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Tubeeckx MRL, De Keulenaer GW, Heidbuchel H, Segers VFM. Pathophysiology and clinical relevance of atrial myopathy. Basic Res Cardiol 2024; 119:215-242. [PMID: 38472506 DOI: 10.1007/s00395-024-01038-0] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Atrial myopathy is a condition that consists of electrical, structural, contractile, and autonomic remodeling of the atria and is the substrate for development of atrial fibrillation, the most common arrhythmia. Pathophysiologic mechanisms driving atrial myopathy are inflammation, oxidative stress, atrial stretch, and neurohormonal signals, e.g., angiotensin-II and aldosterone. These mechanisms initiate the structural and functional remodeling of the atrial myocardium. Novel therapeutic strategies are being developed that target the pathophysiologic mechanisms of atrial myopathy. In this review, we will discuss the pathophysiology of atrial myopathy, as well as diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiel R L Tubeeckx
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, Universiteitsplein 1, Building T (2nd Floor), 2610, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Gilles W De Keulenaer
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, Universiteitsplein 1, Building T (2nd Floor), 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, ZNA Middelheim Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Hein Heidbuchel
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Vincent F M Segers
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, Universiteitsplein 1, Building T (2nd Floor), 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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Winters J, Isaacs A, Zeemering S, Kawczynski M, Maesen B, Maessen J, Bidar E, Boukens B, Hermans B, van Hunnik A, Casadei B, Fabritz L, Chua W, Sommerfeld L, Guasch E, Mont L, Batlle M, Hatem S, Kirchhof P, Wakili R, Sinner M, Stoll M, Goette A, Verheule S, Schotten U. Heart Failure, Female Sex, and Atrial Fibrillation Are the Main Drivers of Human Atrial Cardiomyopathy: Results From the CATCH ME Consortium. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e031220. [PMID: 37982389 PMCID: PMC10727294 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.031220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial cardiomyopathy (atCM) is an emerging prognostic factor in cardiovascular disease. Fibrotic remodeling, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, and capillary density are hallmarks of atCM. The contribution of etiological factors and atrial fibrillation (AF) to the development of differential atCM phenotypes has not been quantified. This study aimed to evaluate the association between histological features of atCM and the clinical phenotype. METHODS AND RESULTS We examined left atrial (LA, n=95) and right atrial (RA, n=76) appendages from a European cohort of patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Quantification of histological atCM features was performed following wheat germ agglutinin/CD31/vimentin staining. The contributions of AF, heart failure, sex, and age to histological characteristics were determined with multiple linear regression models. Persistent AF was associated with increased endomysial fibrosis (LA: +1.13±0.47 μm, P=0.038; RA: +0.94±0.38 μm, P=0.041), whereas total extracellular matrix content was not. Men had larger cardiomyocytes (LA: +1.92±0.72 μm, P<0.001), while women had more endomysial fibrosis (LA: +0.99±0.56 μm, P=0.003). Patients with heart failure showed more endomysial fibrosis (LA: +1.85±0.48 μm, P<0.001) and extracellular matrix content (LA: +3.07±1.29%, P=0.016), and a higher capillary density (LA: +0.13±0.06, P=0.007) and size (LA: +0.46±0.22 μm, P=0.044). Fuzzy k-means clustering of histological features identified 2 subtypes of atCM: 1 characterized by enhanced endomysial fibrosis (LA: +3.17 μm, P<0.001; RA: +2.86 μm, P<0.001), extracellular matrix content (LA: +3.53%, P<0.001; RA: +6.40%, P<0.001) and fibroblast density (LA: +4.38%, P<0.001), and 1 characterized by cardiomyocyte hypertrophy (LA: +1.16 μm, P=0.008; RA: +2.58 μm, P<0.001). Patients with fibrotic atCM were more frequently female (LA: odds ratio [OR], 1.33, P=0.002; RA: OR, 1.54, P=0.004), with persistent AF (LA: OR, 1.22, P=0.036) or heart failure (LA: OR, 1.62, P<0.001). Hypertrophic features were more common in men (LA: OR=1.33, P=0.002; RA: OR, 1.54, P=0.004). CONCLUSIONS Fibrotic atCM is associated with female sex, persistent AF, and heart failure, while hypertrophic features are more common in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joris Winters
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Aaron Isaacs
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
- Maastricht Centre for Systems Biology University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Stef Zeemering
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Michal Kawczynski
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery Maastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Bart Maesen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery Maastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Jos Maessen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery Maastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Elham Bidar
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery Maastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Bas Boukens
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Ben Hermans
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Arne van Hunnik
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Barbara Casadei
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, BHF Centre of Research Excellence University of Oxford Oxford United Kingdom
| | - Larissa Fabritz
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences Birmingham United Kingdom
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science UKE Hamburg Hamburg Germany
- University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
- DZHK, Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck Lübeck Germany
| | - Winnie Chua
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences Birmingham United Kingdom
| | - Laura Sommerfeld
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences Birmingham United Kingdom
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science UKE Hamburg Hamburg Germany
- University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
- DZHK, Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck Lübeck Germany
| | - Eduard Guasch
- Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS) Barcelona Spain
| | - Luis Mont
- Clinic Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona Barcelona Spain
| | - Montserrat Batlle
- Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS) Barcelona Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-Cardiovascular (CIBERCV) Madrid Spain
| | | | - Paulus Kirchhof
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences Birmingham United Kingdom
- University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
- DZHK, Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck Lübeck Germany
| | - Reza Wakili
- Department of Medicine and Cardiology Goethe University Frankfurt Germany
| | - Mortiz Sinner
- University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf Hamburg Germany
- DZHK, Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck Lübeck Germany
- Department of Cardiology University Hospital of Munich Munich Germany
| | - Monica Stoll
- Maastricht Centre for Systems Biology University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetic Epidemiology and Statistical Genetics University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology, Institute of Human Genetics University of Münster Münster Germany
| | - Andreas Goette
- Department of Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine St. Vincenz Hospital Paderborn Paderborn Germany
| | - Sander Verheule
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht University Maastricht Maastricht The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology Maastricht University Medical Centre+ Maastricht The Netherlands
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Cofiño-Fabres C, Passier R, Schwach V. Towards Improved Human In Vitro Models for Cardiac Arrhythmia: Disease Mechanisms, Treatment, and Models of Atrial Fibrillation. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2355. [PMID: 37760796 PMCID: PMC10525681 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092355] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Heart rhythm disorders, arrhythmias, place a huge economic burden on society and have a large impact on the quality of life of a vast number of people. Arrhythmias can have genetic causes but primarily arise from heart tissue remodeling during aging or heart disease. As current therapies do not address the causes of arrhythmias but only manage the symptoms, it is of paramount importance to generate innovative test models and platforms for gaining knowledge about the underlying disease mechanisms which are compatible with drug screening. In this review, we outline the most important features of atrial fibrillation (AFib), the most common cardiac arrhythmia. We will discuss the epidemiology, risk factors, underlying causes, and present therapies of AFib, as well as the shortcomings and opportunities of current models for cardiac arrhythmia, including animal models, in silico and in vitro models utilizing human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived cardiomyocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Cofiño-Fabres
- Department of Applied Stem Cell Technologies, TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands;
| | - Robert Passier
- Department of Applied Stem Cell Technologies, TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands;
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Centre, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Verena Schwach
- Department of Applied Stem Cell Technologies, TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands;
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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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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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Miao Y, Xu M, Yang L, Zhang C, Liu H, Shao X. Investigating the association between P wave duration and atrial fibrillation recurrence after radiofrequency ablation in early persistent atrial fibrillation patients. Int J Cardiol 2021; 351:48-54. [PMID: 34954277 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2021.12.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the present study, we aimed to explore the association between P wave duration, as the measured time from the start point of the P wave to the end point, and atrial fibrillation recurrence after transcatheter radiofrequency ablation in patients with early persistent atrial fibrillation. METHODS Patients with early persistent atrial fibrillation who underwent the first radiofrequency ablation procedure were retrospectively analyzed. The electrocardiographic, echocardiographic and clinical data of the enrolled patients before and after operation were collected and recorded. After adjusting confounding factors and performing stratified analysis, the association between the P wave duration and the atrial fibrillation recurrence of patients with early persistent atrial fibrillation after radiofrequency ablation was explored. RESULTS The proportions of atrial fibrillation recurrence of the low, medium, and high P wave duration groups were 6.4%, 19.7%, and 47.0%, respectively. After potential confounding factors were adjusted, the risk of atrial fibrillation recurrence gradually increased with the increase of P wave duration (odds ratio: 1.093, 95% confidence interval: 1.063-1.124, p < 0.001). This trend was statistically significant (odds ratio: 1.099, 95% confidence interval: 1.052-1.149, p < 0.001), especially in comparison of high vs. low (odds ratio: 16.99, 95% confidence interval: 4.75-60.78, p < 0.001). Curve fitting showed that there was a linear and positive association between the P wave duration and the risk of atrial fibrillation recurrence. This association was consistent in different subgroups based on gender, drinking, history of smoking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, peripheral artery disease, stroke or transient ischemia attack, hyperlipidemia, heart failure, and heart rate, suggesting that there was no significant interaction between different grouping parameters and the association (p for interaction range = 0.217-0.965). CONCLUSIONS In patients with early persistent atrial fibrillation who underwent radiofrequency ablation procedure for the first time and converted to sinus rhythm, the P wave duration within 72 h after the procedure was independently associated with the risk of atrial fibrillation recurrence, and such association was linear and positive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxia Miao
- Department of Cardiovascular Division of The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Chang Zhou City 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Min Xu
- Department of Cardiovascular Division of The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Chang Zhou City 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Ling Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Division of The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Chang Zhou City 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Chunxu Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Division of Changzhou Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chang Zhou City 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Huannian Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Division of Changzhou Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Chang Zhou City 213000, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Xiaoliang Shao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine of The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Chang Zhou City 213000, Jiangsu Province, China
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Verheule S, Schotten U. Electrophysiological Consequences of Cardiac Fibrosis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10113220. [PMID: 34831442 PMCID: PMC8625398 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
For both the atria and ventricles, fibrosis is generally recognized as one of the key determinants of conduction disturbances. By definition, fibrosis refers to an increased amount of fibrous tissue. However, fibrosis is not a singular entity. Various forms can be distinguished, that differ in distribution: replacement fibrosis, endomysial and perimysial fibrosis, and perivascular, endocardial, and epicardial fibrosis. These different forms typically result from diverging pathophysiological mechanisms and can have different consequences for conduction. The impact of fibrosis on propagation depends on exactly how the patterns of electrical connections between myocytes are altered. We will therefore first consider the normal patterns of electrical connections and their regional diversity as determinants of propagation. Subsequently, we will summarize current knowledge on how different forms of fibrosis lead to a loss of electrical connectivity in order to explain their effects on propagation and mechanisms of arrhythmogenesis, including ectopy, reentry, and alternans. Finally, we will discuss a histological quantification of fibrosis. Because of the different forms of fibrosis and their diverging effects on electrical propagation, the total amount of fibrosis is a poor indicator for the effect on conduction. Ideally, an assessment of cardiac fibrosis should exclude fibrous tissue that does not affect conduction and differentiate between the various types that do; in this article, we highlight practical solutions for histological analysis that meet these requirements.
