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Shiti A, Arbil G, Shaheen N, Huber I, Setter N, Gepstein L. Utilizing human induced pluripotent stem cells to study atrial arrhythmias in the short QT syndrome. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2023; 183:42-53. [PMID: 37579942 PMCID: PMC10589759 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2023.08.003] [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: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among the monogenic inherited causes of atrial fibrillation is the short QT syndrome (SQTS), a rare channelopathy causing atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. One of the limitations in studying the mechanisms and optimizing treatment of SQTS-related atrial arrhythmias has been the lack of relevant human atrial tissues models. OBJECTIVE To generate a unique model to study SQTS-related atrial arrhythmias by combining the use of patient-specific human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), atrial-specific differentiation schemes, two-dimensional tissue modeling, optical mapping, and drug testing. METHODS AND RESULTS SQTS (N588K KCNH2 mutation), isogenic-control, and healthy-control hiPSCs were coaxed to differentiate into atrial cardiomyocytes using a retinoic-acid based differentiation protocol. The atrial identity of the cells was confirmed by a distinctive pattern of MLC2v downregulation, connexin 40 upregulation, shorter and triangular-shaped action potentials (APs), and expression of the atrial-specific acetylcholine-sensitive potassium current. In comparison to the healthy- and isogenic control cells, the SQTS-hiPSC atrial cardiomyocytes displayed abbreviated APs and refractory periods along with an augmented rapidly activating delayed-rectifier potassium current (IKr). Optical mapping of a hiPSC-based atrial tissue model of the SQTS displayed shortened APD and altered biophysical properties of spiral waves induced in this model, manifested by accelerated spiral-wave frequency and increased rotor curvature. Both AP shortening and arrhythmia irregularities were reversed by quinidine and vernakalant treatment, but not by sotalol. CONCLUSIONS Patient-specific hiPSC-based atrial cellular and tissue models of the SQTS were established, which provide examples on how this type of modeling can shed light on the pathogenesis and pharmacological treatment of inherited atrial arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assad Shiti
- Sohnis Family Research Laboratory for Cardiac Electrophysiology and Regenerative Medicine, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Gil Arbil
- Sohnis Family Research Laboratory for Cardiac Electrophysiology and Regenerative Medicine, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Naim Shaheen
- Sohnis Family Research Laboratory for Cardiac Electrophysiology and Regenerative Medicine, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Irit Huber
- Sohnis Family Research Laboratory for Cardiac Electrophysiology and Regenerative Medicine, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Noga Setter
- Sohnis Family Research Laboratory for Cardiac Electrophysiology and Regenerative Medicine, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Lior Gepstein
- Sohnis Family Research Laboratory for Cardiac Electrophysiology and Regenerative Medicine, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel; Cardiolology Department, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel.
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2
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Zhang S, Lu W, Yang F, Li Z, Wang S, Jiang M, Wang X, Wei Z. Computational analysis of arrhythmogenesis in KCNH2 T618I mutation-associated short QT syndrome and the pharmacological effects of quinidine and sotalol. NPJ Syst Biol Appl 2022; 8:43. [PMID: 36333337 PMCID: PMC9636227 DOI: 10.1038/s41540-022-00254-5] [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: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Short QT syndrome (SQTS) is a rare but dangerous genetic disease. In this research, we conducted a comprehensive in silico investigation into the arrhythmogenesis in KCNH2 T618I-associated SQTS using a multi-scale human ventricle model. A Markov chain model of IKr was developed firstly to reproduce the experimental observations. It was then incorporated into cell, tissue, and organ models to explore how the mutation provided substrates for ventricular arrhythmias. Using this T618I Markov model, we explicitly revealed the subcellular level functional alterations by T618I mutation, particularly the changes of ion channel states that are difficult to demonstrate in wet experiments. The following tissue and organ models also successfully reproduced the changed dynamics of reentrant spiral waves and impaired rate adaptions in hearts of T618I mutation. In terms of pharmacotherapy, we replicated the different effects of a drug under various conditions using identical mathematical descriptions for drugs. This study not only simulated the actions of an effective drug (quinidine) at various physiological levels, but also elucidated why the IKr inhibitor sotalol failed in SQT1 patients through profoundly analyzing its mutation-dependent actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shugang Zhang
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, China
| | - Weigang Lu
- Department of Educational Technology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, China.
