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Kodirov SA, Herbinger T, Rohwedder A. Comparable properties of native K channels in the atrium and ventricle of snails. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 282:109938. [PMID: 38723703 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Mollusks, including snails, possess two chambered hearts. The heart and cardiomyocytes of snails have many similarities with those of mammals. Also, the biophysics and pharmacology of Ca, K, and Na ion channels resemble. Similar to mammals, in mollusks, the ventricular cardiomyocytes and K channels are often studied, which are selectively sensitive to antagonists such as 4-AP, E-4031, and TEA. Since the physiological properties of the ventricular cardiac cells of snails are well characterized, the enzymatically dissociated atrial cardiomyocytes of Cornu aspersum (Müller, 1774) were studied using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique for detailed comparisons with mice, Mus musculus. The incubation of tissues in a solution simultaneously containing two enzymes, collagenase and papain, enabled the isolation of single cells. Recordings in the atrial cardiomyocytes of snails revealed outward K+ currents closely resembling those of the ventricle. The latter was consistent, whether the voltage ramp or steps and long or short pulses were used. Interestingly, under identical conditions, the current waveforms of atrial cardiomyocytes in snails were similar to those of mice left ventricles, albeit the kinetics and the absence of inward rectifier K channel (IK1) activation. Therefore, the heart of mollusks could be used as a simple and accessible experimental model, particularly for pharmacology and toxicology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sodikdjon A Kodirov
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Cardiovascular Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Biophysics, Saint Petersburg University, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia; Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria.
| | - Tobias Herbinger
- Institut für Anatomie und Zellbiologie, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria
| | - Arndt Rohwedder
- Core Facility Imaging, ZMF, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria
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2
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Zhang ZH, Barajas-Martinez H, Jiang H, Huang CX, Antzelevitch C, Xia H, Hu D. Gene and stem cell therapy for inherited cardiac arrhythmias. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 256:108596. [PMID: 38301770 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Inherited cardiac arrhythmias are a group of genetic diseases predisposing to sudden cardiac arrest, mainly resulting from variants in genes encoding cardiac ion channels or proteins involved in their regulation. Currently available therapeutic options (pharmacotherapy, ablative therapy and device-based therapy) can not preclude the occurrence of arrhythmia events and/or provide complete protection. With growing understanding of the genetic background and molecular mechanisms of inherited cardiac arrhythmias, advancing insight of stem cell technology, and development of vectors and delivery strategies, gene therapy and stem cell therapy may be promising approaches for treatment of inherited cardiac arrhythmias. Recent years have witnessed impressive progress in the basic science aspects and there is a clear and urgent need to be translated into the clinical management of arrhythmic events. In this review, we present a succinct overview of gene and cell therapy strategies, and summarize the current status of gene and cell therapy. Finally, we discuss future directions for implementation of gene and cell therapy in the therapy of inherited cardiac arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-He Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, 430060, PR China
| | - Hector Barajas-Martinez
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, Lankenau Heart Institute, Wynnwood, PA, 19096, USA; Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, 430060, PR China
| | - Cong-Xin Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, 430060, PR China
| | - Charles Antzelevitch
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, Lankenau Heart Institute, Wynnwood, PA, 19096, USA; Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Hao Xia
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, 430060, PR China.
| | - Dan Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, 430060, PR China.
