential duration of atrial cardiomyocytes. We identified an AF-associated variant in the human RE(int) that increases its transcriptional activity. Expression of the AF-associated transcription factor Prrx1 was induced in Tbx5RE(int)KO cardiomyocytes. We found that some of the transcriptional and functional changes in the atria caused by increased Tbx5 expression were normalized when reducing cardiac Prrx1 expression in Tbx5RE(int)KO mice, indicating an interaction between these two AF genes. We conclude that modest increases in expression of dose-dependent transcription factors, caused by common regulatory variants, significantly impact on the cardiac gene regulatory network and disease susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda M Bosada
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
- Department of Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Karel van Duijvenboden
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Alexandra E Giovou
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Mathilde R Rivaud
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
- Department of Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Jae-Sun Uhm
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Severance Hospital, College of Medicine, Yonsei UniversitySeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Arie O Verkerk
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
- Department of Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Bastiaan J Boukens
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
- Department of Physiology, University of Maastricht, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical CenterMaastrichtNetherlands
| | - Vincent M Christoffels
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of AmsterdamAmsterdamNetherlands
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Cong X, Tian B, Zhu X, Zhang X, Gu W, Zhao H, Hao S, Ning Z. Interleukin-11 Is Elevated in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation, Correlates with Serum Fibrosis Markers, and Represents a Therapeutic Target for Atrial Fibrosis. Cerebrovasc Dis 2023; 52:575-586. [PMID: 36599329 DOI: 10.1159/000527740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Inflammatory cytokines are closely associated with developing cardiac fibrosis. This research aimed to explore the significant role of IL-11 in atrial fibrosis progression and potential therapeutic targets. METHODS 207 AF patients and 160 healthy subjects were included in the case-control study. Blood samples were analyzed for the level of IL-11 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Angiotensin II (Ang II)-treated fibrosis mouse models were generated, and expression of IL-11 mRNA and protein was detected by RT-qPCR and Western blot. IL-11 antagonist was used to evaluating atrial fibrosis-related markers. RESULTS The persistent atrial fibrillation patients (n = 76) had significantly larger left atrial size, higher serum levels of hypertrophic protein BNP, proinflammatory cytokine high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) compared to paroxysmal atrial fibrillation patients (n = 131), and healthy subjects (all p < 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant positive correlation between serum IL-11 and cardiac fibrosis markers BNP (r = 0.394, p < 0.001), CTX-I (r = 0.418, p < 0.001), PICP (r = 0.306, p < 0.001), PIIINP (r = 0.335, p < 0.001), and TGF-β1 (r = 0.273, p < 0.001). In the fibrosis mouse model, Ang II infusion significantly upregulated IL-11 mRNA and protein expression in the left atrium of mice (p < 0.05), as well as staining intensity of Masson trichrome, the intensity of α-SMA, and it increased mRNA expression of collagen I and III in atrial tissue. IL-11 antagonist treatment significantly attenuated Masson trichrome, number of α-SMA-positive myofibroblasts in atrial tissue. Also, it significantly reduced the p-ERK1/2 in atrial tissue of mice infused with Ang II (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS IL-11 is upregulated in the serum of AF patients, and IL-11 inhibitor significantly inhibited Ang II-induced atrial fibrosis, a key pathological feature of AF. Therefore, IL-11 could be a potential therapeutic target for AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinpeng Cong
- Department of Cardiology, Zhoupu Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Health Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Bei Tian
- Department of Cardiology, Zhoupu Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Health Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhoupu Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Health Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaogang Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Zhoupu Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Health Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Gu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhoupu Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Health Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanjun Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhoupu Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Health Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuwen Hao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhoupu Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Health Medical College, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhongping Ning
- Department of Cardiology, Zhoupu Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Health Medical College, Shanghai, China
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Weight loss and atrial fibrillation: a review. Curr Opin Cardiol 2023; 38:6-10. [PMID: 36598444 DOI: 10.1097/hco.0000000000001004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Despite technological advancements in catheter ablation, patients with atrial fibrillation often require multiple ablations, with diminishing returns depending on duration and persistence. Although early ablation is vital, modification of atrial fibrillation disease can be achieved with modification of existing risk factors. Obesity is an important modifiable risk factor, but there does not appear to be a consensus on the best method or goal for weight reduction. RECENT FINDINGS The relationship between atrial fibrillation and obesity has been acknowledged. This review examines the clinical evidence demonstrating the benefit of weight reduction in the management of atrial fibrillation. In particular, this review compares the different approaches of recent studies. SUMMARY On the basis of the literature, the authors recommend a structured weight loss programme with dietary and behavioural modifications individualized to each patient and including the implementation of physical activity. Consideration of bariatric surgery is appropriate in certain patients with obesity.