- Biological Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK.
| | - Fei Yang
- School of Mechanical, Electrical, and Information Engineering, Shandong University, Weihai, 264200, China
| | - Zhen Li
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- College of Computer Science and Technology, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, 266580, China
| | - Mingjian Jiang
- School of Information and Control Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266033, China
| | | | - Zhiqiang Wei
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, China
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Varró A, Tomek J, Nagy N, Virág L, Passini E, Rodriguez B, Baczkó I. Cardiac transmembrane ion channels and action potentials: cellular physiology and arrhythmogenic behavior. Physiol Rev 2020; 101:1083-1176. [PMID: 33118864 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00024.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias are among the leading causes of mortality. They often arise from alterations in the electrophysiological properties of cardiac cells and their underlying ionic mechanisms. It is therefore critical to further unravel the pathophysiology of the ionic basis of human cardiac electrophysiology in health and disease. In the first part of this review, current knowledge on the differences in ion channel expression and properties of the ionic processes that determine the morphology and properties of cardiac action potentials and calcium dynamics from cardiomyocytes in different regions of the heart are described. Then the cellular mechanisms promoting arrhythmias in congenital or acquired conditions of ion channel function (electrical remodeling) are discussed. The focus is on human-relevant findings obtained with clinical, experimental, and computational studies, given that interspecies differences make the extrapolation from animal experiments to human clinical settings difficult. Deepening the understanding of the diverse pathophysiology of human cellular electrophysiology will help in developing novel and effective antiarrhythmic strategies for specific subpopulations and disease conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- András Varró
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.,MTA-SZTE Cardiovascular Pharmacology Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Jakub Tomek
- Department of Computer Science, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Norbert Nagy
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.,MTA-SZTE Cardiovascular Pharmacology Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
| | - László Virág
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Elisa Passini
- Department of Computer Science, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Blanca Rodriguez
- Department of Computer Science, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - István Baczkó
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
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4
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Abstract
The main inherited cardiac arrhythmias are long QT syndrome, short QT syndrome, catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia and Brugada syndrome. These rare diseases are often the underlying cause of sudden cardiac death in young individuals and result from mutations in several genes encoding ion channels or proteins involved in their regulation. The genetic defects lead to alterations in the ionic currents that determine the morphology and duration of the cardiac action potential, and individuals with these disorders often present with syncope or a life-threatening arrhythmic episode. The diagnosis is based on clinical presentation and history, the characteristics of the electrocardiographic recording at rest and during exercise and genetic analyses. Management relies on pharmacological therapy, mostly β-adrenergic receptor blockers (specifically, propranolol and nadolol) and sodium and transient outward current blockers (such as quinidine), or surgical interventions, including left cardiac sympathetic denervation and implantation of a cardioverter-defibrillator. All these arrhythmias are potentially life-threatening and have substantial negative effects on the quality of life of patients. Future research should focus on the identification of genes associated with the diseases and other risk factors, improved risk stratification and, in particular for Brugada syndrome, effective therapies.