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3
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Kodirov SA. Adam, amigo, brain, and K channel. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:1393-1424. [PMID: 37975011 PMCID: PMC10643815 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-023-01163-5] [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: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-dependent K+ (Kv) channels are diverse, comprising the classical Shab - Kv2, Shaker - Kv1, Shal - Kv4, and Shaw - Kv3 families. The Shaker family alone consists of Kv1.1, Kv1.2, Kv1.3, Kv1.4, Kv1.5, Kv1.6, and Kv1.7. Moreover, the Shab family comprises two functional (Kv2.1 and Kv2.2) and several "silent" alpha subunits (Kv2.3, Kv5, Kv6, Kv8, and Kv9), which do not generate K current. However, e.g., Kv8.1, via heteromerization, inhibits outward currents of the same family or even that of Shaw. This property of Kv8.1 is similar to those of designated beta subunits or non-selective auxiliary elements, including ADAM or AMIGO proteins. Kv channels and, in turn, ADAM may modulate the synaptic long-term potentiation (LTP). Prevailingly, Kv1.1 and Kv1.5 are attributed to respective brain and heart pathologies, some of which may occur simultaneously. The aforementioned channel proteins are apparently involved in several brain pathologies, including schizophrenia and seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sodikdjon A. Kodirov
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at Brownsville, Brownsville, TX 78520 USA
- Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg, Russia
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
- Almazov Federal Heart, Blood and Endocrinology Centre, Saint Petersburg, 197341 Russia
- Institute for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria
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4
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Kodirov SA. Whole-cell patch-clamp recording and parameters. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:257-288. [PMID: 37124922 PMCID: PMC10133435 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-023-01055-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The patch-clamp technique represents an electrophysiology type of method. This is one of several insightful approaches with five major configurations, namely a loose patch, cell-attached (also known as on-cell), whole-cell, inside-out, and outside-out modes. The patch-clamp method is more advanced compared to classical electrophysiology since it elucidates single-channel activation in a tiny portion of the membrane in addition to action potential (AP), junction potential (JP), endplate potential (EP), electrical coupling between two adjacent cells via Gap junction hemi-channels, excitatory/inhibitory postsynaptic potentials, and resting membrane potential (RMP). In fact, a malfunction of only one channel or even one component will alter AP amplitude or duration in vitro. If parameters are inferred appropriately and recordings are performed properly, the patch-clamp trace readouts and results are robust. The main hallmarks of currents via voltage-dependent calcium (Cav), hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide gated non-selective cation (HCN), inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir), voltage-dependent potassium (Kv), and voltage-dependent sodium (Nav) channels are similar and tractable among cells even when they are derived from evolutionary distinct organs and species. However, the size of the membrane area, where the functional subunits reside, and current magnitudes vary among cells of the same type. Therefore, dividing current magnitudes by cell capacitance- current density enables the estimate of functional and active channels relative to recorded cytoplasmic membrane area. Since the patch-clamp recordings can be performed in both current- and voltage-clamp modes, the action potential or spike durations can be adequately elucidated. Sometimes, optical methods are preferred to patch-clamp electrophysiology, but the obtained signals and traces are not robust. Finally, not only an alternans of AP durations, but also that of 'action potential shape' is observed with electrophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sodikdjon A. Kodirov
- Cardiovascular Division, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Almazov Federal Medical Research Centre, Saint Petersburg, 197341 Russia
- Institute for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria
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Kawajiri K, Ihara K, Sasano T. Gene therapy to terminate tachyarrhythmias. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2022; 20:431-442. [PMID: 35655364 DOI: 10.1080/14779072.2022.2085686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To date, the treatment option for tachyarrhythmia is classified into drug therapy, catheter ablation, and implantable device therapy. However, the efficacy of the antiarrhythmic drugs is limited. Although the indication of catheter ablation is expanding, several fatal tachyarrhythmias are still refractory to ablation. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator increases survival, but it is not a curable treatment. Therefore, a novel therapy for tachyarrhythmias refractory to present treatments is desired. Gene therapy is being developed as a promising candidate for this purpose, and basic research and translational research have been accumulated in recent years. AREAS COVERED This paper reviews the current state of gene therapy for arrhythmias, including susceptible arrhythmias, the route of administration to the heart, and the type of vector to use. We also discuss the latest progress in the technology of gene delivery and genome editing. EXPERT OPINION Gene therapy is one of the most promising technologies for arrhythmia treatment. However, additional technological innovation to achieve safe, localized, homogeneous, and long-lasting gene transfer is required for its clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei Kawajiri
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo 113-8519, Japan
| | - Kensuke Ihara
- Department of Bio-informational Pharmacology, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Sasano
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo 113-8519, Japan
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Kodirov SA, Brachmann J, Safonova TA, Zhuravlev VL. Inactivation of Native K Channels. J Membr Biol 2021; 255:13-31. [PMID: 34383081 DOI: 10.1007/s00232-021-00195-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
We have experimented with isolated cardiomyocytes of mollusks Helix. During the whole-cell patch-clamp recordings of K+ currents a considerable decrease in amplitude was observed upon repeated voltage steps at 0.96 Hz. For these experiments, ventricular cells were depolarized to identical + 20 mV from a holding potential of - 50 mV. The observed spontaneous inhibition of outward currents persisted in the presence of 4-aminopyridine, tetraethylammonium chloride or E-4031, the selective class III antiarrhythmic agent that blocks HERG channels. Similar tendency was retained when components of currents sensitive to either 4-AP or TEA were mathematically subtracted. Waveforms of currents sensitive to 1 and 10 micromolar concentration of E-4031 were distinct comprising prevailingly those activated during up to 200 ms pulses. The outward current activated by a voltage ramp at 60 mV x s-1 rate revealed an inward rectification around + 20 mV. This feature closely resembles those of the mammalian cardiac delayed rectifier IKr.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sodikdjon A Kodirov
