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Sommerfeld LC, Holmes AP, Yu TY, O'Shea C, Kavanagh DM, Pike JM, Wright T, Syeda F, Aljehani A, Kew T, Cardoso VR, Kabir SN, Hepburn C, Menon PR, Broadway-Stringer S, O'Reilly M, Witten A, Fortmueller L, Lutz S, Kulle A, Gkoutos GV, Pavlovic D, Arlt W, Lavery GG, Steeds R, Gehmlich K, Stoll M, Kirchhof P, Fabritz L. Reduced plakoglobin increases the risk of sodium current defects and atrial conduction abnormalities in response to androgenic anabolic steroid abuse. J Physiol 2024; 602:4409-4436. [PMID: 38345865 DOI: 10.1113/jp284597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Androgenic anabolic steroids (AAS) are commonly abused by young men. Male sex and increased AAS levels are associated with earlier and more severe manifestation of common cardiac conditions, such as atrial fibrillation, and rare ones, such as arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). Clinical observations suggest a potential atrial involvement in ARVC. Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy is caused by desmosomal gene defects, including reduced plakoglobin expression. Here, we analysed clinical records from 146 ARVC patients to identify that ARVC is more common in males than females. Patients with ARVC also had an increased incidence of atrial arrhythmias and P wave changes. To study desmosomal vulnerability and the effects of AAS on the atria, young adult male mice, heterozygously deficient for plakoglobin (Plako+/-), and wild type (WT) littermates were chronically exposed to 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or placebo. The DHT increased atrial expression of pro-hypertrophic, fibrotic and inflammatory transcripts. In mice with reduced plakoglobin, DHT exaggerated P wave abnormalities, atrial conduction slowing, sodium current depletion, action potential amplitude reduction and the fall in action potential depolarization rate. Super-resolution microscopy revealed a decrease in NaV1.5 membrane clustering in Plako+/- atrial cardiomyocytes after DHT exposure. In summary, AAS combined with plakoglobin deficiency cause pathological atrial electrical remodelling in young male hearts. Male sex is likely to increase the risk of atrial arrhythmia, particularly in those with desmosomal gene variants. This risk is likely to be exaggerated further by AAS use. KEY POINTS: Androgenic male sex hormones, such as testosterone, might increase the risk of atrial fibrillation in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), which is often caused by desmosomal gene defects (e.g. reduced plakoglobin expression). In this study, we observed a significantly higher proportion of males who had ARVC compared with females, and atrial arrhythmias and P wave changes represented a common observation in advanced ARVC stages. In mice with reduced plakoglobin expression, chronic administration of 5α-dihydrotestosterone led to P wave abnormalities, atrial conduction slowing, sodium current depletion and a decrease in membrane-localized NaV1.5 clusters. 5α-Dihydrotestosterone, therefore, represents a stimulus aggravating the pro-arrhythmic phenotype in carriers of desmosomal mutations and can affect atrial electrical function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Sommerfeld
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center, UKE Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Germany
| | - Andrew P Holmes
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ting Y Yu
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Research and Training Centre in Physical Sciences for Health, Birmingham, UK
| | - Christopher O'Shea
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Research and Training Centre in Physical Sciences for Health, Birmingham, UK
| | - Deirdre M Kavanagh
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jeremy M Pike
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Thomas Wright
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Fahima Syeda
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Areej Aljehani
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Tania Kew
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Victor R Cardoso
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - S Nashitha Kabir
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Claire Hepburn
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Priyanka R Menon
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Molly O'Reilly
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Anika Witten
- Genetic Epidemiology, Institute for Human Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- Core Facility Genomics of the Medical Faculty, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Lisa Fortmueller
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center, UKE Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Germany
- Genetic Epidemiology, Institute for Human Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Susanne Lutz
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Alexandra Kulle
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Georgios V Gkoutos
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center, UKE Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- MRC Health Data Research UK (HDR), Midlands Site, UK
| | - Davor Pavlovic
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (CEDAM), Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, UK
- Medical Research Council London Institute of Medical Sciences, London UK & Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Gareth G Lavery
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (CEDAM), Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, UK
| | - Richard Steeds
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Katja Gehmlich
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Monika Stoll
- Genetic Epidemiology, Institute for Human Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- Core Facility Genomics of the Medical Faculty, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Department of Biochemistry, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Paulus Kirchhof
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Larissa Fabritz
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center, UKE Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart & Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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2