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5
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Zangerl-Plessl EM, Berger M, Drescher M, Chen Y, Wu W, Maulide N, Sanguinetti M, Stary-Weinzinger A. Toward a Structural View of hERG Activation by the Small-Molecule Activator ICA-105574. J Chem Inf Model 2020; 60:360-371. [PMID: 31877041 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.9b00737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Outward current conducted by human ether-à-go-go-related gene type 1 (hERG1) K+ channels is important for action potential repolarization in the human ventricle. Rapid, voltage-dependent inactivation greatly reduces outward currents conducted by hERG1 channels and involves conformational changes in the ion selectivity filter (SF). Recently, compounds have been found that activate hERG1 channel function by modulating gating mechanisms such as reducing inactivation. Such activating compounds could represent a novel approach to prevent arrhythmias associated with prolonged ventricular repolarization associated with inherited or acquired long QT syndrome. ICA-105574 (ICA), a 3-nitro-n-(4-phenoxyphenyl) benzamide derivative activates hERG1 by strongly attenuating pore-type inactivation. We previously mapped the putative binding site for ICA to a hydrophobic pocket located between two adjacent subunits. Here, we used the recently reported cryoelectron microscopy structures of hERG1 to elucidate the structural mechanisms by which ICA influences the stability of the SF. By combining molecular dynamics simulations, voltage-clamp electrophysiology, and the synthesis of novel ICA derivatives, we provide atomistic insights into SF dynamics and propose a structural link between the SF and S6 segments. Further, our study highlights the importance of the nitro moiety, at the meta position of the benzamide ring, for the activity of ICA and reveals that the (bio)isosteric substitution of this side chain can switch the activity to weak inhibitors. Our findings indicate that ICA increases the stability of the SF to attenuate channel inactivation, and this action requires a fine-tuned compound geometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Zangerl-Plessl
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Vienna , Althanstrasse 14 , Wien , Vienna 1090 , Austria
| | - Martin Berger
- Institute of Organic Chemistry , University of Vienna , Währinger Strasse 38 , Wien , Vienna 1090 , Austria
| | - Martina Drescher
- Institute of Organic Chemistry , University of Vienna , Währinger Strasse 38 , Wien , Vienna 1090 , Austria
| | - Yong Chen
- Institute of Organic Chemistry , University of Vienna , Währinger Strasse 38 , Wien , Vienna 1090 , Austria
| | - Wei Wu
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute and Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah 84132-340 , United States
| | - Nuno Maulide
- Institute of Organic Chemistry , University of Vienna , Währinger Strasse 38 , Wien , Vienna 1090 , Austria
| | - Michael Sanguinetti
- Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute and Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah 84132-340 , United States
| | - Anna Stary-Weinzinger
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Vienna , Althanstrasse 14 , Wien , Vienna 1090 , Austria
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6
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Hancox JC, Whittaker DG, Zhang H, Stuart AG. Learning from studying very rare cardiac conditions: the example of short QT syndrome. JOURNAL OF CONGENITAL CARDIOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1186/s40949-019-0024-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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7
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Whittaker DG, Hancox JC, Zhang H. In silico Assessment of Pharmacotherapy for Human Atrial Patho-Electrophysiology Associated With hERG-Linked Short QT Syndrome. Front Physiol 2019; 9:1888. [PMID: 30687112 PMCID: PMC6336736 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Short QT syndrome variant 1 (SQT1) arises due to gain-of-function mutations to the human Ether-à-go-go-Related Gene (hERG), which encodes the α subunit of channels carrying rapid delayed rectifier potassium current, IKr. In addition to QT interval shortening and ventricular arrhythmias, SQT1 is associated with increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF), which is often the only clinical presentation. However, the underlying basis of AF and its pharmacological treatment remain incompletely understood in the context of SQT1. In this study, computational modeling was used to investigate mechanisms of human atrial arrhythmogenesis consequent to a SQT1 mutation, as well as pharmacotherapeutic effects of selected class I drugs–disopyramide, quinidine, and propafenone. A Markov chain formulation describing wild type (WT) and N588K-hERG mutant IKr was incorporated into a contemporary human atrial action potential (AP) model, which was integrated into one-dimensional (1D) tissue strands, idealized 2D sheets, and a 3D heterogeneous, anatomical human atria model. Multi-channel pharmacological effects of disopyramide, quinidine, and propafenone, including binding kinetics for IKr/hERG and sodium current, INa, were considered. Heterozygous and homozygous formulations of the N588K-hERG mutation shortened the AP duration (APD) by 53 and 