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany. .,Department of General Physiology, Saint Petersburg University, 199034, Saint Petersburg, Russia. .,Cardiovascular Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA. .,Department of Biophysics, Saint Petersburg University, 199034, Saint Petersburg, Russia. .,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Johannes Brachmann
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tatiana A Safonova
- Department of General Physiology, Saint Petersburg University, 199034, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Vladimir L Zhuravlev
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of General Physiology, Saint Petersburg University, 199034, Saint Petersburg, Russia
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7
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Hornyik T, Rieder M, Castiglione A, Major P, Baczko I, Brunner M, Koren G, Odening KE. Transgenic rabbit models for cardiac disease research. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:938-957. [PMID: 33822374 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
To study the pathophysiology of human cardiac diseases and to develop novel treatment strategies, complex interactions of cardiac cells on cellular, tissue and on level of the whole heart need to be considered. As in vitro cell-based models do not depict the complexity of the human heart, animal models are used to obtain insights that can be translated to human diseases. Mice are the most commonly used animals in cardiac research. However, differences in electrophysiological and mechanical cardiac function and a different composition of electrical and contractile proteins limit the transferability of the knowledge gained. Moreover, the small heart size and fast heart rate are major disadvantages. In contrast to rodents, electrophysiological, mechanical and structural cardiac characteristics of rabbits resemble the human heart more closely, making them particularly suitable as an animal model for cardiac disease research. In this review, various methodological approaches for the generation of transgenic rabbits for cardiac disease research, such as pronuclear microinjection, the sleeping beauty transposon system and novel genome-editing methods (ZFN and CRISPR/Cas9)will be discussed. In the second section, we will introduce the different currently available transgenic rabbit models for monogenic cardiac diseases (such as long QT syndrome, short-QT syndrome and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) in detail, especially in regard to their utility to increase the understanding of pathophysiological disease mechanisms and novel treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tibor Hornyik
- Translational Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and Institute of Physiology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marina Rieder
- Translational Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and Institute of Physiology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Alessandro Castiglione
- Translational Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and Institute of Physiology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Peter Major
- Institute for Genetics and Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Istvan Baczko
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Michael Brunner
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Medical Intensive Care, St. Josefskrankenhaus, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gideon Koren
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Division of Cardiology, Rhode Island Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Katja E Odening
- Translational Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and Institute of Physiology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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8
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Trivedi A, Hoffman J, Arora R. Gene therapy for atrial fibrillation - How close to clinical implementation? Int J Cardiol 2019; 296:177-183. [PMID: 31439427 PMCID: PMC6907402 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2019.07.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In this review we examine the current state of gene therapy for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. We describe advances and challenges in successfully creating and incorporating gene vectors into the myocardium. After summarizing the current scientific research in gene transfer technology we then focus on the most promising areas of gene therapy, the treatment of atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachyarrhythmias. We review the scientific literature to determine how gene therapy could potentially be used to treat patients with cardiac arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amar Trivedi
- Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University - Feinberg School of Medicine, United States of America
| | - Jacob Hoffman
- Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University - Feinberg School of Medicine, United States of America
| | - Rishi Arora
- Feinberg Cardiovascular and Renal Research Institute, Northwestern University - Feinberg School of Medicine, United States of America.
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Kodirov SA, Zhuravlev VL, Brachmann J. Prevailing Effects of Ibutilide on Fast Delayed Rectifier K + Channel. J Membr Biol 2019; 252:609-616. [PMID: 31584122 DOI: 10.1007/s00232-019-00098-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Effects of ibutilide, a class III antiarrhythmic drug, on delayed rectifier potassium currents (IK) in freshly isolated guinea pig ventricular myocytes were studied. Experiments were performed using the whole-cell configuration of patch-clamp technique under blockade of L-type calcium currents (Cav1). Ibutilide at concentrations ranging between 10 nM and 100 µM inhibited IKr in dose-dependent manner with a half maximal effective concentration of 2.03 ± 0.74 µM (n = 5-10). The amplitude of tail currents activated by prepulse to + 20 mV was decreased from 253 ± 52 to 130 ± 25 pA (n = 8, p < 0.01) in the presence of 1 µM ibutilide. The envelope test revealed time-dependent changes in ratio of IK-tail/ΔIK during 0.2-2 s pulse durations in the absence of drug. With ibutilide, regardless of pulse duration, a relatively constant ratio was estimated, indicative of predominant involvement of IKr component. The slow IKs persisted to greater extent even at 100 μM ibutilide revealing a distinguishable selectivity toward the IKr component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sodikdjon A Kodirov
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany. .,Department of Physiology, Saint Petersburg University, Saint Petersburg, Russia, 199034. .,Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Pasteura St., 02-093, Warsaw, Poland. .,Department of Cardiology, Klinikum Coburg, Teaching Hospital of the University of Würzburg, Coburg, Germany.