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29
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Murphy MB, Kannankeril PJ, Murray KT. Overview of programmed electrical stimulation to assess atrial fibrillation susceptibility in mice. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1149023. [PMID: 37113690 PMCID: PMC10126433 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1149023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common human arrhythmia and is associated with increased risk of stroke, dementia, heart failure, and death. Among several animal models that have been used to investigate the molecular determinants of AF, mouse models have become the most prevalent due to low cost, ease of genetic manipulation, and similarity to human disease. Programmed electrical stimulation (PES) using intracardiac or transesophageal atrial pacing is used to induce AF as most mouse models do not develop spontaneous AF. However, there is a lack of standardized methodology resulting in numerous PES protocols in the literature that differ with respect to multiple parameters, including pacing protocol and duration, stimulus amplitude, pulse width, and even the definition of AF. Given this complexity, the selection of the appropriate atrial pacing protocol for a specific model has been arbitrary. Herein we review the development of intracardiac and transesophageal PES, including commonly used protocols, selected experimental models, and advantages and disadvantages of both techniques. We also emphasize detection of artifactual AF induction due to unintended parasympathetic stimulation, which should be excluded from results. We recommend that the optimal pacing protocol to elicit an AF phenotype should be individualized to the specific model of genetic or acquired risk factors, with an analysis using several definitions of AF as an endpoint.
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Guillot B, Boileve A, Walton R, Harfoush A, Conte C, Sainte-Marie Y, Charron S, Bernus O, Recalde A, Sallé L, Brette F, Lezoualc'h F. Inhibition of EPAC1 signaling pathway alters atrial electrophysiology and prevents atrial fibrillation. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1120336. [PMID: 36909224 PMCID: PMC9992743 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1120336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia and is associated with increased mortality and morbidity. The Exchange Protein directly Activated by cAMP (EPAC), has been implicated in pro-arrhythmic signaling pathways in the atria, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Methods: In this study, we investigated the involvement of EPAC1 and EPAC2 isoforms in the genesis of AF in wild type (WT) mice and knockout (KO) mice for EPAC1 or EPAC2. We also employed EPAC pharmacological modulators to selectively activate EPAC proteins (8-CPT-AM; 10 μM), or inhibit either EPAC1 (AM-001; 20 μM) or EPAC2 (ESI-05; 25 μM). Transesophageal stimulation was used to characterize the induction of AF in vivo in mice. Optical mapping experiments were performed on isolated mouse atria and cellular electrophysiology was examined by whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Results: In wild type mice, we found 8-CPT-AM slightly increased AF susceptibility and that this was blocked by the EPAC1 inhibitor AM-001 but not the EPAC2 inhibitor ESI-05. Consistent with this, in EPAC1 KO mice, occurrence of AF was observed in 3/12 (vs. 4/10 WT littermates) and 4/10 in EPAC2 KO (vs. 5/10 WT littermates). In wild type animals, optical mapping experiments revealed that 8-CPT-AM perfusion increased action potential duration even in the presence of AM-001 or ESI-05. Interestingly, 8-CPT-AM perfusion decreased conduction velocity, an effect blunted by AM-001 but not ESI-05. Patch-clamp experiments demonstrated action potential prolongation after 8-CPT-AM perfusion in both wild type and EPAC1 KO mice and this effect was partially prevented by AM-001 in WT. Conclusion: Together, these results indicate that EPAC1 and EPAC2 signaling pathways differentially alter atrial electrophysiology but only the EPAC1 isoform is involved in the genesis of AF. Selective blockade of EPAC1 with AM-001 prevents AF in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastien Guillot
- IHU LIRYC -CRCTB U1045, Pessac, France.,INSERM U1045 -Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Arthur Boileve
- UR 4650 PSIR, GIP Cyceron, Caen, France.,Université de Caen-Normandie, Caen, France
| | - Richard Walton
- IHU LIRYC -CRCTB U1045, Pessac, France.,INSERM U1045 -Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Alexandre Harfoush
- UR 4650 PSIR, GIP Cyceron, Caen, France.,Université de Caen-Normandie, Caen, France
| | - Caroline Conte
- Université de Toulouse-Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France.,Institut des maladies métaboliques et cardiovasculaires, INSERM UMR-1297, Toulouse, France
| | - Yannis Sainte-Marie
- Université de Toulouse-Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France.,Institut des maladies métaboliques et cardiovasculaires, INSERM UMR-1297, Toulouse, France
| | - Sabine Charron
- IHU LIRYC -CRCTB U1045, Pessac, France.,INSERM U1045 -Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Olivier Bernus
- IHU LIRYC -CRCTB U1045, Pessac, France.,INSERM U1045 -Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Alice Recalde
- IHU LIRYC -CRCTB U1045, Pessac, France.,INSERM U1045 -Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Laurent Sallé
- UR 4650 PSIR, GIP Cyceron, Caen, France.,Université de Caen-Normandie, Caen, France
| | - Fabien Brette
- IHU LIRYC -CRCTB U1045, Pessac, France.,INSERM U1045 -Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.,PhyMedExp, INSERM U1046, CNRS 9412, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Frank Lezoualc'h
- Université de Toulouse-Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France.,Institut des maladies métaboliques et cardiovasculaires, INSERM UMR-1297, Toulouse, France
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Imbalance in Bone Morphogenic Proteins 2 and 7 Is Associated with Renal and Cardiovascular Damage in Chronic Kidney Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010040. [PMID: 36613483 PMCID: PMC9820638 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Arterial stiffness is a major vascular complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The development of renal damage, hypertension, and increased pulse wave velocity (PWV) in CKD might be associated with an imbalance in bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP)-2 and BMP-7. Plasma BMP-2 and BMP-7 were determined by ELISA in CKD patients (stages I-III; n = 95) and Munich Wistar Frömter (MWF) rats. Age-matched Wistar rats were used as a control. The expression of BMP-2, BMP-7, and profibrotic and calcification factors was determined in kidney and perivascular adipose tissues (PVAT). BMP-2 was higher in stage III CKD patients compared to control subjects. BMP-7 was lower at any CKD stage compared to controls, with a significant further reduction in stage III patients. A similar imbalance was observed in MWF rats together with the increase in systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), or pulse wave velocity (PWV). MWF exhibited elevated urinary albumin excretion (UAE) and renal expression of BMP-2 or kidney damage markers, Kim-1 and Ngal, whereas renal BMP-7 was significantly lower than in Wistar rats. SBP, DBP, PWV, UAE, and plasma creatinine positively correlated with the plasma BMP-2/BMP-7 ratio. Periaortic and mesenteric PVAT from MWF rats showed an increased expression of BMP-2 and profibrotic and calcification markers compared to Wistar rats, together with a reduced BMP-7 expression. BMP-2 and BMP-7 imbalance in plasma, kidney, and PVATs is associated with vascular damage, suggesting a profibrotic/pro-calcifying propensity associated with progressive CKD. Thus, their combined analysis stratified by CKD stages might be of clinical interest to provide information about the degree of renal and vascular damage in CKD.