86 ms, respectively, which abbreviated the effective refractory period (ERP) and excitation wavelength in tissue, increasing the lifespan and dominant frequency (DF) of scroll waves in the 3D anatomical human atria. At the concentrations tested in this study, quinidine most effectively prolonged the APD and ERP in the setting of SQT1, followed by disopyramide and propafenone. In 2D simulations, disopyramide and quinidine promoted re-entry termination by increasing the re-entry wavelength, whereas propafenone induced secondary waves which destabilized the re-entrant circuit. In 3D simulations, the DF of re-entry was reduced in a dose-dependent manner for disopyramide and quinidine, and propafenone to a lesser extent. All of the anti-arrhythmic agents promoted pharmacological conversion, most frequently terminating re-entry in the order quinidine > propafenone = disopyramide. Our findings provide further insight into mechanisms of SQT1-related AF and a rational basis for the pursuit of combined IKr and INa block based pharmacological strategies in the treatment of SQT1-linked AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic G Whittaker
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom.,Biological Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jules C Hancox
- Biological Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Medical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Henggui Zhang
- Biological Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,School of Computer Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China.,Space Institute of Southern China, Shenzhen, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education and Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
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8
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Butler A, Zhang Y, Stuart AG, Dempsey CE, Hancox JC. Action potential clamp characterization of the S631A hERG mutation associated with short QT syndrome. Physiol Rep 2018; 6:e13845. [PMID: 30175559 PMCID: PMC6119704 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.13845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The hERG potassium channel is critical to normal repolarization of cardiac action potentials (APs) and loss- and gain-of-function hERG mutations are associated, respectively, with long and short QT syndromes, pathological conditions that can lead to arrhythmias and sudden death. hERG current (IhERG ) exhibits uniquely fast inactivation involving conformational changes to the channel pore. The S631A hERG pore mutation was originally engineered to interrogate hERG channel inactivation, but has very recently been found in a family with short QT syndrome (SQTS). Accordingly, this study characterized the effects of the S631A mutation on IhERG profile during ventricular, atrial, and Purkinje fiber (PF) AP waveforms, using patch clamp recording from hERG expressing HEK 293 cells at 37°C. Under conventional voltage clamp, the current-voltage (I-V) relation for IhERG exhibited a marked right-ward shift in the region of negative slope at positive membrane potentials. Under ventricular AP clamp, the S631A mutation resulted in augmented IhERG , which also peaked much earlier during the AP plateau than did wild-type (WT) IhERG . Instantaneous I-V relations showed a marked positive shift in peak repolarizing current during the ventricular AP in the S631A setting, while the instantaneous conductance-voltage relation showed an earlier and more sustained rise in S631A compared to WT IhERG conductance during ventricular repolarization. Experiments with atrial and PF APs in each case also showed augmented and positively shifted IhERG in the S631A setting, indicating that the S631A mutation is likely to accelerate repolarization in all three cardiac regions. Ventricular AP clamp experiments showed retained effectiveness of the class Ia antiarrhythmic drug quinidine (1 μmol/L) against S631A IhERG . Quinidine is thus likely to be effective in reducing excessively fast repolarization in SQTS resulting from the S631A hERG mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Butler
- School of PhysiologyPharmacology and NeuroscienceMedical Sciences BuildingUniversity WalkBristolUnited Kingdom
| | - Yihong Zhang
- School of PhysiologyPharmacology and NeuroscienceMedical Sciences BuildingUniversity WalkBristolUnited Kingdom
| | - Alan G. Stuart
- Bristol Heart InstituteUniversity of BristolBristolUnited Kingdom
| | | | - Jules C. Hancox
- School of PhysiologyPharmacology and NeuroscienceMedical Sciences BuildingUniversity WalkBristolUnited Kingdom
- Bristol Heart InstituteUniversity of BristolBristolUnited Kingdom
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9
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Hancox JC, Whittaker DG, Du C, Stuart AG, Zhang H. Emerging therapeutic targets in the short QT syndrome. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2018; 22:439-451. [DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2018.1470621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jules C Hancox
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Medical Sciences Building, University Walk, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Biological Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Dominic G Whittaker
- Biological Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Chunyun Du