| | - Vladimir L Zhuravlev
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Physiology, Saint Petersburg University, Saint Petersburg, Russia, 199034
| | - Johannes Brachmann
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology, Klinikum Coburg, Teaching Hospital of the University of Würzburg, Coburg, Germany
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10
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Kodirov SA. Tale of tail current. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 150:78-97. [PMID: 31238048 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The largest biomass of channel proteins is located in unicellular organisms and bacteria that have no organs. However, orchestrated bidirectional ionic currents across the cell membrane via the channels are important for the functioning of organs of organisms, and equally concern both fauna or flora. Several ion channels are activated in the course of action potentials. One of the hallmarks of voltage-dependent channels is a 'tail current' - deactivation as observed after prior and sufficient activation predominantly at more depolarized potentials e.g. for Kv while upon hyperpolarization for HCN α subunits. Tail current also reflects the timing of channel closure that is initiated upon termination of stimuli. Finally, deactivation of currents during repolarization could be a selective estimate for given channel as in case of HERG, if dedicated long and more depolarized 'tail pulse' is used. Since from a holding potential of e.g. -70 mV are often a family of outward K+ currents comprising IA and IK are simultaneously activated in native cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sodikdjon A Kodirov
- Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg, Russia; Cardiovascular Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA; Almazov Federal Heart, Blood and Endocrinology Centre, Saint Petersburg, 197341, Russia; Institute of Experimental Medicine, I. P. Pavlov Department of Physiology, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Saint Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Emotions' Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland.
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11
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Trivedi A, Arora R. Gene Therapy for the Treatment of Cardiac Arrhythmias: Current and Emerging Applications. J Innov Card Rhythm Manag 2018; 9:3440-3445. [PMID: 32477792 PMCID: PMC7252777 DOI: 10.19102/icrm.2018.091204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review, we examine the current state of gene therapy for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. We describe advances and challenges in successfully creating and incorporating gene vectors into the myocardium. After summarizing the current scientific research in gene transfer technology, we then focus on the most promising areas of gene therapy at this time, which is the treatment of atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachyarrhythmias. We also review the scientific literature to determine how gene therapy could potentially be used to treat patients with cardiac arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amar Trivedi
- Department of Cardiology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rishi Arora
- Department of Cardiology, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
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12
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Kodirov SA, Psyrakis D, Brachmann J, Zhuravlev VL. Limulus and heart rhythm. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2018; 331:61-79. [PMID: 30251467 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Great interest in the comparative physiology of hearts and their functions in Animalia has emerged with classic papers on Limulus polyphemus and mollusks. The recurrent cardiac activity-heart rate-is the most important physiological parameter and when present the kardia (Greek) is vital to the development of entire organs of the organisms in the animal kingdom. Extensive studies devoted to the regulation of cardiac rhythm in invertebrates have revealed that the basics of heart physiology are comparable to mammals. The hearts of invertebrates also beat spontaneously and are supplied with regulatory nerves: either excitatory or inhibitory or both. The distinct nerves and the source of excitation/inhibition at the level of single neurons are described for many invertebrate genera. The vertebrates and a majority of invertebrates have myogenic hearts, whereas the horseshoe crab L. polyphemus and a few other animals have a neurogenic cardiac rhythm. Nevertheless, the myogenic nature of heartbeat is precursor, because the contraction of native and stem-cell-derived cardiomyocytes does occur in the absence of any neural elements. Even in L. polyphemus, the heart rhythm is myogenic at embryonic stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sodikdjon A Kodirov
- Department of General Physiology, Saint Petersburg University, Saint Petersburg, Russia.,Department of Neurobiology, Neuroscience Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia.,Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Almazov Federal Heart, Blood and Endocrinology Centre, Saint Petersburg, Russia.,Laboratory of Emotions' Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Cardiology, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dimitrios Psyrakis
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center Freiburg University, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Brachmann
- Department of Cardiology, Klinikum Coburg, Teaching Hospital of the University of Würzburg, Coburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Vladimir L Zhuravlev
- Department of General Physiology, Saint Petersburg University, Saint Petersburg, Russia.,Department of Cardiology, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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13
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Bera A, Sen D. Promise of adeno-associated virus as a gene therapy vector for cardiovascular diseases. Heart Fail Rev 2017; 22:795-823. [DOI: 10.1007/s10741-017-9622-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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14