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Denham NC, Pearman CM, Madders GWP, Smith CER, Trafford AW, Dibb KM. Optimising Large Animal Models of Sustained Atrial Fibrillation: Relevance of the Critical Mass Hypothesis. Front Physiol 2021; 12:690897. [PMID: 34211405 PMCID: PMC8239221 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.690897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Large animal models play an important role in our understanding of the pathophysiology of atrial fibrillation (AF). Our aim was to determine whether prospectively collected baseline variables could predict the development of sustained AF in sheep, thereby reducing the number of animals required in future studies. Our hypothesis was that the relationship between atrial dimensions, refractory periods and conduction velocity (otherwise known as the critical mass hypothesis) could be used for the first time to predict the development of sustained AF. METHODS Healthy adult Welsh mountain sheep underwent a baseline electrophysiology study followed by implantation of a neurostimulator connected via an endocardial pacing lead to the right atrial appendage. The device was programmed to deliver intermittent 50 Hz bursts of 30 s duration over an 8-week period whilst sheep were monitored for AF. RESULTS Eighteen sheep completed the protocol, of which 28% developed sustained AF. Logistic regression analysis showed only fibrillation number (calculated using the critical mass hypothesis as the left atrial diameter divided by the product of atrial conduction velocity and effective refractory period) was associated with an increased likelihood of developing sustained AF (Ln Odds Ratio 26.1 [95% confidence intervals 0.2-52.0] p = 0.048). A receiver-operator characteristic curve showed this could be used to predict which sheep developed sustained AF (C-statistic 0.82 [95% confidence intervals 0.59-1.04] p = 0.04). CONCLUSION The critical mass hypothesis can be used to predict sustained AF in a tachypaced ovine model. These findings can be used to optimise the design of future studies involving large animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan C. Denham
- Unit of Cardiac Physiology, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Freudenberger T, Kranz B, Lehmann W, Schäfer K, Münter K, Lee K, Ellinor PT, Hucker WJ. Identification of two preclinical canine models of atrial fibrillation to facilitate drug discovery. Heart Rhythm 2020; 18:632-640. [PMID: 33346136 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2020.12.015] [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: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia occurring in humans, and new treatment strategies are critically needed. The lack of reliable preclinical animal models of AF is a major limitation to drug development of novel antiarrhythmic compounds. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to provide a comprehensive head-to-head assessment of 5 canine AF models. METHODS Five canine models were evaluated for the efficacy of AF induction and AF duration. We tested 2 acute models: short-term atrial tachypacing (AT) for 6 hours with analysis of AF at hourly increments, and carbachol injection into a cardiac fat pad followed by short-term AT. We also tested 3 chronic models: pacemaker implantation followed by either 4 weeks of AT and subsequent atrial burst pacing or intermittent long-term AT for up to 4-5 months to generate AF ≥4.5 hours, and finally ventricular tachypacing to induce heart failure followed by atrial burst pacing to induce AF. RESULTS Careful evaluation showed that acute AT, AT for 4 weeks, and the heart failure model all were unsuccessful in generating reproducible AF episodes of sufficient duration to study antiarrhythmic drugs. In contrast, intermittent long-term AT generated AF lasting ≥4.5 hours in ∼30% of animals. The acute model using carbachol and short-term AT resulted in AF induction of ≥15 minutes in ≥75% of animals, thus enabling testing of antiarrhythmic drugs. CONCLUSION Intermittent long-term AT and the combination of local carbachol injection with successive short-term AT may contribute to future drug development efforts for AF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Till Freudenberger
- Bayer AG, Research and Development, Pharmaceuticals, Wuppertal, Germany.
| | - Beate Kranz
- Bayer AG, Research and Development, Pharmaceuticals, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Waldemar Lehmann
- Bayer AG, Research and Development, Pharmaceuticals, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Katja Schäfer
- Bayer AG, Research and Development, Pharmaceuticals, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Klaus Münter
- Bayer AG, Research and Development, Pharmaceuticals, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Kichang Lee
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service & Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Patrick T Ellinor
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service & Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts.
| | - William J Hucker
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service & Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Mikhailov AV, Kalyanasundaram A, Li N, Scott SS, Artiga EJ, Subr MM, Zhao J, Hansen BJ, Hummel JD, Fedorov VV. Comprehensive evaluation of electrophysiological and 3D structural features of human atrial myocardium with insights on atrial fibrillation maintenance mechanisms. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2020; 151:56-71. [PMID: 33130148 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2020.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) occurrence and maintenance is associated with progressive remodeling of electrophysiological (repolarization and conduction) and 3D structural (fibrosis, fiber orientations, and wall thickness) features of the human atria. Significant diversity in AF etiology leads to heterogeneous arrhythmogenic electrophysiological and structural substrates within the 3D structure of the human atria. Since current clinical methods have yet to fully resolve the patient-specific arrhythmogenic substrates, mechanism-based AF treatments remain underdeveloped. Here, we review current knowledge from in-vivo, ex-vivo, and in-vitro human heart studies, and discuss how these studies may provide new insights on the synergy of atrial electrophysiological and 3D structural features in AF maintenance. In-vitro studies on surgically acquired human atrial samples provide a great opportunity to study a wide spectrum of AF pathology, including functional changes in single-cell action potentials, ion channels, and gene/protein expression. However, limited size of the samples prevents evaluation of heterogeneous AF substrates and reentrant mechanisms. In contrast, coronary-perfused ex-vivo human hearts can be studied with state-of-the-art functional and structural technologies, such as high-resolution near-infrared optical mapping and contrast-enhanced MRI. These imaging modalities can resolve atrial arrhythmogenic substrates and their role in reentrant mechanisms maintaining AF and validate clinical approaches. Nonetheless, longitudinal studies are not feasible in explanted human hearts. As no approach is perfect, we suggest that combining the strengths of direct human atrial studies with high fidelity approaches available in the laboratory and in realistic patient-specific computer models would elucidate deeper knowledge of AF mechanisms. We propose that a comprehensive translational pipeline from ex-vivo human heart studies to longitudinal clinically relevant AF animal studies and finally to clinical trials is necessary to identify patient-specific arrhythmogenic substrates and develop novel AF treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksei V Mikhailov
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Bob and Corrine Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Arrhythmology Research Department, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anuradha Kalyanasundaram
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Bob and Corrine Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ning Li
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Bob and Corrine Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Shane S Scott
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Bob and Corrine Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Esthela J Artiga
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Bob and Corrine Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Megan M Subr
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Bob and Corrine Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jichao Zhao
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Brian J Hansen
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Bob and Corrine Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - John D Hummel
- Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Vadim V Fedorov
- Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Bob and Corrine Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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11
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Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia encountered in humans and is a significant source of morbidity and mortality. Despite its prevalence, our mechanistic understanding is incomplete, the therapeutic options have limited efficacy, and are often fraught with risks. A better biological understanding of AF is needed to spearhead novel therapeutic avenues. Although "natural" AF is nearly nonexistent in most species, animal models have contributed significantly to our understanding of AF and some therapeutic options. However, the impediments of animal models are also apparent and stem largely from the differences in basic physiology as well as the complexities underlying human AF; these preclude the creation of a "perfect" animal model and have obviated the translation of animal findings. Herein, we review the vast array of AF models available, spanning the mouse heart (weighing 1/1000th of a human heart) to the horse heart (10× heavier than the human heart). We attempt to highlight the features of each model that bring value to our understanding of AF but also the shortcomings and pitfalls. Finally, we borrowed the concept of a SWOT analysis from the business community (which stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) and applied this introspective type of analysis to animal models for AF. We identify unmet needs and stress that is in the context of rapidly advancing technologies, these present opportunities for the future use of animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Schüttler
- From the Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Campus Großhadern, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Germany (D.S., S.K., P.T., S.C.).,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance (MHA), Germany (D.S., S.K., P.T., S.C.).,Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Germany (D.S., P.T., S.C.)