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Medical Sciences Building, University Walk, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - A. Graham Stuart
- Cardiology, Bristol Heart Institute, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Henggui Zhang
- Biological Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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10
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Enriquez A, Antzelevitch C, Bismah V, Baranchuk A. Atrial fibrillation in inherited cardiac channelopathies: From mechanisms to management. Heart Rhythm 2016; 13:1878-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2016.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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11
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German DM, Kabir MM, Dewland TA, Henrikson CA, Tereshchenko LG. Atrial Fibrillation Predictors: Importance of the Electrocardiogram. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2016; 21:20-29. [PMID: 26523405 DOI: 10.1111/anec] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in adults and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Substantial interest has developed in the primary prevention of AF, and thus the identification of individuals at risk for developing AF. The electrocardiogram (ECG) provides a wealth of information, which is of value in predicting incident AF. The PR interval and P wave indices (including P wave duration, P wave terminal force, P wave axis, and other measures of P wave morphology) are discussed with regard to their ability to predict and characterize AF risk in the general population. The predictive value of the QT interval, ECG criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy, and findings of atrial and ventricular ectopy are also discussed. Efforts are underway to develop models that predict AF incidence in the general population; however, at present, little information from the ECG is included in these models. The ECG provides a great deal of information on AF risk and has the potential to contribute substantially to AF risk estimation, but more research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M German
- Department of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Muammar M Kabir
- Department of Medicine, The Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Thomas A Dewland
- Department of Medicine, The Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Charles A Henrikson
- Department of Medicine, The Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Larisa G Tereshchenko
- Department of Medicine, The Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
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12
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German DM, Kabir MM, Dewland TA, Henrikson CA, Tereshchenko LG. Atrial Fibrillation Predictors: Importance of the Electrocardiogram. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2015; 21:20-9. [PMID: 26523405 DOI: 10.1111/anec.12321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in adults and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Substantial interest has developed in the primary prevention of AF, and thus the identification of individuals at risk for developing AF. The electrocardiogram (ECG) provides a wealth of information, which is of value in predicting incident AF. The PR interval and P wave indices (including P wave duration, P wave terminal force, P wave axis, and other measures of P wave morphology) are discussed with regard to their ability to predict and characterize AF risk in the general population. The predictive value of the QT interval, ECG criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy, and findings of atrial and ventricular ectopy are also discussed. Efforts are underway to develop models that predict AF incidence in the general population; however, at present, little information from the ECG is included in these models. The ECG provides a great deal of information on AF risk and has the potential to contribute substantially to AF risk estimation, but more research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M German
- Department of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Muammar M Kabir
- Department of Medicine, The Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Thomas A Dewland
- Department of Medicine, The Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Charles A Henrikson
- Department of Medicine, The Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Larisa G Tereshchenko
- Department of Medicine, The Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR
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13