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Nath LC, Saljic A, Buhl R, Elliott A, La Gerche A, Ye C, Schmidt Royal H, Lundgren Virklund K, Agbaedeng TA, Stent A, Franklin S. Histological evaluation of cardiac remodelling in equine athletes. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16709. [PMID: 39030282 PMCID: PMC11271503 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-67621-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Approximately 1-2 per 100,000 young athletes die from sudden cardiac death (SCD) and extreme exercise may be associated with myocardial scar and arrhythmias. Racehorses have a high prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) and SCD but the presence of myocardial scar and inflammation has not been evaluated. Cardiac tissues from the left (LAA) and right (RAA) atrial appendages, left ventricular anterior (LVAPM) and posterior (LVPPM) papillary muscles, and right side of the interventricular septum (IVS-R) were harvested from racehorses with sudden cardiac death (SCD, n = 16) or other fatal injuries (OFI, n = 17), constituting the athletic group (ATH, n = 33), and compared to sedentary horses (SED, n = 10). Horses in the ATH group had myocyte hypertrophy at all sites; increased fibrosis at all sites other than the LAA; increased fibroblast infiltration but a reduction in the overall extracellular matrix (ECM) volume in the RAA, LVAPM, and IVS-R compared to SED horses. In this horse model, athletic conditioning was associated with myocyte hypertrophy and a reduction in ECM. There was an excess of fibrocyte infiltration and focal fibrosis that was not present in non-athletic horses, raising the possibility of an exercise-induced pro-fibrotic substrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Nath
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
| | - A Saljic
- University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - R Buhl
- University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - A Elliott
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - A La Gerche
- St Vincents Institute Medical Research, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - C Ye
- University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - A Stent
- University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - S Franklin
- University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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3
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Winters J, Kawczynski MJ, Gilbers MD, Isaacs A, Zeemering S, Bidar E, Maesen B, Rienstra M, van Gelder I, Verheule S, Maessen JG, Schotten U. Circulating BMP10 Levels Associate With Late Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation and Left Atrial Endomysial Fibrosis. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2024; 10:1326-1340. [PMID: 38639699 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serum bone morphogenetic protein 10 (BMP10) blood levels are a marker for history of atrial fibrillation (AF) and for major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with AF, including stroke, AF recurrences after catheter ablations, and mortality. The predictive value of BMP10 in patients undergoing cardiac surgery and association with morphologic properties of atrial tissues are unknown. OBJECTIVES This study sought to study the correlation between BMP10 levels and preoperative clinical traits, occurrence of early and late postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF), and atrial fibrosis in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. METHODS Patients with and without preoperative AF history undergoing first cardiac surgery were included (RACE V, n = 147). Preoperative blood biomarkers were analyzed, left (n = 114) and right (n = 125) atrial appendage biopsy specimens were histologically investigated after WGA staining, and postoperative rhythm was monitored continuously with implantable loop recorders (n = 133, 2.5 years). RESULTS Adjusted multinomial logistic regression indicated that BMP10 accurately reflected a history of persistent AF (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.10-1.40, P = 0.001), similar to NT-pro-BNP. BMP10 levels were associated with increased late POAF90 occurrence after adjustment for age, sex, AF history, and early POAF occurrence (HR: 1.07 [per 0.1 ng/mL increase], 95% CI: 1.00-1.14, P = 0.041). Left atrial endomysial fibrosis (standardized β = 0.22, P = 0.041) but not overall fibrosis (standardized Β = 0.12, P = 0.261) correlated with circulating BMP10 after adjustment for age, sex, AF history, reduced LVF, and valvular surgery indication. CONCLUSIONS Increased BMP10 levels were associated with persistent AF history, increased late POAF incidence, and LAA endomysial fibrosis in a diverse sample of patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joris Winters
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Michal J Kawczynski
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Heart and Vascular Centre Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Martijn D Gilbers
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Aaron Isaacs
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Maastricht Centre for Systems Biology, University Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Stef Zeemering
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Elham Bidar
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Heart and Vascular Centre Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Bart Maesen
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Heart and Vascular Centre Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Michiel Rienstra
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Isabelle van Gelder
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sander Verheule
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Jos G Maessen
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Heart and Vascular Centre Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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4
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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] [MESH Headings] [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 MaastrichtUniversity MaastrichtMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Aaron Isaacs
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute MaastrichtUniversity MaastrichtMaastrichtThe Netherlands
- Maastricht Centre for Systems BiologyUniversity MaastrichtMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Stef Zeemering
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute MaastrichtUniversity MaastrichtMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Michal Kawczynski