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Hao H, Dai C, Han X, Li Y. A novel therapeutic strategy for alleviating atrial remodeling by targeting exosomal miRNAs in atrial fibrillation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2022; 1869:119365. [PMID: 36167158 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2022.119365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most frequent cardiac arrhythmias, and atrial remodeling is related to the progression of AF. Although several therapeutic approaches have been presented in recent years, the continuously increasing mortality rate suggests that more advanced strategies for treatment are urgently needed. Exosomes regulate pathological processes through intercellular communication mediated by microribonucleic acid (miRNA) in various cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Exosomal miRNAs associated with signaling pathways have added more complexity to an already complex direct cell-to-cell interaction. Exosome delivery of miRNAs is involved in cardiac regeneration and cardiac protection. Recent studies have found that exosomes play a critical role in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac fibrosis. By improving exosome stability and modifying surface epitopes, specific pharmaceutical agents can be supplied to improve tropism and targeting to cells and tissues in vivo. Exosomes harboring miRNAs may have clinical utility in cell-free therapeutic approaches and may serve as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers for AF. Currently, limitations challenge pharmaceutic design, therapeutic utility and in vivo targeted delivery to patients. The aim of this article is to review the developmental features of AF associated with exosomal miRNAs and relate them to underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongting Hao
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Chenguang Dai
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Xuejie Han
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Cell Translation, Harbin Medical University, Heilongjiang 150001, China; Key Laboratory of Hepatosplenic Surgery, Harbin Medical University, Ministry of Education, Harbin 150001, China; Key Laboratory of Cardiac Diseases and Heart Failure, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Metabolic Disorder & Cancer Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Harbin 150081, China; Institute of Metabolic Disease, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Science, Harbin, China.
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Ripplinger CM, Glukhov AV, Kay MW, Boukens BJ, Chiamvimonvat N, Delisle BP, Fabritz L, Hund TJ, Knollmann BC, Li N, Murray KT, Poelzing S, Quinn TA, Remme CA, Rentschler SL, Rose RA, Posnack NG. Guidelines for assessment of cardiac electrophysiology and arrhythmias in small animals. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2022; 323:H1137-H1166. [PMID: 36269644 PMCID: PMC9678409 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00439.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although recent advances in cell-based models, including human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CM), are contributing to our understanding of electrophysiology and arrhythmia mechanisms, preclinical animal studies of cardiovascular disease remain a mainstay. Over the past several decades, animal models of cardiovascular disease have advanced our understanding of pathological remodeling, arrhythmia mechanisms, and drug effects and have led to major improvements in pacing and defibrillation therapies. There exist a variety of methodological approaches for the assessment of cardiac electrophysiology and a plethora of parameters may be assessed with each approach. This guidelines article will provide an overview of the strengths and limitations of several common techniques used to assess electrophysiology and arrhythmia mechanisms at the whole animal, whole heart, and tissue level with a focus on small animal models. We also define key electrophysiological parameters that should be assessed, along with their physiological underpinnings, and the best methods with which to assess these parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crystal M Ripplinger
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, California
| | - Alexey V Glukhov
- Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Matthew W Kay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Bastiaan J Boukens
- Department Physiology, University Maastricht, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nipavan Chiamvimonvat
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, California
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis, California
- Veterans Affairs Northern California Healthcare System, Mather, California
| | - Brian P Delisle
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Larissa Fabritz
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf with DZHK Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Germany
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas J Hund
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Bjorn C Knollmann
- Vanderbilt Center for Arrhythmia Research and Therapeutics, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Na Li
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Katherine T Murray
- Departments of Medicine and Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Steven Poelzing
- Virginia Tech Carilon School of Medicine, Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech, Roanoke, Virginia
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - T Alexander Quinn
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Carol Ann Remme
- Department of Experimental Cardiology, Heart Centre, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Heart Failure and Arrhythmias Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stacey L Rentschler
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Washington University in Saint Louis, School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Robert A Rose
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Nikki G Posnack
- Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
- Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia
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Sarzani R, Allevi M, Di Pentima C, Schiavi P, Spannella F, Giulietti F. Role of Cardiac Natriuretic Peptides in Heart Structure and Function. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214415. [PMID: 36430893 PMCID: PMC9697447 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac natriuretic peptides (NPs), atrial NP (ANP) and B-type NP (BNP) are true hormones produced and released by cardiomyocytes, exerting several systemic effects. Together with C-type NP (CNP), mainly expressed by endothelial cells, they also exert several paracrine and autocrine activities on the heart itself, contributing to cardiovascular (CV) health. In addition to their natriuretic, vasorelaxant, metabolic and antiproliferative systemic properties, NPs prevent cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, arrhythmias and cardiomyopathies, counteracting the development and progression of heart failure (HF). Moreover, recent studies revealed that a protein structurally similar to NPs mainly produced by skeletal muscles and osteoblasts called musclin/osteocrin is able to interact with the NPs clearance receptor, attenuating cardiac dysfunction and myocardial fibrosis and promoting heart protection during pathological overload. This narrative review is focused on the direct activities of this molecule family on the heart, reporting both experimental and human studies that are clinically relevant for physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Sarzani