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Tülümen E, Giustetto C, Wolpert C, Maury P, Anttonen O, Probst V, Blanc JJ, Sbragia P, Scrocco C, Rudic B, Veltmann C, Sun Y, Gaita F, Antzelevitch C, Borggrefe M, Schimpf R. PQ segment depression in patients with short QT syndrome: a novel marker for diagnosing short QT syndrome? Heart Rhythm 2014; 11:1024-30. [PMID: 24589867 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2014.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with short QT syndrome (SQTS) have an increased risk for atrial tachyarrhythmias, ventricular tachyarrhythmias, and/or sudden cardiac death. PQ segment depression (PQD) is related to atrial fibrillation and carries a poor prognosis in the setting of acute inferior myocardial infarction and is a well-defined electrocardiographic (ECG) marker of acute pericarditis. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prevalence of PQD in SQTS and to analyze the association with atrial arrhythmias. METHODS Digitalized 12-lead ECGs of SQTS patients were evaluated for PQD in all leads and for QT intervals in leads II and V5. PQD was defined as ≥0.05 mV (0.5 mm) depression from the isoelectric line. RESULTS A total of 760 leads from 64 SQTS patients (mean age 36 ± 18 years; 48 [75%] men) were analyzed. PQD was seen in 265 (35%) leads from 52 (81%) patients and was more frequent in leads II, V3, aVF, V4, and I (n = 43 [67%], n = 30 [47%], n = 27 [42%], n = 25 [39%], and n = 25 [39%], respectively). Nine of 64 (14%) patients presented with atrial tachyarrhythmias, and all of them had PQD. CONCLUSION Fifty-two of 64 (81%) patients with SQTS reveal PQD. As PQD is rarely observed in healthy individuals, this ECG stigma may constitute a novel marker for SQTS in addition to a short QT interval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erol Tülümen
- University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Carla Giustetto
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Christian Wolpert
- Department of Medicine-Cardiology, Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care Medicine, Klinikum Ludwigsburg, Ludwigsburg, Germany
| | - Philippe Maury
- Federation of Cardiology, University Hospital Rangueil, Toulouse, France
| | - Olli Anttonen
- Division of Cardiology, Lahti Central Hospital, Lahti, Finland
| | - Vincent Probst
- Service de Cardiologie, Institut du Thorax, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Jean-Jacques Blanc
- Departement de Cardiologie, Université de Bretagne Occidentale, Hôpital de la Cavale Blanche, Brest, France
| | | | | | - Boris Rudic
- University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christian Veltmann
- University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Germany
| | - Yaxun Sun
- Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Fiorenzo Gaita
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Martin Borggrefe
- University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rainer Schimpf
- University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Germany
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14
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Abstract
Late I Na is an integral part of the sodium current, which persists long after the fast-inactivating component. The magnitude of the late I Na is relatively small in all species and in all types of cardiomyocytes as compared with the amplitude of the fast sodium current, but it contributes significantly to the shape and duration of the action potential. This late component had been shown to increase in several acquired or congenital conditions, including hypoxia, oxidative stress, and heart failure, or due to mutations in SCN5A, which encodes the α-subunit of the sodium channel, as well as in channel-interacting proteins, including multiple β subunits and anchoring proteins. Patients with enhanced late I Na exhibit the type-3 long QT syndrome (LQT3) characterized by high propensity for the life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, such as Torsade de Pointes (TdP), as well as for atrial fibrillation. There are several distinct mechanisms of arrhythmogenesis due to abnormal late I Na, including abnormal automaticity, early and delayed after depolarization-induced triggered activity, and dramatic increase of ventricular dispersion of repolarization. Many local anesthetic and antiarrhythmic agents have a higher potency to block late I Na as compared with fast I Na. Several novel compounds, including ranolazine, GS-458967, and F15845, appear to be the most selective inhibitors of cardiac late I Na reported to date. Selective inhibition of late I Na is expected to be an effective strategy for correcting these acquired and congenital channelopathies.
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Sanguinetti MC. HERG1 channel agonists and cardiac arrhythmia. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2013; 15:22-7. [PMID: 24721650 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2013.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2013] [Revised: 11/06/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Type 1 human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG1) potassium channels are a key determinant of normal repolarization of cardiac action potentials. Loss of function mutations in hERG1 channels cause inherited long QT syndrome and increased risk of cardiac arrhythmia and sudden death. Many common medications that block hERG1 channels as an unintended side effect also increase arrhythmic risk. Routine preclinical screening for hERG1 block led to the discovery of agonists that shorten action potential duration and QT interval. Agonists have the potential to be used as pharmacotherapy for long QT syndrome, but can also be proarrhythmic. Recent studies have elucidated multiple mechanisms of action for these compounds and the structural basis for their binding to the pore domain of the hERG1 channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael C Sanguinetti
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research & Training Institute, University of Utah, 95 South 2000 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.