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute MaastrichtUniversity MaastrichtMaastrichtThe Netherlands
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryMaastricht University Medical Centre+MaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Bart Maesen
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryMaastricht University Medical Centre+MaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Jos Maessen
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryMaastricht University Medical Centre+MaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Elham Bidar
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryMaastricht University Medical Centre+MaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Bas Boukens
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute MaastrichtUniversity MaastrichtMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Ben Hermans
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute MaastrichtUniversity MaastrichtMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Arne van Hunnik
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute MaastrichtUniversity MaastrichtMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Barbara Casadei
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, BHF Centre of Research ExcellenceUniversity of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| | - Larissa Fabritz
- Institute of Cardiovascular SciencesBirminghamUnited Kingdom
- University Center of Cardiovascular ScienceUKE HamburgHamburgGermany
- University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg EppendorfHamburgGermany
- DZHK, Standort Hamburg/Kiel/LübeckLübeckGermany
| | - Winnie Chua
- Institute of Cardiovascular SciencesBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Laura Sommerfeld
- Institute of Cardiovascular SciencesBirminghamUnited Kingdom
- University Center of Cardiovascular ScienceUKE HamburgHamburgGermany
- University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg EppendorfHamburgGermany
- DZHK, Standort Hamburg/Kiel/LübeckLübeckGermany
| | - Eduard Guasch
- Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS)BarcelonaSpain
| | - Luis Mont
- Clinic Barcelona, Universitat de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Montserrat Batlle
- Institute of Biomedical Research August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS)BarcelonaSpain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red—Cardiovascular (CIBERCV)MadridSpain
| | | | - Paulus Kirchhof
- Institute of Cardiovascular SciencesBirminghamUnited Kingdom
- University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg EppendorfHamburgGermany
- DZHK, Standort Hamburg/Kiel/LübeckLübeckGermany
| | - Reza Wakili
- Department of Medicine and CardiologyGoethe UniversityFrankfurtGermany
| | - Mortiz Sinner
- University Heart and Vascular Center, University Hospital Hamburg EppendorfHamburgGermany
- DZHK, Standort Hamburg/Kiel/LübeckLübeckGermany
- Department of CardiologyUniversity Hospital of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Monica Stoll
- Maastricht Centre for Systems BiologyUniversity MaastrichtMaastrichtThe Netherlands
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetic Epidemiology and Statistical GeneticsUniversity MaastrichtMaastrichtThe Netherlands
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology, Institute of Human GeneticsUniversity of MünsterMünsterGermany
| | - Andreas Goette
- Department of Cardiology and Intensive Care MedicineSt. Vincenz Hospital PaderbornPaderbornGermany
| | - Sander Verheule
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute MaastrichtUniversity MaastrichtMaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute MaastrichtUniversity MaastrichtMaastrichtThe Netherlands
- Department of CardiologyMaastricht University Medical Centre+MaastrichtThe Netherlands
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5
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Carstensen H, Nissen SD, Saljic A, Hesselkilde EM, van Hunnik A, Hohl M, Sattler SM, Fløgstad C, Hopster-Iversen C, Verheule S, Böhm M, Schotten U, Jespersen T, Buhl R. Long-Term Training Increases Atrial Fibrillation Sustainability in Standardbred Racehorses. J Cardiovasc Transl Res 2023; 16:1205-1219. [PMID: 37014465 PMCID: PMC10615936 DOI: 10.1007/s12265-023-10378-6] [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: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is more prevalent in athletes, and currently, the mechanisms are not fully understood. Atrial fibrillation inducibility and stability was investigated in trained and untrained Standardbred racehorses. The horses underwent echocardiography for evaluation of atrial size. High-density mapping during AF was performed, and the presence of structural remodeling, as well as the expression of inflammatory and pro-inflammatory markers in the atria, was studied. Atrial fibrillation sustained significantly longer after tachypacing in the trained horses, whereas no difference in AF inducibility was found. The untrained horses displayed a significant difference in the AF complexity when comparing right and left atria, whereas such difference was not observed in the trained animals. No evidence of increased structural remodeling or inflammation could be identified. Left atrial dimensions were not significantly increased. The increased AF sustainability in trained horses was not related to fibrosis or inflammation as seen in other animal exercise models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Carstensen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Højbakkegaard Allé 5, 2630, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Sarah Dalgas Nissen
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Arnela Saljic
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva Melis Hesselkilde
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Arne van Hunnik
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Mathias Hohl
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Stefan Michael Sattler
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Cecilie Fløgstad
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Højbakkegaard Allé 5, 2630, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Hopster-Iversen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Højbakkegaard Allé 5, 2630, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Sander Verheule
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Michael Böhm
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Thomas Jespersen