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico-Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani (IRCCS INRCA), 60127 Ancona, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
- Correspondence: (R.S.); Tel.: +39-071-5964696
| | - Massimiliano Allevi
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico-Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani (IRCCS INRCA), 60127 Ancona, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Chiara Di Pentima
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico-Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani (IRCCS INRCA), 60127 Ancona, Italy
| | - Paola Schiavi
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico-Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani (IRCCS INRCA), 60127 Ancona, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco Spannella
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico-Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani (IRCCS INRCA), 60127 Ancona, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Federico Giulietti
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico-Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani (IRCCS INRCA), 60127 Ancona, Italy
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Chang M, Gada KD, Chidipi B, Tsalatsanis A, Gibbons J, Remily-Wood E, Logothetis DE, Oberstaller J, Noujaim SF. I KACh is constitutively active via PKC epsilon in aging mediated atrial fibrillation. iScience 2022; 25:105442. [PMID: 36388956 PMCID: PMC9650037 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common abnormal heart rhythm, is a major cause for stroke. Aging is a significant risk factor for AF; however, specific ionic pathways that can elucidate how aging leads to AF remain elusive. We used young and old wild-type and PKC epsilon- (PKCϵ) knockout mice, whole animal, and cellular electrophysiology, as well as whole heart, and cellular imaging to investigate how aging leads to the aberrant functioning of a potassium current, and consequently to AF facilitation. Our experiments showed that knocking out PKCϵ abrogates the effects of aging on AF by preventing the development of a constitutively active acetylcholine sensitive inward rectifier potassium current (IKACh). Moreover, blocking this abnormal current in the old heart reduces AF inducibility. Our studies demonstrate that in the aging heart, IKACh is constitutively active in a PKCϵ-dependent manner, contributing to the perpetuation of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Chang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Kirin D. Gada
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Bojjibabu Chidipi
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Athanasios Tsalatsanis
- College of Medicine Office of Research, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Justin Gibbons
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research and USF Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Elizabeth Remily-Wood
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Diomedes E. Logothetis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Center for Drug Discovery, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jenna Oberstaller
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research and USF Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Sami F. Noujaim
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
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Trieu T, Mach P, Bunn K, Huang V, Huang J, Chow C, Nakano H, Fajardo VM, Touma M, Ren S, Wang Y, Nakano A. A novel murine model of atrial fibrillation by diphtheria toxin-induced injury. Front Physiol 2022; 13:977735. [PMID: 36388109 PMCID: PMC9659601 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.977735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) continues to be a significant clinical challenge. While genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are beginning to identify AF susceptibility genes (Gudbjartsson et al., Nature, 2007, 448, 353-357; Choi et al., Circ. Res., 2020, 126, 200-209; van Ouwerkerk et al., Circ. Res., 2022, 127, 229-243), non-genetic risk factors including physical, chemical, and biological environments remain the major contributors to the development of AF. However, little is known regarding how non-genetic risk factors promote the pathogenesis of AF (Weiss et al., Heart Rhythm, 2016, 13, 1868-1877; Chakraborty et al., Heart Rhythm, 2020, 17, 1,398-1,404; Nattel et al., Circ. Res., 2020, 127, 51-72). This is, in part, due to the lack of a robust and reliable animal model induced by non-genetic factors. The currently available models using rapid pacing protocols fail to generate a stable AF phenotype in rodent models, often requiring additional genetic modifications that introduce potential sources of bias (Schüttler et al., Circ. Res., 2020, 127, 91-110). Here, we report a novel murine model of AF using an inducible and tissue-specific activation of diphtheria toxin (DT)-mediated cellular injury system. By the tissue-specific and inducible expression of human HB-EGF in atrial myocytes, we developed a reliable, robust and scalable murine model of AF that is triggered by a non-genetic inducer without the need for AF susceptibility gene mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Trieu
- Department of Molecular, Cell, Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Philbert Mach
- Department of Molecular, Cell, Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Kaitlyn Bunn
- Department of Molecular, Cell, Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Vincent Huang
- Department of Molecular, Cell, Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jamie Huang
- Department of Molecular, Cell, Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Christine Chow
- Department of Molecular, Cell, Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Haruko Nakano
- Department of Molecular, Cell, Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Viviana M. Fajardo
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Marlin Touma
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Shuxun Ren
- Departments of Anesthesiology, Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Yibin Wang
- Departments of Anesthesiology, Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Atsushi Nakano
