1
|
Yang D, Jian Z, Tang C, Chen Z, Zhou Z, Zheng L, Peng X. Zebrafish Congenital Heart Disease Models: Opportunities and Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5943. [PMID: 38892128 PMCID: PMC11172925 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115943] [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: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are common human birth defects. Genetic mutations potentially cause the exhibition of various pathological phenotypes associated with CHDs, occurring alone or as part of certain syndromes. Zebrafish, a model organism with a strong molecular conservation similar to humans, is commonly used in studies on cardiovascular diseases owing to its advantageous features, such as a similarity to human electrophysiology, transparent embryos and larvae for observation, and suitability for forward and reverse genetics technology, to create various economical and easily controlled zebrafish CHD models. In this review, we outline the pros and cons of zebrafish CHD models created by genetic mutations associated with single defects and syndromes and the underlying pathogenic mechanism of CHDs discovered in these models. The challenges of zebrafish CHD models generated through gene editing are also discussed, since the cardiac phenotypes resulting from a single-candidate pathological gene mutation in zebrafish might not mirror the corresponding human phenotypes. The comprehensive review of these zebrafish CHD models will facilitate the understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of CHDs and offer new opportunities for their treatments and intervention strategies.
Collapse
|
2
|
Salgado-Almario J, Molina Y, Vicente M, Martínez-Sielva A, Rodríguez-García R, Vincent P, Domingo B, Llopis J. ERG potassium channels and T-type calcium channels contribute to the pacemaker and atrioventricular conduction in zebrafish larvae. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2024; 240:e14075. [PMID: 38071417 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
AIM Bradyarrhythmias result from inhibition of automaticity, prolonged repolarization, or slow conduction in the heart. The ERG channels mediate the repolarizing current IKr in the cardiac action potential, whereas T-type calcium channels (TTCC) are involved in the sinoatrial pacemaker and atrioventricular conduction in mammals. Zebrafish have become a valuable research model for human cardiac electrophysiology and disease. Here, we investigate the contribution of ERG channels and TTCCs to the pacemaker and atrioventricular conduction in zebrafish larvae and determine the mechanisms causing atrioventricular block. METHODS Zebrafish larvae expressing ratiometric fluorescent Ca2+ biosensors in the heart were used to measure Ca2+ levels and rhythm in beating hearts in vivo, concurrently with contraction and hemodynamics. The atrioventricular delay (the time between the start of atrial and ventricular Ca2+ transients) was used to measure impulse conduction velocity and distinguished between slow conduction and prolonged refractoriness as the cause of the conduction block. RESULTS ERG blockers caused bradycardia and atrioventricular block by prolonging the refractory period in the atrioventricular canal and in working ventricular myocytes. In contrast, inhibition of TTCCs caused bradycardia and second-degree block (Mobitz type I) by slowing atrioventricular conduction. TTCC block did not affect ventricular contractility, despite being highly expressed in cardiomyocytes. Concomitant measurement of Ca2+ levels and ventricular size showed mechano-mechanical coupling: increased preload resulted in a stronger heart contraction in vivo. CONCLUSION ERG channels and TTCCs influence the heart rate and atrioventricular conduction in zebrafish larvae. The zebrafish lines expressing Ca2+ biosensors in the heart allow us to investigate physiological feedback mechanisms and complex arrhythmias.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jussep Salgado-Almario
- Physiology and Cell Dynamics, Facultad de Medicina de Albacete, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Yillcer Molina
- Physiology and Cell Dynamics, Facultad de Medicina de Albacete, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Manuel Vicente
- Physiology and Cell Dynamics, Facultad de Medicina de Albacete, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Antonio Martínez-Sielva
- Physiology and Cell Dynamics, Facultad de Medicina de Albacete, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Raúl Rodríguez-García
- Physiology and Cell Dynamics, Facultad de Medicina de Albacete, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Pierre Vincent
- IGF, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Beatriz Domingo
- Physiology and Cell Dynamics, Facultad de Medicina de Albacete, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Juan Llopis