| | - Aneesh Bapat
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (A.B., K.L., W.J.H.).,Cardiac Arrhythmia Service, Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston (A.B., W.J.H.)
| | - Stefan Kääb
- From the Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Campus Großhadern, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Germany (D.S., S.K., P.T., S.C.).,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance (MHA), Germany (D.S., S.K., P.T., S.C.)
| | - Kichang Lee
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (A.B., K.L., W.J.H.)
| | - Philipp Tomsits
- From the Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Campus Großhadern, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Germany (D.S., S.K., P.T., S.C.).,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance (MHA), Germany (D.S., S.K., P.T., S.C.).,Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Germany (D.S., P.T., S.C.)
| | - Sebastian Clauss
- From the Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Campus Großhadern, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Germany (D.S., S.K., P.T., S.C.).,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance (MHA), Germany (D.S., S.K., P.T., S.C.).,Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Germany (D.S., P.T., S.C.)
| | - William J Hucker
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston (A.B., K.L., W.J.H.).,Cardiac Arrhythmia Service, Division of Cardiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston (A.B., W.J.H.)
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12
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Alzoughool F, Atoum M, Abuawad A, Abdelqader R, Alanagreh L, Hatmal M. Circulating irisin and adiponectin levels are positively associated with atrial fibrillation. GAZZETTA MEDICA ITALIANA ARCHIVIO PER LE SCIENZE MEDICHE 2020. [DOI: 10.23736/s0393-3660.18.03963-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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13
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Clauss S, Bleyer C, Schüttler D, Tomsits P, Renner S, Klymiuk N, Wakili R, Massberg S, Wolf E, Kääb S. Animal models of arrhythmia: classic electrophysiology to genetically modified large animals. Nat Rev Cardiol 2020; 16:457-475. [PMID: 30894679 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-019-0179-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Arrhythmias are common and contribute substantially to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The underlying pathophysiology of arrhythmias is complex and remains incompletely understood, which explains why mostly only symptomatic therapy is available. The evaluation of the complex interplay between various cell types in the heart, including cardiomyocytes from the conduction system and the working myocardium, fibroblasts and cardiac immune cells, remains a major challenge in arrhythmia research because it can be investigated only in vivo. Various animal species have been used, and several disease models have been developed to study arrhythmias. Although every species is useful and might be ideal to study a specific hypothesis, we suggest a practical trio of animal models for future use: mice for genetic investigations, mechanistic evaluations or early studies to identify potential drug targets; rabbits for studies on ion channel function, repolarization or re-entrant arrhythmias; and pigs for preclinical translational studies to validate previous findings. In this Review, we provide a comprehensive overview of different models and currently used species for arrhythmia research, discuss their advantages and disadvantages and provide guidance for researchers who are considering performing in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Clauss
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Campus Grosshadern, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany. .,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance (MHA), Munich, Germany.
| | - Christina Bleyer
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Campus Grosshadern, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance (MHA), Munich, Germany
| | - Dominik Schüttler
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Campus Grosshadern, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance (MHA), Munich, Germany
| | - Philipp Tomsits
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Campus Grosshadern, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance (MHA), Munich, Germany
| | - Simone Renner
- Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany.,DZD (German Centre for Diabetes Research), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Nikolai Klymiuk
- Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Reza Wakili
- Universitätsklinikum Essen, Westdeutsches Herz- und Gefäßzentrum Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Steffen Massberg
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Campus Grosshadern, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance (MHA), Munich, Germany
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance (MHA), Munich, Germany.,Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany.,DZD (German Centre for Diabetes Research), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Stefan Kääb
- Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Campus Grosshadern, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance (MHA), Munich, Germany
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14
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Rachwalik M, Obremska M, Zyśko D, Matusiewicz M, Ściborski K, Jasiński M. The concentration of resistin in perivascular adipose tissue after CABG and postoperative atrial fibrillation. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2019; 19:294. [PMID: 31842758 PMCID: PMC6915954 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-019-1254-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postoperative atrial fibrillation occurs in up to 30% of patients after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) and its cause is unknown. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether concentration of resistin in surrounding coronary artery perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is related to postoperative atrial fibrillation occurrence. METHODS A total number of 46 patients (35 male, 11 female; median age 66.5) were qualified for elective CABG. Medical history, laboratory test results and echocardiographic parameters were noted. Patients were monitored up to 3 days after CABG and then were divided into groups with and without postoperative atrial fibrillation occurrence. Fragments of PVAT were collected intra-operatively: near the left anterior descending artery and main left coronary artery. The concentration of resistin was determined by Human Resistin Quantikine ELISA Kit and expressed as ng/g. A multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis was performed to find variables related to postoperative atrial fibrillation occurrence. RESULTS Postoperative atrial fibrillation occurred in 14 (30.4%) patients. The patients with and without postoperative atrial fibrillation were similar in age, gender, epicardial adipose tissue thickness and laboratory parameters. The concentration of resistin in PVAT near the left main coronary artery was significantly higher in patients with postoperative atrial fibrillation than in those without the complication (P = 0.03). In the multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis the concentration of resistin above cut-off point 54 ng/g in PVAT near left main coronary artery was independently related to postoperative atrial fibrillation occurrence (OR: 7.7; 95% CI:1.4-42.2 p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS The higher concentrations of resistin in PVAT near the left main coronary artery which is located close to the left atrium are associated with postoperative atrial fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Rachwalik
- Department and Clinic of Cardiac Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, ul. Borowska 213, 50-556, Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Marta Obremska
- Department and Clinic of Cardiac Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, ul. Borowska 213, 50-556, Wrocław, Poland.,Department of Emergency Medical Service, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Zyśko
- Department and Clinic of Emergency Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Krzysztof Ściborski
- Department and Clinic of Cardiology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marek Jasiński
- Department and Clinic of Cardiac Surgery, Wroclaw Medical University, ul. Borowska 213, 50-556, Wrocław, Poland
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15
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Hohendanner F, Romero I, Blaschke F, Heinzel F, Pieske B, Boldt LH, Parwani A. Extent and magnitude of low-voltage areas assessed by ultra-high-density electroanatomical mapping correlate with left atrial function. Int J Cardiol 2018; 272:108-112. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2018.07.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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16
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Denham NC, Pearman CM, Caldwell JL, Madders GWP, Eisner DA, Trafford AW, Dibb KM. Calcium in the Pathophysiology of Atrial Fibrillation and Heart Failure. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1380. [PMID: 30337881 PMCID: PMC6180171 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is commonly associated with heart failure. A bidirectional relationship exists between the two-AF exacerbates heart failure causing a significant increase in heart failure symptoms, admissions to hospital and cardiovascular death, while pathological remodeling of the atria as a result of heart failure increases the risk of AF. A comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiology of AF is essential if we are to break this vicious circle. In this review, the latest evidence will be presented showing a fundamental role for calcium in both the induction and maintenance of AF. After outlining atrial electrophysiology and calcium handling, the role of calcium-dependent afterdepolarizations and atrial repolarization alternans in triggering AF will be considered. The atrial response to rapid stimulation will be discussed, including the short-term protection from calcium overload in the form of calcium signaling silencing and the eventual progression to diastolic calcium leak causing afterdepolarizations and the development of an electrical substrate that perpetuates AF. The role of calcium in the bidirectional relationship between heart failure and AF will then be covered. The effects of heart failure on atrial calcium handling that promote AF will be reviewed, including effects on both atrial myocytes and the pulmonary veins, before the aspects of AF which exacerbate heart failure are discussed. Finally, the limitations of human and animal studies will be explored allowing contextualization of what are sometimes discordant results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan C. Denham
- Unit of Cardiac Physiology, Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Katharine M. Dibb
- Unit of Cardiac Physiology, Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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17