- Department of Molecular, Cell, Developmental Biology, School of Life Science, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Cell Physiology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Mining of Potential Biomarkers and Pathway in Valvular Atrial Fibrillation (VAF) via Systematic Screening of Gene Coexpression Network. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:3645402. [PMID: 36226239 PMCID: PMC9550484 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3645402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose. We apply the bioinformatics method to excavate the potential genes and therapeutic targets associated with valvular atrial fibrillation (VAF). Methods. The downloaded gene expression files from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) included patients with primary severe mitral regurgitation complicated with sinus or atrial fibrillation rhythm. Subsequently, the differential gene expression in left and right atrium was analyzed by R software. Additionally, weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA), principal component analysis (PCA), and linear model for microarray data (LIMMA) algorithm were used to determine hub genes. Then, Metascape database, DAVID database, and STRING database were used to annotate and visualize the gene ontology (GO) analysis, KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, and PPI network analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Finally, the TFs and miRNAs were predicted by using online tools, such as PASTAA and miRDB. Results. 20,484 differentially expressed genes related to atrial fibrillation were obtained through the analysis of left and right atrial tissue samples of GSE115574 gene chip, and 1,009 were with statistical significance, including 45 upregulated genes and 964 downregulated genes. And the hub genes implicated in AF of NPC2, ODC1, SNAP29, LAPTM5, ST8SIA5, and FCGR3B were screened. Finally, the main regulators of targeted candidate biomarkers and microRNAs, EIF5A2, HIF1A, ZIC2, ELF1, and STAT2, were found in this study. Conclusion. These hub genes, NPC2, ODC1, SNAP29, LAPTM5, ST8SIA5, and FCGR3B, are important for the development of VAF, and their enrichment pathways and TFs elucidate the involved molecular mechanisms and assist in the validation of drug targets.
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Mechanism and prevention of atrial remodeling and their related genes in cardiovascular disorders. Curr Probl Cardiol 2022; 48:101414. [PMID: 36155200 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2022.101414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with profound structural and functional changes in the atrium. Inflammation mediated atrial fibrosis is one of the key mechanisms in the pathogenesis of AF. The collagen deposition in extracellular matrix (ECM) is mainly mediated by transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) which promotes AF via controlling smads mediated-collagen gene transcription and regulating the balance of metalloproteinases (MMPs)/ tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Although many processes can alter atrial properties and promote AF, animal models and clinical studies have provided insights into two major forms of atrial remodeling: Atrial tachycardia remodeling (ATR), which occurs with rapid atrial tachyarrhythmia's such as AF and atrial flutter, and atrial structural remodeling (ASR), which is associated with CHF and other fibrosis-promoting conditions. The mechanism of atrial remodeling such as atrial enlargement, ultra structural changes of atrial muscle tissue and myocardial interstitial fibrosis in AF is still unclear. At present, many studies focus on calcium overload, renin angiotensin aldosterone system and transforming growth factor β1, that effect on atrial structural remodeling. Recent experimental studies and clinical investigations have provided structural remodeling is important contributor to the AF. This paper reviews the current understanding of the progresses about mechanism of atrial structural remodeling, and highlights the potential therapeutic approaches aimed at attenuating structural remodeling to prevent AF. Now some recent advancements of this area are reviewed in this paper.
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Gong C, Ding Y, Liang F, Wu S, Tang X, Ding H, Huang W, Yu X, Zhou L, Li J, Liu S. Muscarinic receptor regulation of chronic pain-induced atrial fibrillation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:934906. [PMID: 36187006 PMCID: PMC9521049 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.934906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF), one of the most common arrhythmias, is associated with chronic emotional disorder. Chronic pain represents a psychological instability condition related to cardiovascular diseases, but the mechanistic linkage connecting chronic pain to AF occurrence remains unknown. Wild-type C57BL/6J male mice were randomly divided into sham and chronic pain groups. Autonomic nerve remodeling was reflected by the increased atrial parasympathetic tension and muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M2 expression. AF susceptibility was assessed through transesophageal burst stimulation in combination with electrocardiogram recording and investigating AERP in Langendorff perfused hearts. Our results demonstrated the elevated protein expression of muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M2 in the atria of mice subjected to chronic pain stress. Moreover, chronic pain induced the increase of atrial PR interval, and atrial effective refractory periods as compared to the sham group, underlying the enhanced susceptibility of AF. Thus, autonomic cholinergic nerve may mediate mice AF in the setting of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Gong
- Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Ding
- Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Liang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuang Wu
- Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiruo Tang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongzhang Ding
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjing Huang
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaotong Yu
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Likun Zhou
- Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Li
- Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Jun Li
| | - Shaowen Liu
- Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Shaowen Liu
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Li G, Yang J, Zhang D, Wang X, Han J, Guo X. Research Progress of Myocardial Fibrosis and Atrial Fibrillation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:889706. [PMID: 35958428 PMCID: PMC9357935 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.889706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