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Driessen HE, van Veen TAB, Boink GJJ. Emerging molecular therapies targeting myocardial infarction-related arrhythmias. Europace 2017; 19:518-528. [PMID: 28431070 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euw198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac disease is the leading cause of death in the developed world. Ventricular arrhythmias associated with myocardial ischaemia and/or infarction are a major contributor to cardiovascular mortality, and require improved prevention and treatment. Drugs, devices, and radiofrequency catheter ablation have made important inroads, but have significant limitations ranging from incomplete success to undesired toxicities and major side effects. These limitations derive from the nature of the intervention. Drugs are frequently ineffective, target the entire heart, and often do not deal with the specific arrhythmia trigger or substrate. Devices can terminate rapid rhythms but at best indirectly affect the underlying disease, while ablation, even when appropriately targeted, induces additional tissue damage. In contrast, exploration of gene and cell therapies are expected to provide a targeted, non-destructive, and potentially regenerative approach to ischaemia- and infarction-related arrhythmias. Although these approaches are in the early stages of development, they carry substantial potential to advance arrhythmia prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen E Driessen
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Medical Physiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Toon A B van Veen
- Division of Heart and Lungs, Department of Medical Physiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard J J Boink
- Heart Center, Department of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Netherlands Heart Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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15
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Lang CN, Koren G, Odening KE. Transgenic rabbit models to investigate the cardiac ion channel disease long QT syndrome. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 121:142-56. [PMID: 27210307 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a rare inherited channelopathy caused mainly by different mutations in genes encoding for cardiac K(+) or Na(+) channels, but can also be caused by commonly used ion-channel-blocking and QT-prolonging drugs, thus affecting a much larger population. To develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to improve the clinical management of these patients, a thorough understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of arrhythmogenesis and potential pharmacological targets is needed. Drug-induced and genetic animal models of various species have been generated and have been instrumental for identifying pro-arrhythmic triggers and important characteristics of the arrhythmogenic substrate in LQTS. However, due to species differences in features of cardiac electrical function, these different models do not entirely recapitulate all aspects of the human disease. In this review, we summarize advantages and shortcomings of different drug-induced and genetically mediated LQTS animal models - focusing on mouse and rabbit models since these represent the most commonly used small animal models for LQTS that can be subjected to genetic manipulation. In particular, we highlight the different aspects of arrhythmogenic mechanisms, pro-arrhythmic triggering factors, anti-arrhythmic agents, and electro-mechanical dysfunction investigated in transgenic LQTS rabbit models and their translational application for the clinical management of LQTS patients in detail. Transgenic LQTS rabbits have been instrumental to increase our understanding of the role of spatial and temporal dispersion of repolarization to provide an arrhythmogenic substrate, genotype-differences in the mechanisms for early afterdepolarization formation and arrhythmia maintenance, mechanisms of hormonal modification of arrhythmogenesis and regional heterogeneities in electro-mechanical dysfunction in LQTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- C N Lang
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center Freiburg, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - G Koren
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Division of Cardiology, Rhode Island Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - K E Odening
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, University Heart Center Freiburg, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany.
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16
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Abstract
Gene therapy to treat electrical dysfunction of the heart is an appealing strategy because of the limited therapeutic options available to manage the most-severe cardiac arrhythmias, such as ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and asystole. However, cardiac genetic manipulation is challenging, given the complex mechanisms underlying arrhythmias. Nevertheless, the growing understanding of the molecular basis of these diseases, and the development of sophisticated vectors and delivery strategies, are providing researchers with adequate means to target specific genes and pathways involved in disorders of heart rhythm. Data from preclinical studies have demonstrated that gene therapy can be successfully used to modify the arrhythmogenic substrate and prevent life-threatening arrhythmias. Therefore, gene therapy might plausibly become a treatment option for patients with difficult-to-manage acquired arrhythmias and for those with inherited arrhythmias. In this Review, we summarize the preclinical studies into gene therapy for acquired and inherited arrhythmias of the atria or ventricles. We also provide an overview of the technical advances in the design of constructs and viral vectors to increase the efficiency and safety of gene therapy and to improve selective delivery to target organs.