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Ugarte JP, Tobón C, Lopes AM, Machado JAT. Atrial Rotor Dynamics Under Complex Fractional Order Diffusion. Front Physiol 2018; 9:975. [PMID: 30087620 PMCID: PMC6066719 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms of atrial fibrillation (AF) are a challenging research topic. The rotor hypothesis states that the AF is sustained by a reentrant wave that propagates around an unexcited core. Cardiac tissue heterogeneities, both structural and cellular, play an important role during fibrillatory dynamics, so that the ionic characteristics of the currents, their spatial distribution and their structural heterogeneity determine the meandering of the rotor. Several studies about rotor dynamics implement the standard diffusion equation. However, this mathematical scheme carries some limitations. It assumes the myocardium as a continuous medium, ignoring, therefore, its discrete and heterogeneous aspects. A computational model integrating both, electrical and structural properties could complement experimental and clinical results. A new mathematical model of the action potential propagation, based on complex fractional order derivatives is presented. The complex derivative order appears of considering the myocardium as discrete-scale invariant fractal. The main aim is to study the role of a myocardial, with fractal characteristics, on atrial fibrillatory dynamics. For this purpose, the degree of structural heterogeneity is described through derivatives of complex order γ = α + jβ. A set of variations for γ is tested. The real part α takes values ranging from 1.1 to 2 and the imaginary part β from 0 to 0.28. Under this scheme, the standard diffusion is recovered when α = 2 and β = 0. The effect of γ on the action potential propagation over an atrial strand is investigated. Rotors are generated in a 2D model of atrial tissue under electrical remodeling due to chronic AF. The results show that the degree of structural heterogeneity, given by γ, modulates the electrophysiological properties and the dynamics of rotor-type reentrant mechanisms. The spatial stability of the rotor and the area of its unexcited core are modulated. As the real part decreases and the imaginary part increases, simulating a higher structural heterogeneity, the vulnerable window to reentrant is increased, as the total meandering of the rotor tip. This in silico study suggests that structural heterogeneity, described by means of complex order derivatives, modulates the stability of rotors and that a wide range of rotor dynamics can be generated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan P. Ugarte
- Grupo de Investigación en Modelamiento y Simulación Computacional, Facultad de Ingenierías, Universidad de San Buenaventura, Medellín, Colombia
| | | | - António M. Lopes
- UISPA-LAETA/INEGI, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - J. A. Tenreiro Machado
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Institute of Engineering, Polytechnic of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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18
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Vanegas-Cadavid D, Valderrama-Barbosa Z, Ibatá-Bernal L. Experiencia clínica en monitorización cardiaca extendida con el sistema inalámbrico satelital tipo SEEQ. REVISTA COLOMBIANA DE CARDIOLOGÍA 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rccar.2017.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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19
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Clinical experience in extended cardiac monitoring with the SEEQ™ satellite wireless system. REVISTA COLOMBIANA DE CARDIOLOGÍA 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rccar.2017.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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20
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Hohendanner F, Messroghli D, Bode D, Blaschke F, Parwani A, Boldt L, Heinzel FR. Atrial remodelling in heart failure: recent developments and relevance for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. ESC Heart Fail 2018; 5:211-221. [PMID: 29457877 PMCID: PMC5880666 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.12260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Felix Hohendanner
- Department of CardiologyCharité University MedicineCampus Virchow‐Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 113353BerlinGermany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner SiteBerlinGermany
| | - Daniel Messroghli
- Department of CardiologyCharité University MedicineCampus Virchow‐Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 113353BerlinGermany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner SiteBerlinGermany
- Department of Internal Medicine—CardiologyDeutsches Herzzentrum BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - David Bode
- Department of CardiologyCharité University MedicineCampus Virchow‐Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 113353BerlinGermany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner SiteBerlinGermany
| | - Florian Blaschke
- Department of CardiologyCharité University MedicineCampus Virchow‐Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 113353BerlinGermany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner SiteBerlinGermany
| | - Abdul Parwani
- Department of CardiologyCharité University MedicineCampus Virchow‐Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 113353BerlinGermany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner SiteBerlinGermany
| | - Leif‐Hendrik Boldt
- Department of CardiologyCharité University MedicineCampus Virchow‐Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 113353BerlinGermany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner SiteBerlinGermany
| | - Frank R. Heinzel
- Department of CardiologyCharité University MedicineCampus Virchow‐Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 113353BerlinGermany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner SiteBerlinGermany
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21
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Takemoto Y, Ramirez RJ, Kaur K, Salvador-Montañés O, Ponce-Balbuena D, Ramos-Mondragón R, Ennis SR, Guerrero-Serna G, Berenfeld O, Jalife J. Eplerenone Reduces Atrial Fibrillation Burden Without Preventing Atrial Electrical Remodeling. J Am Coll Cardiol 2017; 70:2893-2905. [PMID: 29216985 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2017.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aldosterone inhibitor eplerenone (EPL) has been shown to reduce the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with systolic heart failure, but the mechanism is unknown. OBJECTIVES This study hypothesized that by reducing atrial dilation and fibrosis in the absence of heart failure, EPL also reduces AF burden and prevents AF perpetuation. METHODS The authors conducted a randomized controlled study in 34 sheep that were atrially tachypaced (13 ± 1 week). They compared daily oral EPL (n = 19) versus sugar pill (SP) treatment (n = 15) from the start of tachypacing. The endpoint was a continuous 7-day stretch of persistent AF (n = 29) or completion of 23 weeks tachypacing (n = 5). RESULTS EPL significantly reduced the rate of left atrial dilation increase during AF progression. Atria from EPL-treated sheep had less smooth muscle actin protein, collagen-III expression, interstitial atrial fibrosis, and cell hypertrophy than SP-treated sheep atria did. However, EPL did not modify the AF-induced increase in the rate of dominant frequency and ion channel densities seen under SP treatment, but rather prolonged the time to persistent AF in 26% of animals. It also reduced the degree of fibrillatory conduction, AF inducibility, and AF burden. CONCLUSIONS In the sheep model, EPL mitigates fibrosis and atrial dilation, modifies AF inducibility and AF complexity, and prolongs the transition to persistent AF in 26% of animals, but it does not prevent AF-induced electrical remodeling or AF persistence. The results highlight structural remodeling as a central upstream target to reduce AF burden, and the need to prevent electrical remodeling to avert AF perpetuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshio Takemoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Gifu Prefectural Tajimi Hospital, Tajimi, Japan; Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Arrhythmia Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Rafael J Ramirez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Arrhythmia Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Kuljeet Kaur
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Arrhythmia Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Oscar Salvador-Montañés
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Arrhythmia Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Daniela Ponce-Balbuena
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Arrhythmia Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Roberto Ramos-Mondragón
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Arrhythmia Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Steven R Ennis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Arrhythmia Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Guadalupe Guerrero-Serna
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Arrhythmia Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Omer Berenfeld
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Arrhythmia Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - José Jalife
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Arrhythmia Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III and CIBERCV, Madrid, Spain.
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22
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Diness JG, Skibsbye L, Simó-Vicens R, Santos JL, Lundegaard P, Citerni C, Sauter DRP, Bomholtz SH, Svendsen JH, Olesen SP, Sørensen US, Jespersen T, Grunnet M, Bentzen BH. Termination of Vernakalant-Resistant Atrial Fibrillation by Inhibition of Small-Conductance Ca 2+-Activated K + Channels in Pigs. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2017; 10:CIRCEP.117.005125. [PMID: 29018164 PMCID: PMC5647113 DOI: 10.1161/circep.117.005125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Background Evidence has emerged that small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (SK) channels constitute a new target for treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). SK channels are predominantly expressed in the atria as compared with the ventricles. Various marketed antiarrhythmic drugs are limited by ventricular adverse effects and efficacy loss as AF progresses. Methods and Results A total of 43 pigs were used for the studies. AF reversion in conscious long-term tachypaced pigs: Pigs were subjected to atrial tachypacing (7 Hz) until they developed sustained AF that could not be reverted by vernakalant 4 mg/kg (18.8±3.3 days of atrial tachypacing). When the SK channel inhibitor AP14145 was tested in these animals, vernakalant-resistant AF was reverted to sinus rhythm, and reinduction of AF by burst pacing (50 Hz) was prevented in 8 of 8 pigs. Effects on refractory period and AF duration in open chest pigs: The effects of AP14145 and vernakalant on the effective refractory periods and acute burst pacing-induced AF were examined in anaesthetized open chest pigs. Both vernakalant and AP14145 significantly prolonged atrial refractoriness and reduced AF duration without affecting the ventricular refractoriness or blood pressure in pigs subjected to 7 days atrial tachypacing, as well as in sham-operated control pigs. Conclusions SK currents play a role in porcine atrial repolarization, and pharmacological inhibition of these with AP14145 demonstrates antiarrhythmic effects in a vernakalant-resistant porcine model of AF. These results suggest SK channel blockers as potentially interesting anti-AF drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Goldin Diness
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.).
| | - Lasse Skibsbye
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
| | - Rafel Simó-Vicens
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
| | - Joana Larupa Santos
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
| | - Pia Lundegaard
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
| | - Carlotta Citerni
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
| | - Daniel Rafael Peter Sauter
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
| | - Sofia Hammami Bomholtz
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
| | - Jesper Hastrup Svendsen
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
| | - Søren-Peter Olesen
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
| | - Ulrik S Sørensen
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
| | - Thomas Jespersen
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
| | - Morten Grunnet
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
| | - Bo Hjorth Bentzen
- From the Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.G.D., R.S.-V., C.C., D.R.P.S., S.H.B., U.S.S., M.G., B.H.B.); Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark (L.S., J.L.S., P.L., D.R.P.S., S.-P.O., T.J., M.G., B.H.B.); and the Heart Centre, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark (J.H.S.)