- Physiology and Cell Dynamics, Facultad de Medicina de Albacete, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wang H, He J, Han X, Wu X, Ye X, Lv W, Zu Y. hoxa1a-Null Zebrafish as a Model for Studying HOXA1-Associated Heart Malformation in Bosley-Salih-Alorainy Syndrome. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:899. [PMID: 37508332 PMCID: PMC10376578 DOI: 10.3390/biology12070899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in HOXA1 can lead to diseases such as Bosley-Salih-Alorainy syndrome, involving severe cardiovascular malformations. However, the role of HOXA1 in cardiac morphogenesis remains unclear. hoxa1a is a homologous gene to human HOXA1 in zebrafish. We used CRISPR to make hoxa1a-null zebrafish that exhibited multiple heart malformations. In situ hybridization and sections revealed the morphological changes in mutants: enlarged ventricle with thickened myocardium and increased trabeculae, intensified OFT and inadequate heart looping, with electrocardiography supporting these pathological changes. High-speed photography captured cardiac pumping and revealed a significant decrease in cardiac output. Furthermore, lacking hoxa1a led to posterior body abnormality that affected movement ability, corresponding with the motor development delay in patients. Upregulation of hox paralogues in hoxa1a-null fish implied a compensatory mechanism between hox genes. Accordingly, we successfully constructed a hoxa1a-null model with a cardiac disease pattern which occurred in human HOXA1-associated heart malformation. The study of hoxa1a in zebrafish can further promote the understanding of hox genes and related diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongjie Wang
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Jingwei He
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Xuemei Han
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Xiuzhi Wu
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Xuebin Ye
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
- Marine Biomedical Science and Technology Innovation Platform of Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Wenchao Lv
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Yao Zu
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
- Marine Biomedical Science and Technology Innovation Platform of Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai 201306, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Coppola A, Lombari P, Mazzella E, Capolongo G, Simeoni M, Perna AF, Ingrosso D, Borriello M. Zebrafish as a Model of Cardiac Pathology and Toxicity: Spotlight on Uremic Toxins. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065656. [PMID: 36982730 PMCID: PMC10052014 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an increasing health care problem. About 10% of the general population is affected by CKD, representing the sixth cause of death in the world. Cardiovascular events are the main mortality cause in CKD, with a cardiovascular risk 10 times higher in these patients than the rate observed in healthy subjects. The gradual decline of the kidney leads to the accumulation of uremic solutes with a negative effect on every organ, especially on the cardiovascular system. Mammalian models, sharing structural and functional similarities with humans, have been widely used to study cardiovascular disease mechanisms and test new therapies, but many of them are rather expensive and difficult to manipulate. Over the last few decades, zebrafish has become a powerful non-mammalian model to study alterations associated with human disease. The high conservation of gene function, low cost, small size, rapid growth, and easiness of genetic manipulation are just some of the features of this experimental model. More specifically, embryonic cardiac development and physiological responses to exposure to numerous toxin substances are similar to those observed in mammals, making zebrafish an ideal model to study cardiac development, toxicity, and cardiovascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annapaola Coppola
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Patrizia Lombari
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Elvira Mazzella
- Department of Translational Medical Science, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Capolongo
- Department of Translational Medical Science, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Mariadelina Simeoni
- Department of Translational Medical Science, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra F. Perna
- Department of Translational Medical Science, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Diego Ingrosso
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Margherita Borriello
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Optical transparency and label-free vessel imaging of zebrafish larvae in shortwave infrared range as a tool for prolonged studying of cardiovascular system development. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20884. [PMID: 36463350 PMCID: PMC9719527 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25386-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Optical techniques are utilized for the non-invasive analysis of the zebrafish cardiovascular system at early developmental stages. Being based mainly on conventional optical microscopy components and image sensors, the wavelength range of the collected and analyzed light is not out of the scope of 400-900 nm. In this paper, we compared the non-invasive optical approaches utilizing visible and near infrared range (VISNIR) 400-1000 and the shortwave infrared range (SWIR) 900-1700 nm. The transmittance spectra of zebrafish tissues were measured in these wavelength ranges, then vessel maps, heart rates, and blood flow velocities were calculated from data in VISNIR and SWIR. An increased pigment pattern transparency was registered in SWIR, while the heart and vessel detection quality in this range is not inferior to VISNIR. Obtained results indicate an increased efficiency of SWIR imaging for monitoring heart function and hemodynamic analysis of zebrafish embryos and larvae and suggest a prolonged registration period in this range compared to other optical techniques that are limited by pigment pattern development.