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rikke Buhl
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Højbakkegaard Allé 5, 2630, Taastrup, Denmark
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6
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Droste P, Wong DWL, Hohl M, von Stillfried S, Klinkhammer BM, Boor P. Semiautomated pipeline for quantitative analysis of heart histopathology. J Transl Med 2023; 21:666. [PMID: 37752535 PMCID: PMC10523682 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04544-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heart diseases are among the leading causes of death worldwide, many of which lead to pathological cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and capillary rarefaction in both patients and animal models, the quantification of which is both technically challenging and highly time-consuming. Here we developed a semiautomated pipeline for quantification of the size of cardiomyocytes and capillary density in cardiac histology, termed HeartJ, by generating macros in ImageJ, a broadly used, open-source, Java-based software. METHODS We have used modified Gomori silver staining, which is easy to perform and digitize in high throughput, or Fluorescein-labeled lectin staining. The latter can be easily combined with other stainings, allowing additional quantitative analysis on the same section, e.g., the size of cardiomyocyte nuclei, capillary density, or single-cardiomyocyte protein expression. We validated the pipeline in a mouse model of cardiac hypertrophy induced by transverse aortic constriction, and in autopsy samples of patients with and without aortic stenosis. RESULTS In both animals and humans, HeartJ-based histology quantification revealed significant hypertrophy of cardiomyocytes reflecting other parameters of hypertrophy and rarefaction of microvasculature and enabling the analysis of protein expression in individual cardiomyocytes. The analysis also revealed that murine and human cardiomyocytes had similar diameters in health and extent of hypertrophy in disease confirming the translatability of our murine cardiac hypertrophy model. HeartJ enables a rapid analysis that would not be feasible by manual methods. The pipeline has little hardware requirements and is freely available. CONCLUSIONS In summary, our analysis pipeline can facilitate effective and objective quantitative histological analyses in preclinical and clinical heart samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Droste
- LaBooratory of Nephropathology, Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Dickson W L Wong
- LaBooratory of Nephropathology, Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Mathias Hohl
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Saskia von Stillfried
- LaBooratory of Nephropathology, Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Barbara M Klinkhammer
- LaBooratory of Nephropathology, Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Peter Boor
- LaBooratory of Nephropathology, Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
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7
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O'Reilly M, Sommerfeld LC, O'Shea C, Broadway-Stringer S, Andaleeb S, Reyat JS, Kabir SN, Stastny D, Malinova A, Delbue D, Fortmueller L, Gehmlich K, Pavlovic D, Skryabin BV, Holmes AP, Kirchhof P, Fabritz L. Familial atrial fibrillation mutation M1875T-SCN5A increases early sodium current and dampens the effect of flecainide. Europace 2022; 25:1152-1161. [PMID: 36504385 PMCID: PMC10062360 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euac218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia. Pathogenic variants in genes encoding ion channels are associated with familial AF. The point mutation M1875T in the SCN5A gene, which encodes the α-subunit of the cardiac sodium channel Nav1.5, has been associated with increased atrial excitability and familial AF in patients. METHODS AND RESULTS We designed a new murine model carrying the Scn5a-M1875T mutation enabling us to study the effects of the Nav1.5 mutation in detail in vivo and in vitro using patch clamp and microelectrode recording of atrial cardiomyocytes, optical mapping, electrocardiogram, echocardiography, gravimetry, histology, and biochemistry. Atrial cardiomyocytes from newly generated adult Scn5a-M1875T+/- mice showed a selective increase in the early (peak) cardiac sodium current, larger action potential amplitude, and a faster peak upstroke velocity. Conduction slowing caused by the sodium channel blocker flecainide was less pronounced in Scn5a-M1875T+/- compared to wildtype atria. Overt hypertrophy or heart failure in Scn5a-M1875T+/- mice could be excluded. CONCLUSION The Scn5a-M1875T point mutation causes gain-of-function of the cardiac sodium channel. Our results suggest increased atrial peak sodium current as a potential trigger for increased atrial excitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly O'Reilly
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.,Department of Experimental Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Laura C Sommerfeld
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.,University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center, UKE Hamburg, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany.,DZHK Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - C O'Shea
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - S Broadway-Stringer
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - S Andaleeb
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - J S Reyat
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - S N Kabir
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - D Stastny
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center, UKE Hamburg, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - A Malinova
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - D Delbue
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center, UKE Hamburg, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany.,DZHK Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - L Fortmueller
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center, UKE Hamburg, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany.,DZHK Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - K Gehmlich
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.,Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine and British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence Oxford, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - D Pavlovic