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Di Diego JM, Sicouri S, Myles RC, Burton FL, Smith GL, Antzelevitch C. Optical and electrical recordings from isolated coronary-perfused ventricular wedge preparations. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2012; 54:53-64. [PMID: 23142540 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2012.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2012] [Revised: 10/22/2012] [Accepted: 10/29/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The electrophysiological heterogeneity that exists across the ventricular wall in the mammalian heart has long been recognized, but remains an area that is incompletely understood. Experimental studies of the mechanisms of arrhythmogenesis in the whole heart often examine the epicardial surface in isolation and thereby disregard transmural electrophysiology. Significant heterogeneity exists in the electrophysiological properties of cardiomyocytes isolated from different layers of the ventricular wall, and given that regional heterogeneities of membrane repolarization properties can influence the electrophysiological substrate for re-entry, the diversity of cell types and characteristics spanning the ventricular wall is important in the study of arrhythmogenesis. For these reasons, coronary-perfused left ventricular wedge preparations have been developed to permit the study of transmural electrophysiology in the intact ventricle. Since the first report by Yan and Antzelevitch in 1996, electrical recordings from the transmural surface of canine wedge preparations have provided a wealth of data regarding the cellular basis for the electrocardiogram, the role of transmural heterogeneity in arrhythmogenesis, and differences in the response of the different ventricular layers to drugs and neurohormones. Use of the wedge preparation has since been expanded to other species and more recently it has also been widely used in optical mapping studies. The isolated perfused wedge preparation has become an important tool in cardiac electrophysiology. In this review, we detail the methodology involved in recording both electrical and optical signals from the coronary-perfused wedge preparation and review the advances in cardiac electrophysiology achieved through study of the wedge.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M Di Diego
- Masonic Medical Research Laboratory, 2150 Bleecker St., Utica, NY 13501, USA
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18
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Li P, Tanaka S, Ichiyanagi T, Ninomiya H, Ting Y, Utami SB, Aimi T, Shirayoshi Y, Miake J, Hisatome I. Novel effects of extracts from poisonous mushrooms on expression and function of the human ether-a-go-go-related gene channel. Biol Pharm Bull 2011; 34:1474-80. [PMID: 21881236 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.34.1474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) encodes the α subunit of the potassium current I(Kr), which plays a pivotal role in cardiac action potential repolarization. Inherited mutations of this gene cause Long QT syndrome type 2. hERG expression is altered by several types of drugs as well as by temperature. Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) and Heat shock cognate protein 70 (Hsc70) have reciprocal effects on hERG proteins. We examined the effects of poisonous mushrooms on hERG protein expression and its channel function. METHODS We evaluated the effects of several types of poisonous mushrooms on the expression and function of wild-type hERG by Western blotting, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and patch clamping in transfected HEK293 cells and mouse HL-1 cardiomyocytes. RESULTS Extracts of Gymnopilus junonius (junonius) increased expression of both hERG and Hsp70 in HEK293 cells with concomitant decrease in Hsc70, whereas extracts of Amanita ibotengutake (ibotengutake) decreased hERG proteins with increase in Hsc70. Knockdown of Hsp70 and Hsc70 by small interfering RNA abolished the effects of the two mushrooms on hERG, respectively. Certain fractions of junonius increased expression of hERG proteins. hERG currents were increased by extracts of junonius, resulting in shortening of action potential duration (APD). In contrast, hERG currents were decreased and APD was prolonged by extracts of ibotengutake. CONCLUSION junonius enhanced the expression and function of hERG by increasing Hsp70 and decreasing Hsc70. Ibotengutake decreased hERG expression via increase in Hsc70. Constituents of junonius may have the potential for use in treatment of arrhythmia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peili Li
- Division of Regenerative Medicine and Therapeutics, Department of Genetic Medicine and Regenerative Therapeutics, Institute of Regenerative Medicine and Biofunction, Graduate School of Medical Science, Tottori University, Japan