Collapse
|
6
|
Krylov V, Machikhin A, Sizov D, Guryleva A, Sizova A, Zhdanova S, Tchougounov V, Burlakov A. Influence of hypomagnetic field on the heartbeat in zebrafish embryos. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1040083. [PMID: 36338501 PMCID: PMC9634549 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1040083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The magnetic environment may influence the functioning of the cardiovascular system. It was reported that low-frequency and static magnetic fields affect hemodynamics, heart rate, and heart rate variability in animals and humans. Moreover, recent data suggest that magnetic fields affect the circadian rhythms of physiological processes. The influence of the magnetic environment on heart functionating during early development has been studied insufficiently. We utilized transparent zebrafish embryos to evaluate the effect of the hypomagnetic field on the characteristics of cardiac function using a noninvasive optical approach based on photoplethysmographic microscopic imaging. The embryos were exposed to the geomagnetic and hypomagnetic fields from the second to the 116th hour post fertilization under a 16 h light/8 h dark cycle or constant illumination. The exposure of embryos to the hypomagnetic field in both lighting modes led to increased embryo mortality, the appearance of abnormal phenotypes, and a significant increase in the embryo’s heartbeat rate. The difference between maximal and minimal heartbeat intervals, maximal to minimal heartbeat intervals ratio, and the coefficient of variation of heartbeat rate were increased in the embryos exposed to the hypomagnetic field under constant illumination from 96 to 116 h post fertilization. The dynamics of heartbeat rate changes followed a circadian pattern in all studied groups except zebrafish exposed to the hypomagnetic field under constant illumination. The results demonstrate the importance of natural magnetic background for the early development of zebrafish. The possible mechanisms of observed effects are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viacheslav Krylov
- Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Papanin Institute for Biology of Inland Waters, Russian Academy of Sciences, Borok, Russia
- *Correspondence: Viacheslav Krylov,
| | - Alexander Machikhin
- Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Daniil Sizov
- Papanin Institute for Biology of Inland Waters, Russian Academy of Sciences, Borok, Russia
| | - Anastasia Guryleva
- Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasia Sizova
- Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Papanin Institute for Biology of Inland Waters, Russian Academy of Sciences, Borok, Russia
| | - Svetlana Zhdanova
- Papanin Institute for Biology of Inland Waters, Russian Academy of Sciences, Borok, Russia
| | - Vladimir Tchougounov
- Papanin Institute for Biology of Inland Waters, Russian Academy of Sciences, Borok, Russia
| | - Alexander Burlakov
- Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Peng L, Ma M, Dong Y, Wu Q, An S, Cao M, Wang Y, Zhou C, Zhou M, Wang X, Liang Q, Wang Y. Kuoxin Decoction promotes lymphangiogenesis in zebrafish and in vitro based on network analysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:915161. [PMID: 36105188 PMCID: PMC9465995 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.915161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Inadequate lymphangiogenesis is closely related to the occurrence of many kinds of diseases, and one of the important treatments is to promote lymphangiogenesis. Kuoxin Decoction (KXF) is an herbal formula from traditional Chinese medicine used to treat dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), which is associated with lymphangiogenesis deficiency. In this study, we comprehensively verified whether KXF promotes lymphangiogenesis in zebrafish and in vitro based on network analysis. Methods: We performed virtual screening of the active compounds of KXF and potential targets regarding DCM based on network analysis. Tg (Flila: EGFP; Gata1: DsRed) transgenic zebrafish embryos were treated with different concentrations of KXF for 48 h with or without the pretreatment of MAZ51 for 6 h, followed by morphological observation of the lymphatic vessels and an assessment of lymphopoiesis. RT-qPCR was employed to identify VEGF-C, VEGF-A, PROX1, and LYVE-1 mRNA expression levels in different groups. After the treatment of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) with different concentrations of salvianolic acid B (SAB, the active ingredient of KXF), their proliferation, migration, and protein expression of VEGF-C and VEGFR-3 were compared by CCK-8 assay, wound healing assay, and western blot. Results: A total of 106 active compounds were identified constituting KXF, and 58 target genes of KXF for DCM were identified. There were 132 pathways generated from KEGG enrichment, including 5 signaling pathways related to lymphangiogenesis. Zebrafish experiments confirmed that KXF promoted lymphangiogenesis and increased VEGF-C and VEGF-A mRNA expression levels in zebrafish with or without MAZ51-induced thoracic duct injury. In LECs, SAB promoted proliferation and migration, and it could upregulate the protein expression of VEGF-C and VEGFR-3 in LECs after injury. Conclusion: The results of network analysis showed that KXF could regulate lymphangiogenesis through VEGF-C and VEGF-A, and experiments with zebrafish confirmed that KXF could promote lymphangiogenesis. Cell experiments confirmed that SAB could promote the proliferation and migration of LECs and upregulate the protein expression of VEGF-C and VEGFR-3. These results suggest that KXF promotes lymphangiogenesis by a mechanism related to the upregulation of VEGF-C/VEGFR-3, and the main component exerting this effect may be SAB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Longping Peng