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - B V Skryabin
- Medical Faculty, Core Facility Transgenic animal and genetic engineering Models (TRAM), University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - A P Holmes
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.,Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - P Kirchhof
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.,DZHK Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany.,Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, UKE Hamburg, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
| | - L Fabritz
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Wolfson Drive, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.,University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center, UKE Hamburg, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany.,DZHK Standort Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany.,Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, UKE Hamburg, Martinistraße 52, Hamburg 20246, Germany
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8
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Maesen B, Verheule S, Zeemering S, La Meir M, Nijs J, Lumeij S, Lau DH, Granier M, Crijns HJ, Maessen JG, Dhein S, Schotten U. Endomysial fibrosis, rather than overall connective tissue content, is the main determinant of conduction disturbances in human atrial fibrillation. Europace 2022; 24:1015-1024. [PMID: 35348667 PMCID: PMC9282911 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euac026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Although in persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) a complex AF substrate characterized by a high incidence of conduction block has been reported, relatively little is known about AF complexity in paroxysmal AF (pAF). Also, the relative contribution of various aspects of structural alterations to conduction disturbances is not clear. In particular, the contribution of endomysial fibrosis to conduction disturbances during progression of AF has not been studied yet. Methods and results During cardiac surgery, epicardial high-density mapping was performed in patients with acutely induced (aAF, n = 11), pAF (n = 12), and longstanding persistent AF (persAF, n = 9) on the right atrial (RA) wall, the posterior left atrial wall (pLA) and the LA appendage (LAA). In RA appendages, overall and endomysial (myocyte-to-myocyte distances) fibrosis and connexin 43 (Cx43) distribution were quantified. Unipolar AF electrogram analysis showed a more complex pattern with a larger number of narrower waves, more breakthroughs and a higher fractionation index (FI) in persAF compared with aAF and pAF, with no differences between aAF and pAF. The FI was consistently higher at the pLA compared with the RA. Structurally, Cx43 lateralization increased with AF progression (aAF = 7.5 ± 8.9%, pAF = 24.7 ± 11.1%, persAF = 35.1 ± 11.4%, P < 0.001). Endomysial but not overall fibrosis correlated with AF complexity (r = 0.57, P = 0.001; r = 0.23, P = 0.20; respectively). Conclusions Atrial fibrillation complexity is highly variable in patients with pAF, but not significantly higher than in patients with acutely induced AF, while in patients with persistent AF complexity is higher. Among the structural alterations studied, endomysial fibrosis, but not overall fibrosis, is the strongest determinant of AF complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Maesen
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Verheule
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, PO Box 616, 6200MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Stef Zeemering
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, PO Box 616, 6200MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mark La Meir
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, UZ Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jan Nijs
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, UZ Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stijn Lumeij
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, PO Box 616, 6200MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dennis H Lau
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, PO Box 616, 6200MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mathieu Granier
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, PO Box 616, 6200MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Harry Jgm Crijns
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Jos G Maessen
- Department of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Dhein
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Clinic for Cardiac Surgery, Heart Centre Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, PO Box 616, 6200MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
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9
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da Silva FS, Aquino de Souza NCS, de Moraes MV, Abreu BJ, de Oliveira MF. CmyoSize: An ImageJ macro for automated analysis of cardiomyocyte size in images of routine histology staining. Ann Anat 2022; 241:151892. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2022.151892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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10
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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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11
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Saljic A, Friederike Fenner M, Winters J, Flethøj M, Eggert Eggertsen C, Carstensen H, Dalgas Nissen S, Melis Hesselkilde E, van Hunnik A, Schotten U, Sørensen U, Jespersen T, Verheule S, Buhl R. Increased fibroblast accumulation in the equine heart following persistent atrial fibrillation. IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2021; 35:100842. [PMID: 34355058 PMCID: PMC8322305 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2021.100842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibroblasts maintain the extracellular matrix homeostasis and may couple to cardiomyocytes through gap junctions and thereby increase the susceptibility to slow conduction and cardiac arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation (AF). In this study, we used an equine model of persistent AF to characterize structural changes and the role of fibroblasts in the development of an arrhythmogenic substrate for AF. MATERIAL AND METHODS Eleven horses were subjected to atrial tachypacing until self-sustained