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17
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Zacchigna S, Zentilin L, Giacca M. Adeno-associated virus vectors as therapeutic and investigational tools in the cardiovascular system. Circ Res 2014; 114:1827-46. [PMID: 24855205 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.114.302331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The use of vectors based on the small parvovirus adeno-associated virus has gained significant momentum during the past decade. Their high efficiency of transduction of postmitotic tissues in vivo, such as heart, brain, and retina, renders these vectors extremely attractive for several gene therapy applications affecting these organs. Besides functional correction of different monogenic diseases, the possibility to drive efficient and persistent transgene expression in the heart offers the possibility to develop innovative therapies for prevalent conditions, such as ischemic cardiomyopathy and heart failure. Therapeutic genes are not only restricted to protein-coding complementary DNAs but also include short hairpin RNAs and microRNA genes, thus broadening the spectrum of possible applications. In addition, several spontaneous or engineered variants in the virus capsid have recently improved vector efficiency and expanded their tropism. Apart from their therapeutic potential, adeno-associated virus vectors also represent outstanding investigational tools to explore the function of individual genes or gene combinations in vivo, thus providing information that is conceptually similar to that obtained from genetically modified animals. Finally, their single-stranded DNA genome can drive homology-directed gene repair at high efficiency. Here, we review the main molecular characteristics of adeno-associated virus vectors, with a particular view to their applications in the cardiovascular field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Zacchigna
- From the Molecular Medicine Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy (S.Z., L.Z., M.G.); and Department of Medical, Surgical, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy (S.Z., M.G.)
| | - Lorena Zentilin
- From the Molecular Medicine Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy (S.Z., L.Z., M.G.); and Department of Medical, Surgical, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy (S.Z., M.G.)
| | - Mauro Giacca
- From the Molecular Medicine Laboratory, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy (S.Z., L.Z., M.G.); and Department of Medical, Surgical, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy (S.Z., M.G.).
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18
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Kodirov SA, Wehrmeister M, Colom LV. Modulation of HCN channels in lateral septum by nicotine. Neuropharmacology 2014; 81:274-82. [PMID: 24582613 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2014.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Revised: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/15/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The effects of addictive drugs most commonly occur via interactions with target receptors. The same is true of nicotine and its multiple receptors in a variety of cell types. However, there are also side effects for given substances that can dramatically change cellular, tissue, organ, and organism functions. In this study, we present evidence that nicotine possesses such properties, and modulates neuronal excitability. We recorded whole-cell voltages and currents in neurons situated in the dorsal portion of the lateral septum in acute coronal brain slices of adult rats. Our experiments in the lateral septum revealed that nicotine directly affects HCN - hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide gated non-selective cation channels. We demonstrate that nicotine effects persist despite the concurrent application of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors' antagonists - mecamylamine, methyllycaconitine, and dihydro-β-erythroidine. These results are novel in regard to HCN channels in the septum, in general, and in their sensitivity to nicotine, in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sodikdjon A Kodirov
- Center for Biomedical Studies, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at Brownsville, TX 78520, USA; Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52252, USA.
| | - Michael Wehrmeister
- Center for Biomedical Studies, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at Brownsville, TX 78520, USA; Johannes Gutenberg University, 55099 Mainz, Germany
| | - Luis V Colom
- Center for Biomedical Studies, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at Brownsville, TX 78520, USA
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19
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Abstract
Cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in the United States and other developed countries. Ventricular tachyarrhythmias are the most prominent cause of cardiac arrest, and patients with structural heart disease are at increased risk for these abnormal heart rhythms. Drug and device therapies have important limitations that make them inadequate to meet this challenge. We and others have proposed development of arrhythmia gene therapy as an alternative to current treatment methods. In this review, I discuss the basic mechanisms of ventricular arrhythmias and summarize the literature on the use of gene therapy for ventricular tachyarrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- J K Donahue
- Heart and Vascular Research Center, MetroHealth Campus, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA.