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Thanigaimani S, McLennan E, Linz D, Mahajan R, Agbaedeng TA, Lee G, Kalman JM, Sanders P, Lau DH. Progression and reversibility of stretch induced atrial remodeling: Characterization and clinical implications. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 130:376-386. [PMID: 28734850 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2017.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia and across the developed nations, it contributes to increasing hospitalizations and healthcare burden. Several comorbidities and risk factors including hypertension, heart failure, obstructive sleep apnoea and obesity are known to play an important role in the initiation and perpetuation of AF and atrial stretch or dilatation may play a central mechanistic role. The impact of atrial stretch in the development of AF can vary dependent on the underlying disease. This review focuses on understanding the substrate for AF in conditions of acute and chronic stretch and in the presence of common co-morbidities or risk factors through the review of findings in both animal and human studies. Additionally, the reversibility of atrial remodeling following stretch release will also be discussed. Identification of clinical conditions associated with increased atrial stretch as well as the treatment or prevention of these conditions may help to prevent AF progression and improve sinus rhythm maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivshankar Thanigaimani
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Emma McLennan
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Dominik Linz
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Rajiv Mahajan
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Thomas A Agbaedeng
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Geoffrey Lee
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Melbourne Hospital and Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jonathan M Kalman
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Melbourne Hospital and Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Prashanthan Sanders
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Dennis H Lau
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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24
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Popovic N, Haemers P, Willems R, Claus P. Combined reconstruction of atrial morphology and paracardial fat depositions to study remodeling in atrial fibrillation. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2017; 2016:485-488. [PMID: 28268377 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2016.7590745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent sustained cardiac arrhythmia. AF is shown to be a progressive disease, which is strongly associated with important structural (morphological and histological), electrical and mechanical remodeling of the left atrium (LA). Adipose tissue accumulation has been shown to be a risk factor in AF. We set out to explore the connection between adipose tissue coverage of the LA surface, for both the complete LA and specific regions and the progression of AF. In this study we propose a methodology to study the regional coverage of the left-atrial wall with adipose tissue based on magnetic resonance data. Validation was performed in a sheep model. While the total amount of left-atrial adipose tissue was higher in the sheep with AF, no changes in regional coverage were observed.
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25
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Piña PG, Chicos AB. Early Cardioversion in Atrial Fibrillation: Earlier Is Better, but Not Always and (Maybe) Not Immediately. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2017; 19:3. [PMID: 28108860 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-017-0638-1] [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] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia in humans. One of its important features is the tendency to become more persistent over time, even in the absence of underlying progressive heart disease. Conversion and maintenance of sinus rhythm by pharmacological or electrical methods become increasingly difficult the longer the arrhythmia persists. Electrical, mechanical, structural, and autonomic remodeling processes have been implicated in the mechanisms of AF initiation, perpetuation, and progression. Prevention or reversal of these remodeling processes can halt the progression of the disease. Cardioversion is a powerful tool and rhythm control is a widely used strategy in the management of AF. However, important questions remain unanswered regarding not only if, but also when to perform cardioversion. There are observations from past trials and clinical situations that support attempting to restore sinus rhythm, but further prospective randomized clinical trials are needed. Optimal timing of cardioversion remains somewhat uncertain, but it appears to be some time after the first few hours and before the first few months: the earlier, the better, but not always, and maybe not immediately, and it has to be tailored to the clinical situation and its many variables. This review is intended to summarize the evidence supporting early intervention for the prevention of remodeling in patients with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paloma G Piña
- Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology, Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Alexandru B Chicos
- Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology, Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
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26
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27
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Thanigaimani S, Brooks AG, Kuklik P, Twomey DJ, Franklin S, Noschka E, Chapman D, Pathak RK, Mahajan R, Sanders P, Lau DH. Spatiotemporal characteristics of atrial fibrillation electrograms: A novel marker for arrhythmia stability and termination. J Arrhythm 2016; 33:40-48. [PMID: 28217228 PMCID: PMC5300869 DOI: 10.1016/j.joa.2016.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sequentially mapped complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAE) and dominant frequency (DF) sites have been targeted during catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF). However, these strategies have yielded variable success and have not been shown to correlate consistently with AF dynamics. Here, we evaluated whether the spatiotemporal stability of CFAE and DF may be a better marker of AF sustenance and termination. METHODS Eighteen sheep with 12 weeks of "one-kidney, one-clip" hypertension underwent open-chest studies. A total of 42 self-terminating (28-100 s) and 6 sustained (>15 min) AF episodes were mapped using a custom epicardial plaque and analyzed in 4-s epochs for CFAE, using the NavX CFE-m algorithm, and DF, using a Fast Fourier Transform. The spatiotemporal stability index (STSI) was calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficient of consecutive AF epochs. RESULTS A total of 67,733 AF epochs were analyzed. During AF initiation, mean CFE-m and the STSI of CFE-m/DF were similar between sustained and self-terminating episodes, although median DF was higher in sustained AF (p=0.001). During sustained AF, the STSI of CFE-m increased significantly (p=0.02), whereas mean CFE-m (p=0.5), median DF (p=0.07), and the STSI of DF remained unchanged (p=0.5). Prior to AF termination, the STSI of CFE-m was significantly lower (p<0.001), with a physiologically non-significant decrease in median DF (-0.3 Hz, p=0.006) and no significant changes in mean CFE-m (p=0.14) or the STSI of DF (p=0.06). CONCLUSIONS Spatiotemporal stabilization of CFAE favors AF sustenance and its destabilization heralds AF termination. The STSI of CFE-m is more representative of AF dynamics than are the STSI of DF, sequential mean CFE-m, or median DF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivshankar Thanigaimani
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Anthony G Brooks
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Pawel Kuklik
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Darragh J Twomey
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Samantha Franklin
- School of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Erik Noschka
- School of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Darius Chapman
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Rajeev K Pathak
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Rajiv Mahajan
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Prashanthan Sanders
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Dennis H Lau
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
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28
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Ko D, Rahman F, Schnabel RB, Yin X, Benjamin EJ, Christophersen IE. Atrial fibrillation in women: epidemiology, pathophysiology, presentation, and prognosis. Nat Rev Cardiol 2016; 13:321-32. [PMID: 27053455 DOI: 10.1038/nrcardio.2016.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia in women and men worldwide. During the past century, a range of risk factors has been associated with AF, severe complications from the arrhythmia have been identified, and its prevalence has been increasing steadily. Whereas evidence has accumulated regarding sex-specific differences in coronary heart disease and stroke, the differences between women and men with AF has received less attention. We review the current literature on sex-specific differences in the epidemiology of AF, including incidence, prevalence, risk factors, and genetics, and in the pathophysiology and the clinical presentation and prognosis of patients with this arrhythmia. We highlight current knowledge gaps and areas that warrant future research, which might advance understanding of variation in the risk factors and complications of AF, and ultimately aid more-tailored management of the arrhythmia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darae Ko
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Faisal Rahman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine
| | - Renate B Schnabel
- Department of General and Interventional Cardiology, University Heart Center Hamburg, Martinistrasse 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany.,DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Oudenarder Strasse 16, 13347 Berlin, Germany
| | - Xiaoyan Yin
- Boston University and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Framingham Heart Study, 73 Mount Wayte Avenue Framingham, Massachusetts 01702, USA.,Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health
| | - Emelia J Benjamin
- Boston University and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Framingham Heart Study, 73 Mount Wayte Avenue Framingham, Massachusetts 01702, USA.,Sections of Cardiovascular Medicine and Preventive Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 East Concord Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02118, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, 715 Albany Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02118, USA
| | - Ingrid E Christophersen
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, 149 13th Street, Charlestown, Massachusetts, 02129, USA.,Department of Medical Research, Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Sogneprest Munthe-kaas vei 100, 1346 Gjettum, Norway
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29