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengjiao Ma
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yidan Dong
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiong Wu
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shiying An
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Cao
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chang Zhou
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Maolin Zhou
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qianqian Liang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Spine Institute, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Theory and Therapy of Muscles and Bones, Ministry of Education, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Qianqian Liang, ; Youhua Wang,
| | - Youhua Wang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Qianqian Liang, ; Youhua Wang,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Welzel G, Schuster S. Electric catfish hearts are not intrinsically immune to electric shocks. J Exp Biol 2022; 225:276258. [PMID: 35946177 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.244307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
High voltage electric shocks cause life threatening cardiac injuries such as sudden cardiac standstill or severe myocardial injury. Here, we analysed the physiology of the heart of the strongly electric catfish (Malapterurus beninensis) that stuns prey with high-voltage shocks but is immune to its own, as well as external, high-voltage shocks. Neither a detailed analysis of the electrocardiogram nor the structure of the heart indicated a specialized cardiac conduction system. Using a suitable perfusion system, we discovered that, despite its immunity in vivo, the explanted heart of electric catfish can readily be activated by external electrical currents and is equally sensitive to electric shock-induced arrhythmias as similar-sized goldfish hearts. The surprise thus is that the electric catfish has a vulnerable heart that requires to be protected by highly efficient but presently unknown means.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georg Welzel
- Department of Animal Physiology, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Stefan Schuster
- Department of Animal Physiology, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Arel E, Rolland L, Thireau J, Torrente AG, Bechard E, Bride J, Jopling C, Demion M, Le Guennec JY. The Effect of Hypothermia and Osmotic Shock on the Electrocardiogram of Adult Zebrafish. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11040603. [PMID: 35453802 PMCID: PMC9025276 DOI: 10.3390/biology11040603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Assessing cardiac toxicity of new drugs is a requirement for their approval. One of the parameters which is carefully looked at is the QT interval, which is determined using an electrocardiogram (ECG). Before undertaking clinical trials using human patients, it is important to first perform pre-clinical tests using animal models. Zebrafish are widely used to study cardiac physiology and several reports suggest that although ECG measurement can be performed, the recording configuration appears to affect the results. Our research aimed to provide a comprehensive characterization of adult zebrafish ECG to determine the best practice for using this model during cardiac toxicity trials. We tested three recording configurations and determined that exposing the heart provided the most reliable and reproducible ECG recordings. We also determined the most accurate correction to apply to calculate the corrected QT, which makes the QT interval independent of the heart rate, a critical parameter when assessing drug cardiac toxicity. Overall, our study highlights the best conditions to record zebrafish ECG and demonstrates their utility for cardiac toxicity testing. Abstract The use of zebrafish to explore cardiac physiology has been widely adopted within the scientific community. Whether this animal model can be used to determine drug cardiac toxicity via electrocardiogram (ECG) analysis is still an ongoing question. Several reports indicate that the recording configuration severely affects the ECG waveforms and its derived-parameters, emphasizing the need for improved characterization. To address this problem, we recorded ECGs from adult zebrafish hearts in three different configurations (unexposed heart, exposed heart, and extracted heart) to identify the most reliable method to explore ECG recordings at baseline and in response to commonly used clinical therapies. We found that the exposed heart configuration provided the most reliable and reproducible ECG recordings of waveforms and intervals. We were unable to determine T wave morphology in unexposed hearts. In extracted hearts, ECG intervals were lengthened and P waves were unstable. However, in the exposed heart configuration, we were able to reliably record ECGs and subsequently establish the QT-RR relationship (Holzgrefe correction) in response to changes in heart rate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elodie Arel
- PhyMedExp, Université de Montpellier, Inserm U1046, UMR CNRS 9412, 34090 Montpellier, France; (E.A.); (J.T.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (M.D.); (J.-Y.L.G.)