AF developed and were kept in AF for six weeks. Horses in sinus rhythm (SR) served as control. In terminal open-chest experiments conduction velocity (CV) was measured. Tissue was harvested and stained from selected sites. Automated image analysis was performed to assess fibrosis, fibroblasts, capillaries and various cardiomyocyte characteristics. RESULTS Horses in SR showed a rate-dependent slowing of CV, while in horses with persistent AF this rate-dependency was completely abolished (CV•basic cycle length relation p = 0.0295). Overall and interstitial amounts of fibrosis were unchanged, but an increased fibroblast count was found in left atrial appendage, Bachmann's bundle, intraatrial septum and pulmonary veins (p < 0.05 for all) in horses with persistent AF. The percentage of α-SMA expressing fibroblasts remained the same between the groups. CONCLUSION Persistent AF resulted in fibroblast accumulation in several regions, particularly in the left atrial appendage. The increased number of fibroblasts could be a mediator of altered electrophysiology during AF. Targeting the fibroblast proliferation and differentiation could potentially serve as a novel therapeutic target slowing down the structural remodeling associated with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnela Saljic
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Merle Friederike Fenner
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Agrovej 8, DK-2630 Taastrup, Denmark
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 7, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Joris Winters
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Mette Flethøj
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Agrovej 8, DK-2630 Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Caroline Eggert Eggertsen
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helena Carstensen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Agrovej 8, DK-2630 Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Sarah Dalgas Nissen
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva Melis Hesselkilde
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Arne van Hunnik
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | | | - Thomas Jespersen
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sander Verheule
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Rikke Buhl
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Agrovej 8, DK-2630 Taastrup, Denmark
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12
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Schotten U. From translation to integration: how to approach the complexity of atrial fibrillation mechanisms. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 117:e88-e90. [PMID: 34131703 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, PO Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
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13
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Feng Y, Chen X, Wang H, Chen X, Lan Z, Li P, Cao Y, Liu M, Lv J, Chen Y, Wang Y, Sheng C, Huang Y, Zhong M, Wang Z, Yue X, Huang L. Collagen I Induces Preeclampsia-Like Symptoms by Suppressing Proliferation and Invasion of Trophoblasts. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:664766. [PMID: 34421817 PMCID: PMC8378400 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.664766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a common obstetric disorder affecting 2-8% of pregnancy worldwide. Fibrosis is an important histological change occurring in preeclamptic placenta, and might depend on the excess deposition of collagen I. However, the role of fibrotic placenta and collagen I in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia remains unclear. Therefore, we analyzed the collagen deposition and the expression of Collagen I in human placenta by Masson staining, Sirius red staining and western blotting. Further, the role of collagen I in preeclampsia pathogenesis was studied in C57BL/6 mice. HTR-8/SVneo cells were used to investigate the mechanisms underlying the effects of collagen I in trophoblasts by transcriptome sequencing and pharmacological agonists. Human preeclamptic placenta exhibited a significantly higher degree of fibrosis in stem villi and terminal villi than normal placenta, and was characterized by collagen I deposition. In vivo, a single injection of collagen I on gestational day 0.5 led to an increase in systolic pressure of pregnant mice from gestational days 4.5-17.5, to a decrease in weight and number of embryos, and to enhanced placental collagen I expression and degree of fibrosis compared with control mice. In vitro, collagen I attenuated the proliferation and invasion of HTR-8SV/neo cells. This effect could be reversed by treatment with agonists of ERK and β-catenin. Moreover, transcriptome sequencing demonstrated that signaling pathways related to cell proliferation and invasion were significantly downregulated in HTR-8SV/neo cells. Thus, we propose that collagen I induced preeclampsia-like symptoms by suppressing the proliferation and invasion of trophoblasts through inhibition of the ERK phosphorylation and WNT/β-catenin signaling pathways. Our findings could pave the way to the discovery of small-molecule inhibitors for preeclampsia treatment and future studies with larger sample size are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinglin Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xia Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Foshan First People’s Hospital, Foshan, China
| | - Huiqiao Wang
- Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueping Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zixin Lan
- Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pan Li
- Microbiome Research Center, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Yingshi Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mian Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin Lv
- Department of Pathology, Foshan First People’s Hospital, Foshan, China
| | - Yun Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chao Sheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingying Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mei Zhong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhijian Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojing Yue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Liping Huang, ; Xiaojing Yue,
| | - Liping Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Liping Huang, ; Xiaojing Yue,
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