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He X, Zhang K, Gao X, Li L, Tan H, Chen J, Zhou Y. Rapid atrial pacing induces myocardial fibrosis by down-regulating Smad7 via microRNA-21 in rabbit. Heart Vessels 2016; 31:1696-708. [PMID: 26968995 PMCID: PMC5043001 DOI: 10.1007/s00380-016-0808-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Tachycardia-induced atrial fibrosis is a hallmark of the structural remodeling of atrial fibrillation (AF). The mechanisms underlying tachycardia-induced atrial fibrosis remain unclear. In our previous study, we found that Smad7-downregulation promoted the development of atrial fibrosis in AF. Fibroblasts are enriched in microRNA-21 (miR-21), which contributes to the development of fibrosis and heart failure in the cardiovascular system. Our study was designed to test the hypothesis that miR-21 reinforces the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway in AF-induced atrial fibrosis by down-regulating Smad7. Rapid atrial pacing (RAP, 1000 ppm) was applied to the left atrium of the rabbit heart to induce atrial fibrillation and fibrosis. qRT-PCR and northern blot analysis revealed that RAP caused a marked increase in the expression of miR-21. Transfection with a miR-21 inhibitor significantly increased the expression of Smad7, while the expression of collagen I/III significantly decreased. These changes were implicated in the AF-induced release of miR-21 and down-regulation of Smad7. Adult rat cardiac fibroblasts treated with TGF-β1 showed increased miR-21 expression and decreased Smad7 expression. Pretreatment with a TGF-β1 inhibitor reduced the TGF-β1-induced up-regulation of miR-21. Pretreatment with pre-miR-21 and a miR-21 inhibitor significantly decreased and increased Smad7 expression, respectively. This result was negatively correlated with the expression of collagen I/III in fibroblasts. Moreover, the results of a luciferase activity assay suggest that Smad7 is a validated miR-21 target in CFs. Our results provide compelling evidence that the miR-21 specific degradation of Smad7 may decrease the inhibitory feedback regulation of TGF-β1/Smad signaling and serves as a new insight of the mechanism of atrial fibrosis in atrial fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuyu He
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Disease, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, 106 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Kunyi Zhang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China.,State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Xiuren Gao
- Department of Cardiology, First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Liwen Li
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Disease, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, 106 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Hong Tan
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Disease, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, 106 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jiyan Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Disease, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, 106 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
| | - Yingling Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Coronary Disease, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, 106 Zhongshan Road 2, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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30
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Schwarzl M, Alogna A, Zweiker D, Verderber J, Huber S, Manninger M, Scherr D, Antoons G, Pieske BM, Post H, Lueger A. A porcine model of early atrial fibrillation using a custom-built, radio transmission-controlled pacemaker. J Electrocardiol 2016; 49:124-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2015.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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31
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Opacic D, van Bragt KA, Nasrallah HM, Schotten U, Verheule S. Atrial metabolism and tissue perfusion as determinants of electrical and structural remodelling in atrial fibrillation. Cardiovasc Res 2016; 109:527-41. [DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvw007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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Pellman J, Sheikh F. Atrial fibrillation: mechanisms, therapeutics, and future directions. Compr Physiol 2016; 5:649-65. [PMID: 25880508 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c140047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmia, affecting 1% to 2% of the general population. It is characterized by rapid and disorganized atrial activation leading to impaired atrial function, which can be diagnosed on an EKG by lack of a P-wave and irregular QRS complexes. AF is associated with increased morbidity and mortality and is a risk factor for embolic stroke and worsening heart failure. Current research on AF support and explore the hypothesis that initiation and maintenance of AF require pathophysiological remodeling of the atria, either specifically as in lone AF or secondary to other heart disease as in heart failure-associated AF. Remodeling in AF can be grouped into three categories that include: (i) electrical remodeling, which includes modulation of L-type Ca(2+) current, various K(+) currents and gap junction function; (ii) structural remodeling, which includes changes in tissues properties, size, and ultrastructure; and (iii) autonomic remodeling, including altered sympathovagal activity and hyperinnervation. Electrical, structural, and autonomic remodeling all contribute to creating an AF-prone substrate which is able to produce AF-associated electrical phenomena including a rapidly firing focus, complex multiple reentrant circuit or rotors. Although various remodeling events occur in AF, current AF therapies focus on ventricular rate and rhythm control strategies using pharmacotherapy and surgical interventions. Recent progress in the field has started to focus on the underlying substrate that drives and maintains AF (termed upstream therapies); however, much work is needed in this area. Here, we review current knowledge of AF mechanisms, therapies, and new areas of investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Pellman
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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33
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Vagal atrial fibrillation: What is it and should we treat it? Int J Cardiol 2015; 201:415-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2015.08.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Revised: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 08/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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34
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Haemers P, Hamdi H, Guedj K, Suffee N, Farahmand P, Popovic N, Claus P, LePrince P, Nicoletti A, Jalife J, Wolke C, Lendeckel U, Jaïs P, Willems R, Hatem SN. Atrial fibrillation is associated with the fibrotic remodelling of adipose tissue in the subepicardium of human and sheep atria. Eur Heart J 2015; 38:53-61. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehv625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2015] [Revised: 09/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Holmes JW, Laksman Z, Gepstein L. Making better scar: Emerging approaches for modifying mechanical and electrical properties following infarction and ablation. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2015; 120:134-48. [PMID: 26615948 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2015.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Revised: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Following myocardial infarction (MI), damaged myocytes are replaced by collagenous scar tissue, which serves an important mechanical function - maintaining integrity of the heart wall against enormous mechanical forces - but also disrupts electrical function as structural and electrical remodeling in the infarct and borderzone predispose to re-entry and ventricular tachycardia. Novel emerging regenerative approaches aim to replace this scar tissue with viable myocytes. Yet an alternative strategy of therapeutically modifying selected scar properties may also prove important, and in some cases may offer similar benefits with lower risk or regulatory complexity. Here, we review potential goals for such modifications as well as recent proof-of-concept studies employing specific modifications, including gene therapy to locally increase conduction velocity or prolong the refractory period in and around the infarct scar, and modification of scar anisotropy to improve regional mechanics and pump function. Another advantage of scar modification techniques is that they have applications well beyond MI. In particular, ablation treats electrical abnormalities of the heart by intentionally generating scar to block aberrant conduction pathways. Yet in diseases such as atrial fibrillation (AF) where ablation can be extensive, treating the electrical disorder can significantly impair mechanical function. Creating smaller, denser scars that more effectively block conduction, and choosing the location of those lesions by balancing their electrical and mechanical impacts, could significantly improve outcomes for AF patients. We review some recent advances in this area, including the use of computational models to predict the mechanical effects of specific lesion sets and gene therapy for functional ablation. Overall, emerging techniques for modifying scar properties represents a potentially important set of tools for improving patient outcomes across a range of heart diseases, whether used in place of or as an adjunct to regenerative approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey W Holmes
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Medicine, Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States.
| | - Zachary Laksman
- Cardiac Electrophysiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Lior Gepstein
- Departments of Cardiology (Ramban Health Care Campus) and Physiology, The Rappaport Faculty of Medicine and Research Institute, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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36
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Macquaide N, Tuan HTM, Hotta JI, Sempels W, Lenaerts I, Holemans P, Hofkens J, Jafri MS, Willems R, Sipido KR. Ryanodine receptor cluster fragmentation and redistribution in persistent atrial fibrillation enhance calcium release. Cardiovasc Res 2015; 108:387-98. [PMID: 26490742 PMCID: PMC4648199 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvv231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS In atrial fibrillation (AF), abnormalities in Ca(2+) release contribute to arrhythmia generation and contractile dysfunction. We explore whether ryanodine receptor (RyR) cluster ultrastructure is altered and is associated with functional abnormalities in AF. METHODS AND RESULTS Using high-resolution confocal microscopy (STED), we examined RyR cluster morphology in fixed atrial myocytes from sheep with persistent AF (N = 6) and control (Ctrl; N = 6) animals. RyR clusters on average contained 15 contiguous RyRs; this did not differ between AF and Ctrl. However, the distance between clusters was significantly reduced in AF (288 ± 12 vs. 376 ± 17 nm). When RyR clusters were grouped into Ca(2+) release units (CRUs), i.e. clusters separated by <150 nm, CRUs in AF had more clusters (3.43 ± 0.10 vs. 2.95 ± 0.02 in Ctrl), which were more dispersed. Furthermore, in AF cells, more RyR clusters were found between Z lines. In parallel experiments, Ca(2+) sparks were monitored in live permeabilized myocytes. In AF, myocytes had >50% higher spark frequency with increased spark time to peak (TTP) and duration, and a higher incidence of macrosparks. A computational model of the CRU was used to simulate the morphological alterations observed in AF cells. Increasing cluster fragmentation to the level observed in AF cells caused the observed changes, i.e. higher spark frequency, increased TTP and duration; RyR clusters dispersed between Z-lines increased the occurrence of macrosparks. CONCLUSION In persistent AF, ultrastructural reorganization of RyR clusters within CRUs is associated with overactive Ca(2+) release, increasing the likelihood of propagating Ca(2+) release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niall Macquaide
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Experimental Cardiology, KU Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N 7th Floor, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium Department of Molecular Neuroscience, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Jun-Ichi Hotta
- Laboratory of Photochemistry and Spectroscopy, Department of Chemistry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wouter Sempels
- Laboratory of Photochemistry and Spectroscopy, Department of Chemistry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ilse Lenaerts
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Experimental Cardiology, KU Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N 7th Floor, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Patricia Holemans