- Institut de génomique fonctionnelle (IGF), Université de Montpellier, Inserm U1191, UMR CNRS 5203, 34094 Montpellier, France; (L.R.); (A.G.T.)
| | - Laura Rolland
- Institut de génomique fonctionnelle (IGF), Université de Montpellier, Inserm U1191, UMR CNRS 5203, 34094 Montpellier, France; (L.R.); (A.G.T.)
| | - Jérôme Thireau
- PhyMedExp, Université de Montpellier, Inserm U1046, UMR CNRS 9412, 34090 Montpellier, France; (E.A.); (J.T.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (M.D.); (J.-Y.L.G.)
| | - Angelo Giovanni Torrente
- Institut de génomique fonctionnelle (IGF), Université de Montpellier, Inserm U1191, UMR CNRS 5203, 34094 Montpellier, France; (L.R.); (A.G.T.)
| | - Emilie Bechard
- PhyMedExp, Université de Montpellier, Inserm U1046, UMR CNRS 9412, 34090 Montpellier, France; (E.A.); (J.T.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (M.D.); (J.-Y.L.G.)
| | - Jamie Bride
- PhyMedExp, Université de Montpellier, Inserm U1046, UMR CNRS 9412, 34090 Montpellier, France; (E.A.); (J.T.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (M.D.); (J.-Y.L.G.)
- Institut de génomique fonctionnelle (IGF), Université de Montpellier, Inserm U1191, UMR CNRS 5203, 34094 Montpellier, France; (L.R.); (A.G.T.)
| | - Chris Jopling
- Institut de génomique fonctionnelle (IGF), Université de Montpellier, Inserm U1191, UMR CNRS 5203, 34094 Montpellier, France; (L.R.); (A.G.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Marie Demion
- PhyMedExp, Université de Montpellier, Inserm U1046, UMR CNRS 9412, 34090 Montpellier, France; (E.A.); (J.T.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (M.D.); (J.-Y.L.G.)
| | - Jean-Yves Le Guennec
- PhyMedExp, Université de Montpellier, Inserm U1046, UMR CNRS 9412, 34090 Montpellier, France; (E.A.); (J.T.); (E.B.); (J.B.); (M.D.); (J.-Y.L.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ren B, Yu Y, Poopal RK, Qiao L, Ren B, Ren Z. IR-Based Novel Device for Real-Time Online Acquisition of Fish Heart ECG Signals. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:4262-4271. [PMID: 35258949 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c07732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We developed an infrared (IR)-based real-time online monitoring device (US Patent No: US 10,571,448 B2) to quantify heart electrocardiogram (ECG) signals to assess the water quality based on physiological changes in fish. The device is compact, allowing us to monitor cardiac function for an extended period (from 7 to 30 days depending on the rechargeable battery capacity) without function injury and disturbance of swimming activity. The electrode samples and the biopotential amplifier and microcontroller process the cardiac-electrical signals. An infrared transceiver transmits denoised electrocardiac signals to complete the signal transmission. The infrared receiver array and biomedical acquisition signal processing system send signals to the computer. The software in the computer processes the data in real time. We quantified ECG indexes (P-wave, Q-wave, R-wave, S-wave, T-wave, PR-interval, QRS-complex, and QT-interval) of carp precisely and incessantly under the different experimental setup (CuSO4 and deltamethrin). The ECG cue responses were chemical-specific based on CuSO4 and deltamethrin exposures. This study provides an additional technology for noninvasive water quality surveillance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Baixiang Ren
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, 250358 Jinan, China
| | - Yaxin Yu
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, 250358 Jinan, China
| | - Rama-Krishnan Poopal
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, 250358 Jinan, China
| | - Linlin Qiao
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, 250358 Jinan, China
| | - Baichuan Ren
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, 250358 Jinan, China
| | - Zongming Ren
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, 250358 Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bowley G, Kugler E, Wilkinson R, Lawrie A, van Eeden F, Chico TJA, Evans PC, Noël ES, Serbanovic-Canic J. Zebrafish as a tractable model of human cardiovascular disease. Br J Pharmacol 2022; 179:900-917. [PMID: 33788282 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian models including non-human primates, pigs and rodents have been used extensively to study the mechanisms of cardiovascular disease. However, there is an increasing desire for alternative model systems that provide excellent scientific value while replacing or reducing the use of mammals. Here, we review the use of zebrafish, Danio rerio, to study cardiovascular development and disease. The anatomy and physiology of zebrafish and mammalian cardiovascular systems are compared, and we describe the use of zebrafish models in studying the mechanisms of cardiac (e.g. congenital heart defects, cardiomyopathy, conduction disorders and regeneration) and vascular (endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, lipid metabolism, vascular ageing, neurovascular physiology and stroke) pathologies. We also review the use of zebrafish for studying pharmacological responses to cardiovascular drugs and describe several features of zebrafish that make them a compelling model for in vivo screening of compounds for the treatment cardiovascular disease. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Preclinical Models for Cardiovascular disease research (BJP 75th Anniversary). To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v179.5/issuetoc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George Bowley