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20
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Kodirov SA. The neuronal control of cardiac functions in Molluscs. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2011; 160:102-16. [PMID: 21736949 PMCID: PMC5480900 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2011.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2010] [Revised: 05/12/2011] [Accepted: 06/17/2011] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
In this manuscript, I review the current and relevant classical studies on properties of the Mollusca heart and their central nervous system including ganglia, neurons, and nerves involved in cardiomodulation. Similar to mammalian brain hemispheres, these invertebrates possess symmetrical pairs of ganglia albeit visceral (only one) ganglion and the parietal ganglia (the right ganglion is bigger than the left one). Furthermore, there are two major regulatory drives into the compartments (pericard, auricle, and ventricle) and cardiomyocytes of the heart. These are the excitatory and inhibitory signals that originate from a few designated neurons and their putative neurotransmitters. Many of these neurons are well-identified, their specific locations within the corresponding ganglion are mapped, and some are termed as either heart excitatory (HE) or inhibitory (HI) cells. The remaining neurons are classified as cardio-regulatory, and their direct and indirect actions on the heart's function have been documented. The cardiovascular anatomy of frequently used experimental animals, Achatina, Aplysia, Helix, and Lymnaea is relatively simple. However, as in humans, it possesses all major components including even trabeculae and atrio-ventricular valves. Since the myocardial cells are enzymatically dispersible, multiple voltage dependent cationic currents in isolated cardiomyocytes are described. The latter include at least the A-type K(+), delayed rectifier K(+), TTX-sensitive Na(+), and L-type Ca(2+) channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sodikdjon A Kodirov
- Department of Biophysics, Saint Petersburg University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia.
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21
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AAV vectors for cardiac gene transfer: experimental tools and clinical opportunities. Mol Ther 2011; 19:1582-90. [PMID: 21792180 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2011.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the first demonstration of in vivo gene transfer into myocardium there have been a series of advancements that have driven the evolution of cardiac gene delivery from an experimental tool into a therapy currently at the threshold of becoming a viable clinical option. Innovative methods have been established to address practical challenges related to tissue-type specificity, choice of delivery vehicle, potency of the delivered material, and delivery route. Most importantly for therapeutic purposes, these strategies are being thoroughly tested to ensure safety of the delivery system and the delivered genetic material. This review focuses on the development of recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) as one of the most valuable cardiac gene transfer agents available today. Various forms of rAAV have been used to deliver "pre-event" cardiac protection and to temper the severity of hypertrophy, cardiac ischemia, or infarct size. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have also been functional delivery tools for cardiac gene expression knockdown studies and successfully improving the cardiac aspects of several metabolic and neuromuscular diseases. Viral capsid manipulations along with the development of tissue-specific and regulated promoters have greatly increased the utility of rAAV-mediated gene transfer. Important clinical studies are currently underway to evaluate AAV-based cardiac gene delivery in humans.
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22
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Boink GJJ, Rosen MR. Regenerative therapies in electrophysiology and pacing: introducing the next steps. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2010; 31:3-16. [PMID: 21161675 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-010-9529-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2010] [Accepted: 11/04/2010] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The morbidity and mortality of cardiac arrhythmias are major international health concerns. Drug and device therapies have made inroads but alternative approaches are still being sought. For example, gene and cell therapies have been explored for treatment of brady- and tachyarrhythmias, and proof of concept has been obtained for both biological pacing in the setting of heart block and gene therapy for ventricular tachycardias. This paper reviews the state of the art developments with regard to gene and cell therapies for cardiac arrhythmias and discusses next steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard J J Boink
- Heart Failure Research Center, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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23
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Greener I, Donahue JK. Gene therapy strategies for cardiac electrical dysfunction. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2010; 50:759-65. [PMID: 20696170 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2010.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2010] [Revised: 07/29/2010] [Accepted: 07/30/2010] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac disease is frequently associated with abnormalities in electrical function that can severely impair cardiac performance with potentially fatal consequences. The available therapeutic options have some efficacy but are far from perfect. The curative potential of gene therapy makes it an attractive approach for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. To date, gene therapy research strategies have targeted three major classes of cardiac arrhythmias: (1) ventricular arrhythmias, (2) atrial fibrillation, and (3) bradyarrhythmias. Various vehicles for gene transfer have been employed with adeno-associated viral gene delivery being the preferred choice for long-term gene expression and adenoviral gene delivery for short-term proof-of-concept work. In combination with the development of novel delivery methods, gene therapy may prove to be an effective strategy to eliminate the most debilitating of arrhythmias. This article is part of a Special Section entitled "Special Section: Cardiovascular Gene Therapy".