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Experimental Cardiology, KU Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N 7th Floor, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Hofkens
- Laboratory of Photochemistry and Spectroscopy, Department of Chemistry, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - M Saleet Jafri
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rik Willems
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Experimental Cardiology, KU Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N 7th Floor, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium Department of Molecular Neuroscience, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Karin R Sipido
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Experimental Cardiology, KU Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg O/N 7th Floor, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Lian H, Wang X, Wang J, Liu N, Zhang L, Lu Y, Yang Y, Zhang L. Heart-specific overexpression of (pro)renin receptor induces atrial fibrillation in mice. Int J Cardiol 2015; 184:28-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2015.01.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Revised: 12/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Choisy SC, Kim SJ, Hancox JC, Jones SA, James AF. Effects of candesartan, an angiotensin II receptor type I blocker, on atrial remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Physiol Rep 2015; 3:3/1/e12274. [PMID: 25626873 PMCID: PMC4387744 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.12274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertension‐induced structural remodeling of the left atrium (LA) has been suggested to involve the renin–angiotensin system. This study investigated whether treatment with an angiotensin receptor blocker, candesartan, regresses atrial remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Effects of treatment with candesartan were compared to treatment with a nonspecific vasodilatator, hydralazine. Thirty to 32‐week‐old adult male SHR were either untreated (n = 15) or received one of either candesartan cilexetil (n = 9; 3 mg/kg/day) or hydralazine (n = 10; 14 mg/kg/day) via their drinking water for 14 weeks prior to experiments. Untreated age‐ and sex‐matched Wistar‐Kyoto rats (WKY; n = 13) represented a normotensive control group. Untreated SHR were hypertensive, with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) compared to WKY, but there were no differences in systolic pressures in excised, perfused hearts. LA from SHR were hypertrophied and showed increased fibrosis compared to those from WKY, but there was no change in connexin‐43 expression or phosphorylation. Treatment with candesartan reduced systolic tail artery pressures of conscious SHR below those of normotensive WKY and caused regression of both LVH and LA hypertrophy. Although hydralazine reduced SHR arterial pressures to those of WKY and led to regression of LA hypertrophy, it had no significant effect on LVH. Notably, LA fibrosis was unaffected by treatment with either agent. These data show that candesartan, at a dose sufficient to reduce blood pressure and LVH, did not cause regression of LA fibrosis in hypertensive rats. On the other hand, the data also suggest that normalization of arterial pressure can lead to the regression of LA hypertrophy. Structural remodeling of the atria, involving atria enlargement and fibrosis, in hypertension increases the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). Treatment of spontaneously hypertensive rats with the angiotensin receptor blocker, candesartan, reduced arterial pressure and myocardial hypertrophy to the level of normotensive rats but had no effect on atrial fibrosis. The resistance of hypertension‐associated atrial fibrosis to the AT1 receptor antagonist may provide insight into the basis to the ineffectiveness of drugs targeting the renin–angiotensin system in reducing incidence of AF in hypertensive patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie C Choisy
- Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, School of Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Shang-Jin Kim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju-City, South Korea
| | - Jules C Hancox
- Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, School of Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
| | - Sandra A Jones
- School of Biological, Biomedical and Environmental Sciences, University of Hull, Hull, U.K
| | - Andrew F James
- Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, School of Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, U.K
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Huo Y, Holmqvist F, Carlson J, Gaspar T, Hindricks G, Piorkowski C, Bollmann A, Platonov PG. Variability of P-wave morphology predicts the outcome of circumferential pulmonary vein isolation in patients with recurrent atrial fibrillation. J Electrocardiol 2014; 48:218-25. [PMID: 25555742 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2014.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Severe atrial structural remodeling may reflect irreversible damage of the atrial tissue in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and is associated with changes of P-wave duration and morphology. Our aim was to study whether variability of P-wave morphology (PMV) is associated with outcome in patients with AF after circumferential PV isolation (CPVI). METHODS AND RESULTS 70 consecutive patients (aged 60±9years, 46 men) undergoing CPVI due to symptomatic AF were studied. After cessation of antiarrhythmic therapy, standard 12-lead ECG during sinus rhythm was recorded for 10min at baseline and transformed to orthogonal leads. Beat-to-beat P-wave morphology was subsequently defined using a pre-defined classification algorithm. The most commonly observed P-wave morphology in a patient was defined as the dominant morphology. PMV was defined as the percentage of P waves with non-dominant morphology in the 10-min sample. At the end of follow-up, 53 of 70 patients had no arrhythmia recurrence. PMV was greater in patients without recurrence (19.5±17.1% vs. 8.2±6.7%, p<0.001). In the multivariate logistic regression model, PMV≥20% (upper tertile) was the only independent predictor of ablation success (OR=11.4, 95% CI 1.4-92.1, p=0.023). A PMV≥20% demonstrated a sensitivity of 41.5%, a specificity of 94.1%, a PPV of 96.7%, and an NPV of 34.0% for free of AF after CPVI. CONCLUSIONS We report a significant association between increased PMV and 6-month CPVI success. PMV may help to identify patients with very high likelihood of freedom of AF 6-months after CPVI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Huo
- Department of Cardiology and Center for Integrative Electrocardiology at Lund University (CIEL), Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center-University Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Fredrik Holmqvist
- Department of Cardiology and Center for Integrative Electrocardiology at Lund University (CIEL), Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jonas Carlson
- Department of Cardiology and Center for Integrative Electrocardiology at Lund University (CIEL), Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Thomas Gaspar
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center-University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Gerhard Hindricks
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center-University Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Andreas Bollmann
- Department of Electrophysiology, Heart Center-University Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Pyotr G Platonov
- Department of Cardiology and Center for Integrative Electrocardiology at Lund University (CIEL), Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Sun J, Rong Z, Wugeti N, Azhati A, GUo Y, Liu H, Qian R, Zhao L, Ma Y. Experimental evaluation of myocardial fibrosis in a rapid atrial pacing model in New Zealand rabbits using quantitative analysis of ultrasonic backscatter. Med Sci Monit 2014; 20:1884-9. [PMID: 25296565 PMCID: PMC4206398 DOI: 10.12659/msm.891242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was the establishment of a rapid atrial pacing (RAP)-induced atrial fibrillation (AF) model with electrophotoluminescence and the application of ultrasonic backscatter quantitative analysis of the degree of myocardial fibrosis in New Zealand white rabbits. Material/Methods Sixteen New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into 2 groups: 1) a sham operation group (n=8) with implanted electrodes and no rapid pacing and 2) a pacing group (n=8) with an AF model induced by short-term rapid right atrial pacing for 12 h. Establishment of an AF model, atrial myocardium of myocardial fibrosis was tested by Masson staining and expression of collagen I and collagen III protein was detected with pathologic immunohistochemistry integrated back-scatter (IBS). Back scattering integral cycle variation (CVIB) were detected in atrial septal and posterior wall of the right atrium. Results Rapid atrial pacing successfully induced the atrial fibrillation model in rabbits. Masson staining showed myocardial fibrosis significantly increased in the pacing group. Expression of collagen I and collagen III protein was strongly positive in the pacing group, and expression of collagen I and collagen III protein were weakly positive in the sham operation group. Compared with the sham operation group, AII was increased (8.24±0.85 vs. 15.56±1.30, P<0.05) and (7.58±0.56 vs. 16.60±2.45, P<0.05). CVIB was significantly decreased (2.78±0.86 vs. 1.08±0.13, P<0.05) and (3.12±0.65 vs. 1.56±0.15, P<0.05) in septal and posterior wall of the right atrium of the pacing group. Conclusions Ultrasonic backscatter measurement technique can be used to evaluate degree of myocardial fibrosis in a right atrial pacing-induced atrial arrhythmia model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Sun
- Clinical Postdoctoral Research Station, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumuqi, China (mainland)
| | - Zhang Rong
- Function Center, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumuqi, China (mainland)
| | - Najina Wugeti
- Heart Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumuqi, China (mainland)
| | - Adila Azhati
- Heart Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumuqi, China (mainland)
| | - Yujun GUo
- Heart Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumuqi, China (mainland)
| | - Haili Liu
- Heart Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumuqi, China (mainland)
| | - Ruping Qian
- Heart Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumuqi, China (mainland)
| | - Long Zhao
- Heart Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumuqi, China (mainland)
| | - Yitong Ma
- Heart Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumuqi, China (mainland)
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Özcan KS, Güngör B, Altay S, Osmonov D, Ekmekçi A, Özpamuk F, Kemaloğlu T, Yıldırım A, Tayyareci G, Erdinler İ. Increased level of resistin predicts development of atrial fibrillation. J Cardiol 2014; 63:308-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jjcc.2013.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Revised: 10/10/2013] [Accepted: 10/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Nattel S, Guasch E, Savelieva I, Cosio FG, Valverde I, Halperin JL, Conroy JM, Al-Khatib SM, Hess PL, Kirchhof P, De Bono J, Lip GYH, Banerjee A, Ruskin J, Blendea D, Camm AJ. Early management of atrial fibrillation to prevent cardiovascular complications. Eur Heart J 2014; 35:1448-56. [PMID: 24536084 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehu028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Irina Savelieva
- Division of Clinical Sciences, Cardiovascular Science, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Francisco G Cosio
- Cardiología Department, Hospital Universitario de Getafe, Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Valverde
- Cardiología Department, Hospital Universitario de Getafe, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jonathan L Halperin
- Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer M Conroy
- Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sana M Al-Khatib
- Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Paul L Hess
- Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Paulus Kirchhof