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Elizabeth Kugler
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Institute of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rob Wilkinson
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Allan Lawrie
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Freek van Eeden
- Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Tim J A Chico
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Paul C Evans
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Emily S Noël
- Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Jovana Serbanovic-Canic
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Bateson Centre, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chen S, Jiao Y, Pan F, Guan Z, Cheng SH, Sun D. Knock-in of a Large Reporter Gene via the High-Throughput Microinjection of the CRISPR/Cas9 System. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2022; 69:2524-2532. [PMID: 35133958 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2022.3149530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The non-viral delivery of the prokaryotic clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated protein 9 (Cas9) nuclease system provides promising solutions for gene therapy. However, traditional chemical and physical delivery approaches for gene knock-in are confronted by significant challenges to overcome the draw-backs of low efficiency and high toxicity. An alternative method for directly delivering CRISPR components into single cells is microinjection. Here, we present the high-throughput robotic microinjection of CRISPR machinery plasmids to produce gene insertions. We demonstrate that the microinjection of CRISPR/Cas9 with an enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) donor template into single HepG2 cells can achieve re-porter gene knock-in targeting the adeno-associated virus site 1 locus. Homology-directed repair-mediated knock-in can be ob-served with an efficiency of 41%. Assessment via T7E1 assay indicates that the eGFP knock-in cells exhibit no detectable changes at potential off-target sites. A case study of injecting the eGFP knock-in cells into zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos to form an in vivo tumor model is conducted. Results demonstrate the efficiency of combining microinjection with the CRISPR/Cas9 system in achieving gene knock-in.
Collapse
|
13
|
Le T, Zhang J, Nguyen AH, Trigo Torres RS, Vo K, Dutt N, Lee J, Ding Y, Xu X, Lau MPH, Cao H. A novel wireless ECG system for prolonged monitoring of multiple zebrafish for heart disease and drug screening studies. Biosens Bioelectron 2022; 197:113808. [PMID: 34801796 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Zebrafish and their mutant lines have been extensively used in cardiovascular studies. In the current study, the novel system, Zebra II, is presented for prolonged electrocardiogram (ECG) acquisition and analysis for multiple zebrafish within controllable working environments. The Zebra II is composed of a perfusion system, apparatuses, sensors, and an in-house electronic system. First, the Zebra II is validated in comparison with a benchmark system, namely iWORX, through various experiments. The validation displayed comparable results in terms of data quality and ECG changes in response to drug treatment. The effects of anesthetic drugs and temperature variation on zebrafish ECG were subsequently investigated in experiments that need real-time data assessment. The Zebra II's capability of continuous anesthetic administration enabled prolonged ECG acquisition up to 1 h compared to that of 5 min in existing systems. The novel, cloud-based, automated analysis with data obtained from four fish further provided a useful solution for combinatorial experiments and helped save significant time and effort. The system showed robust ECG acquisition and analytics for various applications including arrhythmia in sodium induced sinus arrest, temperature-induced heart rate variation, and drug-induced arrhythmia in Tg(SCN5A-D1275N) mutant and wildtype fish. The multiple channel acquisition also enabled the implementation of randomized controlled trials on zebrafish models. The developed ECG system holds promise and solves current drawbacks in order to greatly accelerate drug screening applications and other cardiovascular studies using zebrafish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tai Le
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, UC Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Jimmy Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, UC Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Anh H Nguyen
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, UC Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA; Sensoriis., Inc, Edmonds, WA, 98026, USA
| | | | - Khuong Vo
- Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences, UC Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Nikil Dutt
- Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences, UC Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Juhyun Lee
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas, Arlington, TX, 76019, USA
| | - Yonghe Ding
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Xiaolei Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | | | - Hung Cao