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Greener
- Heart and Vascular Research Center, MetroHealth Campus, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
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24
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Abstract
Cardiac rhythm disorders reflect failures of impulse generation and/or conduction. With the exception of ablation methods that yield selective endocardial destruction, present therapies are nonspecific and/or palliative. Progress in understanding the underlying biology opens up prospects for new alternatives. This article reviews the present state of the art in gene- and cell-based therapies to correct cardiac rhythm disturbances. We begin with the rationale for such approaches, briefly discuss efforts to address aspects of tachyarrhythmia, and review advances in creating a biological pacemaker to cure bradyarrhythmia. Insights gained bring the field closer to a paradigm shift away from devices and drugs, and toward biologics, in the treatment of rhythm disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee Cheol Cho
- Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, 8700 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048, USA.
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25
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Cheng YC, Wang JJ, Chang LS. B chain is a functional subunit of β-bungarotoxin for inducing apoptotic death of human neuroblastoma SK-N-SH cells. Toxicon 2008; 51:304-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2007.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2007] [Revised: 10/05/2007] [Accepted: 10/10/2007] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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26
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Abstract
Alternatively, excitement and frustration have been generated from the literature reports of gene therapy for treatment and potential cure of cardiac diseases. The time since the first literature report of in vivo myocardial gene transfer is more than 15 years, and the time since the first report of gene therapy for a cardiac arrhythmia is six years. Clinical trials, let alone clinical usage, of these promising therapies have not yet started. This article reviews the current state of the art for arrhythmia gene therapy, including the literature reports of antiarrhythmic studies and of problems within the field. Gene transfer continues to be a promising technology, but patience is required as these problems are solved and the therapies make their way through the preclinical and clinical testing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Kevin Donahue
- Heart and Vascular Research Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44116, USA.
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27
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Abstract
Normal cardiac function requires an appropriate and regular beating rate (cardiac rhythm). When the heart rhythm is too fast or too slow, cardiac function can be impaired, with derangements that vary from mild symptoms to life-threatening complications. Irregularities, particularly those involving excessively fast or slow rates, constitute cardiac 'arrhythmias'. In the past, drug treatment of cardiac arrhythmias has proven difficult, both because of inadequate effectiveness and a risk of serious complications. However, a variety of recent advances have opened up exciting possibilities for the development of novel and superior approaches to arrhythmia therapy. This article will review recent progress and future prospects for treating two particularly important cardiac arrhythmias: atrial fibrillation and ventricular fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley Nattel
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, 5000 Belanger Street, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H1T 1C8.
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28
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Nitabach MN, Wu Y, Sheeba V, Lemon WC, Strumbos J, Zelensky PK, White BH, Holmes TC. Electrical hyperexcitation of lateral ventral pacemaker neurons desynchronizes downstream circadian oscillators in the fly circadian circuit and induces multiple behavioral periods. J Neurosci 2006; 26:479-89. [PMID: 16407545 PMCID: PMC2597197 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3915-05.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 219] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Coupling of autonomous cellular oscillators is an essential aspect of circadian clock function but little is known about its circuit requirements. Functional ablation of the pigment-dispersing factor-expressing lateral ventral subset (LNV) of Drosophila clock neurons abolishes circadian rhythms of locomotor activity. The hypothesis that LNVs synchronize oscillations in downstream clock neurons was tested by rendering the LNVs hyperexcitable via transgenic expression of a low activation threshold voltage-gated sodium channel. When the LNVs are made hyperexcitable, free-running behavioral rhythms decompose into multiple independent superimposed oscillations and the clock protein oscillations in the dorsal neuron 1 and 2 subgroups of clock neurons are phase-shifted. Thus, regulated electrical activity of the LNVs synchronize multiple oscillators in the fly circadian pacemaker circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael N Nitabach
- Department of Biology, New York University, New York, New York 10003, USA
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29
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Donahue JK, Kikuchi K, Sasano T. Gene Therapy for Cardiac Arrhythmias. Trends Cardiovasc Med 2005; 15:219-24. [PMID: 16182132 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2005.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2004] [Revised: 06/14/2005] [Accepted: 06/20/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Myocardial gene transfer has become a routine tool to investigate the pathophysiology of cardiac diseases, although translation of gene transfer techniques into therapeutics has not come as quickly as many had hoped. In the field of cardiac arrhythmias, there is a great need for new therapeutic options. The current work reviews the use of gene transfer to evaluate cellular electrophysiology, the application of in vivo gene transfer to treat common arrhythmias, and the current problems in the field of cardiac gene therapy. Arrhythmia gene therapy is a field in its infancy, and future human applications are dependent on solutions to the problems discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Kevin Donahue
- Division of Cardiology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
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