With the aging population and the increasing incidence of basic illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes (DM), the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) has increased significantly. AF is the most common arrhythmia in clinical practice, which can cause heart failure (HF) and ischemic stroke (IS), increasing disability and mortality. Current studies point out that myocardial fibrosis (MF) is one of the most critical substrates for the occurrence and maintenance of AF. Although myocardial biopsy is the gold standard for evaluating MF, it is rarely used in clinical practice because it is an invasive procedure. In addition, serological indicators and imaging methods have also been used to evaluate MF. Nevertheless, the accuracy of serological markers in evaluating MF is controversial. This review focuses on the pathogenesis of MF, serological evaluation, imaging evaluation, and anti-fibrosis treatment to discuss the existing problems and provide new ideas for MF and AF evaluation and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangling Li
- Department of Cardiology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Pathology, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - Demei Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaomei Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Han
- Department of Cardiology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xueya Guo
- Department of Cardiology, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xueya Guo,
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Conte M, Petraglia L, Cabaro S, Valerio V, Poggio P, Pilato E, Attena E, Russo V, Ferro A, Formisano P, Leosco D, Parisi V. Epicardial Adipose Tissue and Cardiac Arrhythmias: Focus on Atrial Fibrillation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:932262. [PMID: 35845044 PMCID: PMC9280076 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.932262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent cardiac arrhythmia and its prevalence increases with age. AF is strongly associated with an increased risk of stroke, heart failure and cardiovascular mortality. Among the risk factors associated with AF onset and severity, obesity and inflammation play a prominent role. Numerous recent evidence suggested a role of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), the visceral fat depot of the heart, in the development of AF. Several potential arrhythmogenic mechanisms have been attributed to EAT, including myocardial inflammation, fibrosis, oxidative stress, and fat infiltration. EAT is a local source of inflammatory mediators which potentially contribute to atrial collagen deposition and fibrosis, the anatomical substrate for AF. Moreover, the close proximity between EAT and myocardium allows the EAT to penetrate and generate atrial myocardium fat infiltrates that can alter atrial electrophysiological properties. These observations support the hypothesis of a strong implication of EAT in structural and electrical atrial remodeling, which underlies AF onset and burden. The measure of EAT, through different imaging methods, such as echocardiography, computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance, has been proposed as a useful prognostic tool to predict the presence, severity and recurrence of AF. Furthermore, EAT is increasingly emerging as a promising potential therapeutic target. This review aims to summarize the recent evidence exploring the potential role of EAT in the pathogenesis of AF, the main mechanisms by which EAT can promote structural and electrical atrial remodeling and the potential therapeutic strategies targeting the cardiac visceral fat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena Conte
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Casa di Cura San Michele, Maddaloni, Italy
| | - Laura Petraglia
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Serena Cabaro
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Emanuele Pilato
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Science, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Emilio Attena
- Department of Cardiology, Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Russo
- Chair of Cardiology, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" - Monaldi and Cotugno Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - Adele Ferro
- Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
| | - Pietro Formisano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Dario Leosco
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Valentina Parisi
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Cunha PS, Laranjo S, Heijman J, Oliveira MM. The Atrium in Atrial Fibrillation - A Clinical Review on How to Manage Atrial Fibrotic Substrates. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:879984. [PMID: 35859594 PMCID: PMC9289204 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.879984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia in the population and is associated with a significant clinical and economic burden. Rigorous assessment of the presence and degree of an atrial arrhythmic substrate is essential for determining treatment options, predicting long-term success after catheter ablation, and as a substrate critical in the pathophysiology of atrial thrombogenesis. Catheter ablation of AF has developed into an essential rhythm-control strategy. Nowadays is one of the most common cardiac ablation procedures performed worldwide, with its success inversely related to the extent of atrial structural disease. Although atrial substrate evaluation remains complex, several diagnostic resources allow for a more comprehensive assessment and quantification of the extent of left atrial structural remodeling and the presence of atrial fibrosis. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the pathophysiology, etiology, and electrophysiological aspects of atrial substrates promoting the development of AF. We also describe the risk factors for its development and how to diagnose its presence using imaging, electrocardiograms, and electroanatomic voltage mapping. Finally, we discuss recent data regarding fibrosis biomarkers that could help diagnose atrial fibrotic substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Silva Cunha
- Arrhythmology, Pacing and Electrophysiology Unit, Cardiology Service, Santa Marta Hospital, Central Lisbon Hospital University Center, Lisbon, Portugal
- Lisbon School of Medicine, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Laranjo
- Arrhythmology, Pacing and Electrophysiology Unit, Cardiology Service, Santa Marta Hospital, Central Lisbon Hospital University Center, Lisbon, Portugal
- Lisbon School of Medicine, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jordi Heijman
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Mário Martins Oliveira
- Arrhythmology, Pacing and Electrophysiology Unit, Cardiology Service, Santa Marta Hospital, Central Lisbon Hospital University Center, Lisbon, Portugal