- University of Birmingham Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham and Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Hospital of the University of Münster, Münster, Germany German Atrial Fibrillation Competence NETwork (AFNET), Münster, Germany
| | - Joseph De Bono
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- University of Birmingham Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, City Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Amitava Banerjee
- University of Birmingham Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, City Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jeremy Ruskin
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dan Blendea
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - A John Camm
- Division of Clinical Sciences, Cardiovascular Science, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
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MONIGATTI-TENKORANG JOANNA, JOUSSET FLORIAN, PASCALE PATRIZIO, VESIN JEANMARC, RUCHAT PATRICK, FROMER MARTIN, NARAYAN SANJIVM, PRUVOT ETIENNE. Intermittent Atrial Tachycardia Promotes Repolarization Alternans and Conduction Slowing During Rapid Rates, and Increases Susceptibility to Atrial Fibrillation in a Free-Behaving Sheep Model. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2014; 25:418-427. [DOI: 10.1111/jce.12353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2013] [Revised: 11/09/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - FLORIAN JOUSSET
- Applied Signal Processing Group; Swiss Federal Institute of Technology; Lausanne Switzerland
| | - PATRIZIO PASCALE
- Department of Cardiology; Lausanne University Hospital; Lausanne Switzerland
| | - JEAN-MARC VESIN
- Applied Signal Processing Group; Swiss Federal Institute of Technology; Lausanne Switzerland
| | - PATRICK RUCHAT
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery; Lausanne University Hospital; Lausanne Switzerland
| | - MARTIN FROMER
- Department of Cardiology; Lausanne University Hospital; Lausanne Switzerland
| | | | - ETIENNE PRUVOT
- Department of Cardiology; Lausanne University Hospital; Lausanne Switzerland
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Butters TD, Aslanidi OV, Zhao J, Smaill B, Zhang H. A novel computational sheep atria model for the study of atrial fibrillation. Interface Focus 2014; 3:20120067. [PMID: 24427521 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2012.0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2012] [Accepted: 12/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sheep are often used as animal models for experimental studies into the underlying mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmias. Previous studies have shown that biophysically detailed computer models of the heart provide a powerful alternative to experimental animal models for underpinning such mechanisms. In this study, we have developed a family of mathematical models for the electrical action potentials of various sheep atrial cell types. The developed cell models were then incorporated into a three-dimensional anatomical model of the sheep atria, which was recently reconstructed and segmented based on anatomical features within different regions. This created a novel biophysically detailed computational model of the three-dimensional sheep atria. Using the model, we then investigated the mechanisms by which paroxysmal rapid focal activity in the pulmonary veins can transit to sustained atrial fibrillation. It was found that the anisotropic property of the atria arising from the fibre structure plays an important role in facilitating the development of fibrillatory atrial excitation waves, and the electrical heterogeneity plays an important role in its initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy D Butters
- School of Physics and Astronomy , University of Manchester , Manchester , UK
| | - Oleg V Aslanidi
- School of Physics and Astronomy , University of Manchester , Manchester , UK ; Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering , King's College London , London , UK
| | - Jichao Zhao
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute , University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Bruce Smaill
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute , University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Henggui Zhang
- School of Physics and Astronomy , University of Manchester , Manchester , UK
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A combination of P wave electrocardiography and plasma brain natriuretic peptide level for predicting the progression to persistent atrial fibrillation: comparisons of sympathetic activity and left atrial size. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2013; 38:79-84. [DOI: 10.1007/s10840-013-9818-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Ghoraani B, Dalvi R, Gizurarson S, Das M, Ha A, Suszko A, Krishnan S, Chauhan VS. Localized rotational activation in the left atrium during human atrial fibrillation: relationship to complex fractionated atrial electrograms and low-voltage zones. Heart Rhythm 2013; 10:1830-8. [PMID: 24016695 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2013.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In humans, the existence of rotors or reentrant sources maintaining atrial fibrillation (AF) and the underlying electroanatomic substrate has not been well defined. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to determine the prevalence of localized rotational activation (RotA) in the left atrium (LA) during human AF and whether complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAEs) or low-voltage areas colocalize with RotA sites. METHODS We prospectively studied 32 patients (mean age 57 ± 8 years; 88% with persistent AF) undergoing AF catheter ablation. Bipolar electrograms were recorded for 2.5 seconds during AF using a roving 20-pole circular catheter in the LA. RotA was defined as sequential temporal activation of bipoles around the circular catheter. Bipolar electrogram fractionation index and bipolar voltage were used to define CFAEs and low-voltage areas, respectively. RESULTS In 21 (66%) patients, 47 RotA sites were identified. Few (9%) lasted 2.5 seconds (cycle length 183 ± 6 ms), while the majority (91%) were nonsustained (duration 610 ± 288 ms; cycle length 149 ± 11 ms). RotA was most common in the pulmonary vein antrum (71%) and posterior LA (25%). CFAEs were recorded from 18% ± 12% of LA area, and most (92% ± 7%) were not associated with RotA sites. However, 85% of RotA sites contained CFAEs. Very low voltage (<0.1 mV) areas comprised 12% ± 10% of LA area and were present in 23% of RotA sites. CONCLUSIONS In patients with predominantly persistent AF, localized RotA is commonly present but tends to be transient (<1 second). Although most CFAEs do not colocalize with RotA sites, the high prevalence of CFAEs and very low voltages within RotA sites may indicate slow conduction in diseased myocardium necessary for their maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Ghoraani
- Department of Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York
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47
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The Lambeth Conventions (II): Guidelines for the study of animal and human ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias. Pharmacol Ther 2013; 139:213-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 208] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2013] [Accepted: 04/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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48
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Lenaerts I, Driesen RB, Blanco NH, Holemans P, Heidbüchel H, Janssens S, Balligand JL, Sipido KR, Willems R. Role of nitric oxide and oxidative stress in a sheep model of persistent atrial fibrillation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 15:754-60. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/eut012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
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Naji F, Pagliaruzzi M, Penko M, Kanic V, Vokac D. Changes in left ventricular filling in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation. Int J Med Sci 2013; 10:1876-9. [PMID: 24324364 PMCID: PMC3856378 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.6613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Former studies showed possible interrelationship between altered ventricular filling patterns and atrial fibrillation (AF). HYPOTHESIS Long term persistent AF has a negative impact on left ventricular filling in patients with preserved ejection fraction of left ventricle. METHODS Our study was designed as a prospective case control study. We included 40 patients with persistent AF and preserved ejection fraction after successful electrical cardioversion and 43 control patients. Persistent AF was defined as AF lasting more than 4 weeks. Cardiac ultrasound was performed in all patients 24 hours after the procedure. Appropriate mitral flow and tissue Doppler velocities as well as standard echocardiographic measurements were obtained. RESULTS There were no significant differences between both groups' parameters regarding age, sex, commorbidities or drug therapy. Analysis of mitral flow velocities showed significant increase of E value in AF group (0.96±0.27 vs.0.70±0.14; p = 0.001). Tissue Doppler measurements didn't reveal any differences in early diastolic movement, however there was a statistically significant difference in E/Em values of both groups, respectively (12.0±4.0 vs. 9.0±2.1; p= 0.001). CONCLUSION Our study shows that in patients with preserved systolic function and persistent AF shortly after cardioversion diastolic ventricular filling patterns are altered mainly due to increased left atrial pressure and not due to impaired diastolic relaxation of left ventricle. Further studies are needed in order to define the interplay between diminished atrial function and impaired ventricular filling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franjo Naji
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre, Maribor, Slovenia
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Filgueiras-Rama D, Price NF, Martins RP, Yamazaki M, Avula UMR, Kaur K, Kalifa J, Ennis SR, Hwang E, Devabhaktuni V, Jalife J, Berenfeld O. Long-term frequency gradients during persistent atrial fibrillation in sheep are associated with stable sources in the left atrium. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2012; 5:1160-7. [PMID: 23051840 DOI: 10.1161/circep.111.969519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dominant frequencies (DFs) of activation are higher in the atria of patients with persistent than paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF), and left atrial (LA)-to-right atrial (RA) DF gradients have been identified in both. However, whether such gradients are maintained as long-term persistent AF is established remains unexplored. We aimed at determining in vivo the time course in atrial DF values from paroxysmal to persistent AF in sheep and testing the hypothesis that an LA-to-RA DF difference is associated with LA drivers in persistent AF. METHODS AND RESULTS AF was induced using RA tachypacing (n=8). Electrograms were obtained weekly from an RA lead and an implantable loop recorder implanted near the LA. DFs were determined for 5-second-long electrograms (QRST subtracted) during AF in vivo and in ex vivo optical mapping. Underlying structural changes were compared with weight-matched controls (n=4). After the first AF episode, DF increased gradually during a 2-week period (7±0.21 to 9.92±0.31 Hz; n=6; P<0.05). During 9 to 24 weeks of AF, the DF values on the implantable loop recorder were higher than the RA (10.6±0.08 versus 9.3±0.1 Hz, respectively; n=7; P<0.0001). Subsequent optical mapping confirmed a DF gradient from posterior LA-to-RA (9.1±1.0 to 6.9±0.9 Hz; P<0.05) and demonstrated patterns of activation compatible with drifting rotors in the posterior LA. Persistent AF sheep showed significant enlargement of the posterior LA compared with controls. CONCLUSIONS In the sheep, transition from paroxysmal to persistent AF shows continuous LA-to-RA DF gradients in vivo together with enlargement of the posterior LA, which harbors the highest frequency domains and patterns of activation compatible with drifting rotors.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Filgueiras-Rama
- Center for Arrhythmia Research, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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