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Supplemental Studies for Cardiovascular Risk Assessment in Safety Pharmacology: A Critical Overview. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2011; 11:285-307. [DOI: 10.1007/s12012-011-9133-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Zhang YH, Colenso CK, Sessions RB, Dempsey CE, Hancox JC. The hERG K(+) channel S4 domain L532P mutation: characterization at 37°C. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2011; 1808:2477-87. [PMID: 21777565 PMCID: PMC3245891 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2011.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2011] [Revised: 06/28/2011] [Accepted: 07/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
hERG (human Ether-à-go-go Related Gene) is responsible for ion channels mediating rapid delayed rectifier potassium current, IKr, which is key to cardiac action potential repolarization. Gain-of-function hERG mutations give rise to the SQT1 variant of the Short QT Syndrome (SQTS). Reggae mutant zebrafish, with a S4 zERG mutation (Leucine499Proline; L499P), display arrhythmic features analogous to those seen in the SQTS. The affected S4 domain ERG residue is highly conserved. This study was executed to determine how the homologous hERG mutation (L532P) influences channel function at 37 °C. Whole-cell measurements of current (IhERG) were made from HEK 293 cells expressing WT or L532P hERG. The half maximal activation voltage (V0.5) of L532P IhERG was positively shifted by ~+36 mV compared to WT IhERG; however at negative voltages a pronounced L532P IhERG was observed. Both activation and deactivation time-courses were accelerated for L532P IhERG. The inactivation V0.5 for L532P IhERG was shifted by ~+32 mV. Under action potential (AP) voltage-clamp, L532P IhERG exhibited a dome-shaped current peaking at ~+16 mV, compared to ~−31 mV for WT-IhERG. The L532P mutation produced an ~ 5-fold increase in the IC50 for dronedarone inhibition of IhERG. Homology modeling indicated that the L532 residue within the S4 helix lies closely apposed to the S5 region of an adjacent hERG subunit. Alterations to the S4 domain structure and, potentially, to interactions between adjacent hERG subunits are likely to account for the functional effects of this mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi H Zhang
- University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK
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Circulating KCNH2 current-activating factor in patients with heart failure and ventricular tachyarrhythmia. PLoS One 2011; 6:e19897. [PMID: 21625547 PMCID: PMC3098251 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0019897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2010] [Accepted: 04/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is estimated that approximately half of the deaths in patients with HF are sudden and that the most likely causes of sudden death are lethal ventricular tachyarrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia (VT) or fibrillation (VF). However, the precise mechanism of ventricular tachyarrhythmias remains unknown. The KCNH2 channel conducting the delayed rectifier K(+) current (I(Kr)) is recognized as the most susceptible channel in acquired long QT syndrome. Recent findings have revealed that not only suppression but also enhancement of I(Kr) increase vulnerability to major arrhythmic events, as seen in short QT syndrome. Therefore, we investigated the existence of a circulating KCNH2 current-modifying factor in patients with HF. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We examined the effects of serum of HF patients on recombinant I(Kr) recorded from HEK 293 cells stably expressing KCNH2 by using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. Study subjects were 14 patients with non-ischemic HF and 6 normal controls. Seven patients had a history of documented ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VT: 7 and VF: 1). Overnight treatment with 2% serum obtained from HF patients with ventricular arrhythmia resulted in a significant enhancement in the peaks of I(Kr) tail currents compared to the serum from normal controls and HF patients without ventricular arrhythmia. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Here we provide the first evidence for the presence of a circulating KCNH2 channel activator in patients with HF and ventricular tachyarrhythmias. This factor may be responsible for arhythmogenesis in patients with HF.
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Antzelevitch C, Burashnikov A. Overview of Basic Mechanisms of Cardiac Arrhythmia. Card Electrophysiol Clin 2011; 3:23-45. [PMID: 21892379 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccep.2010.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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CHANG SHENGHSIUNG, ULFARSSON MAGNUS, CHUGH AMAN, YOSHIDA KENTARO, JONGNARANGSIN KRIT, CRAWFORD THOMAS, GOOD ERIC, PELOSI FRANK, BOGUN FRANK, MORADY FRED, ORAL HAKAN. Time- and Frequency-Domain Characteristics of Atrial Electrograms During Sinus Rhythm and Atrial Fibrillation. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2011; 22:851-7. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8167.2011.02022.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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