- Lisbon School of Medicine, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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Saljic A, Grandi E, Dobrev D. TGF-β1-induced endothelial-mesenchymal transition: a potential contributor to fibrotic remodeling in atrial fibrillation? J Clin Invest 2022; 132:e161070. [PMID: 35775488 PMCID: PMC9246376 DOI: 10.1172/jci161070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia worldwide, with an unmet therapeutic need. Fibrotic remodeling, in which collagen-producing atrial fibroblasts play a crucial role, substantially contributes to arrhythmia promotion and progression. In this issue of the JCI, Lai, Tsai, and co-authors reveal that TGF-β1 promoted endothelial-mesenchymal transition during AF and put forward the notion that, in the adult heart, atrial fibroblasts can originate from different cellular sources. These important findings extend our understanding of the origin, biology, and function of fibroblasts and offer possibilities for therapeutic targeting of fibrosis in AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnela Saljic
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eleonora Grandi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Montréal Heart Institute and University de Montréal, Medicine and Research Center, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
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Serum periostin as a predictor of early recurrence of atrial fibrillation after catheter ablation. Heart Vessels 2022; 37:2059-2066. [PMID: 35778637 DOI: 10.1007/s00380-022-02115-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Catheter ablation is an effective method of rhythm therapy for atrial fibrillation (AF). AF recurrence is a common problem after catheter ablation. The aim of this study was to investigate influence factors of early recurrence after catheter ablation for AF. One hundred and three consecutive patients with AF were enrolled and underwent catheter ablation. Venous blood (Marked as A) was collected before ablation and left atrial blood (Marked as B) was collected after successful atrial septal puncture to detect serum periostin. After 3 months of follow-up, statistical analysis was made based on the recurrence of AF. 27 (26.2%) patients had a recurrence of atrial arrhythmia after catheter ablation. Patients with recurrent atrial arrhythmia had a larger left atrial volume (162.31 ± 47.76 vs. 141.98 ± 41.64,p = 0.039), and higher serum periostin levels (periostin A. 99.71 ± 16.475 vs. 90.36 ± 13.63, p = 0.005; periostin B. 103.95 ± 13.09 vs. 94.46 ± 15.85, p = 0.006) compared with the non-recurrent group. The numbers of patients with left atrial low-voltage areas (LVAs) were more in the recurrence group (p < 0.001). Left atrial volume, serum periostin and left atrial LVAs were included in univariate and multivariate COX regression analysis. It showed that left atrial LVAs (HR3.81; 95% CI 1.54 to 9.44; p = 0.004) and serum periostin A (HR1.07; 95% CI 1.02 to1.13; p = 0.008) were the independent predictors of AF recurrence. The cut-off value of serum periostin A was 87.95 ng/ ml (AUC, 0.681; sensitivity 88.9% and specificity 53.9%). Kaplan-Meier survival curve showed that the recurrence rate of AF was higher in patients with left atrial LVAs and higher serum periostin. The venous serum periostin level and left atrial LVAs were independent predictors of early recurrence of AF after catheter ablation.
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Lai YJ, Tsai FC, Chang GJ, Chang SH, Huang CC, Chen WJ, Yeh YH. miR-181b targets semaphorin 3A to mediate TGF-β-induced endothelial-mesenchymal transition related to atrial fibrillation. J Clin Invest 2022; 132:142548. [PMID: 35775491 PMCID: PMC9246393 DOI: 10.1172/jci142548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrosis is an essential contributor to atrial fibrillation (AF). It remains unclear whether atrial endocardial endothelial cells (AEECs) that undergo endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) are among the sources of atrial fibroblasts. We studied human atria, TGF-β-treated human AEECs, cardiac-specific TGF-β-transgenic mice, and heart failure rabbits to identify the underlying mechanism of EndMT in atrial fibrosis. Using isolated AEECs, we found that miR-181b was induced in TGF-β-treated AEECs, which decreased semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) and increased EndMT markers, and these effects could be reversed by a miR-181b antagomir. Experiments in which Sema3A was increased by a peptide or decreased by a siRNA in AEECs revealed a mechanistic link between Sema3A and LIM-kinase 1/phosphorylated cofilin (LIMK/p-cofilin) signaling and suggested that Sema3A is upstream of LIMK in regulating actin remodeling through p-cofilin. Administration of the miR-181b antagomir or recombinant Sema3A to TGF-β-transgenic mice evoked increased Sema3A, reduced EndMT markers, and significantly decreased atrial fibrosis and AF vulnerability. Our study provides a mechanistic link between the induction of EndMT by TGF-β via miR-181b/Sema3A/LIMK/p-cofilin signaling to atrial fibrosis. Blocking miR-181b and increasing Sema3A are potential strategies for AF therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Ju Lai
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao Yuan, Taiwan.,Department of Respiratory Therapy, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Tao Yuan, Taiwan.,Department of Respiratory Care, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Chia Yi, Taiwan
| | - Feng-Chun Tsai
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao Yuan, Taiwan.,Department of Medicine and
| | - Gwo-Jyh Chang
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao Yuan, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Tao Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Hung Chang
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao Yuan, Taiwan.,Department of Medicine and
| | - Chung-Chi Huang
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Tao Yuan, Taiwan.,Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Jan Chen
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao Yuan, Taiwan.,Department of Medicine and
| | - Yung-Hsin Yeh
- Cardiovascular Department, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Tao Yuan, Taiwan.,Department of Medicine and
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Xia R, Tomsits P, Loy S, Zhang Z, Pauly V, Schüttler D, Clauss S. Cardiac Macrophages and Their Effects on Arrhythmogenesis. Front Physiol 2022; 13:900094. [PMID: 35812333 PMCID: PMC9257039 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.900094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac electrophysiology is a complex system established by a plethora of inward and outward ion currents in cardiomyocytes generating and conducting electrical signals in the heart. However, not only cardiomyocytes but also other cell types can modulate the heart rhythm. Recently, cardiac macrophages were demonstrated as important players in both electrophysiology and arrhythmogenesis. Cardiac macrophages are a heterogeneous group of immune cells including resident macrophages derived from embryonic and fetal precursors and recruited macrophages derived from circulating monocytes from the bone marrow. Recent studies suggest antiarrhythmic as well as proarrhythmic effects of cardiac macrophages. The proposed mechanisms of how cardiac macrophages affect electrophysiology vary and include both direct and indirect interactions with other cardiac cells. In this review, we provide an overview of the different subsets of macrophages in the heart and their possible interactions with cardiomyocytes under both physiologic conditions and heart disease. Furthermore, we elucidate similarities and differences between human, murine and porcine cardiac macrophages, thus providing detailed information for researchers investigating cardiac macrophages in important animal species for electrophysiologic research. Finally, we discuss the pros and cons of mice and pigs to investigate the role of cardiac macrophages in arrhythmogenesis from a translational perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruibing Xia
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Institute of Surgical Research at the Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Philipp Tomsits
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Institute of Surgical Research at the Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Simone Loy
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Institute of Surgical Research at the Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Zhihao Zhang
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Institute of Surgical Research at the Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Valerie Pauly
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Institute of Surgical Research at the Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Dominik Schüttler
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Institute of Surgical Research at the Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Sebastian Clauss
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Institute of Surgical Research at the Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
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Blackwell DJ, Schmeckpeper J, Knollmann BC. Animal Models to Study Cardiac Arrhythmias. Circ Res 2022; 130:1926-1964. [PMID: 35679367 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.122.320258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, accounting for 10% to 15% of all deaths. Although most arrhythmias are due to acquired heart disease, inherited channelopathies and cardiomyopathies disproportionately affect children and young adults. Arrhythmogenesis is complex, involving anatomic structure, ion channels and regulatory proteins, and the interplay between cells in the conduction system, cardiomyocytes, fibroblasts, and the immune system. Animal models of arrhythmia are powerful tools for studying not only molecular and cellular mechanism of arrhythmogenesis but also more complex mechanisms at the whole heart level, and for testing therapeutic interventions. This review summarizes basic and clinical arrhythmia mechanisms followed by an in-depth review of published animal models of genetic and acquired arrhythmia disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Blackwell
- Vanderbilt Center for Arrhythmia Research and Therapeutics, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Jeffrey Schmeckpeper
- Vanderbilt Center for Arrhythmia Research and Therapeutics, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Bjorn C Knollmann
- Vanderbilt Center for Arrhythmia Research and Therapeutics, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
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Inflammasome Signaling in Atrial Fibrillation. J Am Coll Cardiol 2022; 79:2349-2366. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2022.03.379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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The Pathogenesis of Cardiac Arrhythmias in Vitamin D Deficiency. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061239. [PMID: 35740261 PMCID: PMC9220304 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The global prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is more than 20%, and the main causes include insufficient intake, reduced absorption, abnormal metabolism, or resistance to its effects. The levels of serum vitamin D appear to influence cardiovascular risk, and the mechanism involved is linked to the transient outward current and the ultrarapid delayed rectifier K+ current densities, activated through the nuclear vitamin D receptor and Akt pathway. A significant number of studies have correlated vitamin D deficiency with an increased risk of developing cardiac arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. For this reason, the purpose of this review is to analyze the relation between vitamin D deficiency and the pathogenesis of cardiac arrhythmias. Atrial fibrillation, increased QT interval, and QT dispersion were the most common findings associated with vitamin D deficiency. Due to the heterogeneity among existing studies, further research is necessary to confirm the existing data and to analyze its relationship with other types of arrhythmias.
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Emerging Antiarrhythmic Drugs for Atrial Fibrillation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084096. [PMID: 35456912 PMCID: PMC9029767 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common cardiac arrhythmia worldwide, is driven by complex mechanisms that differ between subgroups of patients. This complexity is apparent from the different forms in which AF presents itself (post-operative, paroxysmal and persistent), each with heterogeneous patterns and variable progression. Our current understanding of the mechanisms responsible for initiation, maintenance and progression of the different forms of AF has increased significantly in recent years. Nevertheless, antiarrhythmic drugs for the management of AF have not been developed based on the underlying arrhythmia mechanisms and none of the currently used drugs were specifically developed to target AF. With the increased knowledge on the mechanisms underlying different forms of AF, new opportunities for developing more effective and safer AF therapies are emerging. In this review, we provide an overview of potential novel antiarrhythmic approaches based on the underlying mechanisms of AF, focusing both on the development of novel antiarrhythmic agents and on the possibility of repurposing already marketed drugs. In addition, we discuss the opportunity of targeting some of the key players involved in the underlying AF mechanisms, such as ryanodine receptor type-2 (RyR2) channels and atrial-selective K+-currents (IK2P and ISK) for antiarrhythmic therapy. In addition, we highlight the opportunities for targeting components of inflammatory signaling (e.g., the NLRP3-inflammasome) and upstream mechanisms targeting fibroblast function to prevent structural remodeling and progression of AF. Finally, we critically appraise emerging antiarrhythmic drug principles and future directions for antiarrhythmic drug development, as well as their potential for improving AF management.
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