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, UC Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, UC Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA; Sensoriis., Inc, Edmonds, WA, 98026, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Duong T, Rose R, Blazeski A, Fine N, Woods CE, Thole JF, Sotoodehnia N, Soliman EZ, Tung L, McCallion AS, Arking DE. Development and optimization of an in vivo electrocardiogram recording method and analysis program for adult zebrafish. Dis Model Mech 2021; 14:dmm048827. [PMID: 34378773 PMCID: PMC8380046 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.048827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinically pertinent electrocardiogram (ECG) data from model systems, such as zebrafish, are crucial for illuminating factors contributing to human cardiac electrophysiological abnormalities and disease. Current zebrafish ECG collection strategies have not adequately addressed the consistent acquisition of high-quality traces or sources of phenotypic variation that could obscure data interpretation. Thus, we developed a novel platform to ensure high-quality recording of in vivo subdermal adult zebrafish ECGs and zebrafish ECG reading GUI (zERG), a program to acquire measurements from traces that commercial software cannot examine owing to erroneous peak calling. We evaluate normal ECG trait variation, revealing highly reproducible intervals and wave amplitude variation largely driven by recording artifacts, and identify sex and body size as potential confounders to PR, QRS and QT intervals. With this framework, we characterize the effect of the class I anti-arrhythmic drug flecainide acetate on adults, provide support for the impact of a Long QT syndrome model, and establish power calculations for this and other studies. These results highlight our pipeline as a robust approach to evaluate zebrafish models of human cardiac electrophysiological phenotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- ThuyVy Duong
- McKusick-Nathans Institute, Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Rebecca Rose
- McKusick-Nathans Institute, Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Adriana Blazeski
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Noah Fine
- McKusick-Nathans Institute, Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Courtney E. Woods
- McKusick-Nathans Institute, Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Joseph F. Thole
- McKusick-Nathans Institute, Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Nona Sotoodehnia
- Cardiovascular Health Research Unit, Departments of Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Elsayed Z. Soliman
- Epidemiological Cardiology Research Center (EPICARE), Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Leslie Tung
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Andrew S. McCallion
- McKusick-Nathans Institute, Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Dan E. Arking
- McKusick-Nathans Institute, Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhao Y, Chen C, Yun M, Issa T, Lin A, Nguyen TP. Constructing Adult Zebrafish Einthoven's Triangle to Define Electrical Heart Axes. Front Physiol 2021; 12:708938. [PMID: 34366897 PMCID: PMC8342992 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.708938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish is a popular high-throughput vertebrate model to study human cardiac electrophysiology, arrhythmias, and myopathies. One reason for this popularity is the purported striking similarities between zebrafish and human electrocardiograms (ECGs). However, zebrafish electrical heart axes were unknown. It is impossible to define heart axis based on single-lead ECG because determination of an electrical heart axis in the frontal plane requires the use of the hexaxial reference system (or Cabrera system) derived from Einthoven’s triangle. Construction of Einthoven’s triangle requires simultaneous ECG recording from at least two Einthoven bipolar leads. Therefore, we systematically constructed the first zebrafish Einthoven’s triangle by simultaneous bipolar dual-lead ECG recording to determine for the first time the three frontal electrical heart axes using the Cabrera system. Comparing zebrafish with human Einthoven’s triangle reveals that their normal frontal electrical axes were reflections of each other across 0° in the Cabrera system. The responsible mechanisms involve zebrafish vs. human cardiac activation propagating in the same direction along the heart horizontal axis but in opposite directions along the heart longitudinal axis. The same observations are true for zebrafish vs. human cardiac repolarization. This study marks a technical breakthrough in the first bipolar dual-lead ECG recording in live adult zebrafish to construct for the first time zebrafish Einthoven’s triangle. This first systematic analysis of the actual differences and similarities between normal adult zebrafish and human Einthoven’s triangles unmasked differences and similarities in the underlying cardiac axis mechanisms. Insights of the live adult zebrafish main heart axis and its three frontal electrical heart axes provide critical contextual framework to interpret the clinical relevance of the adult zebrafish heart as model for human cardiac electrophysiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yali Zhao
- The Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Connie Chen
- The Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Morgan Yun
- The Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Thomas Issa
- The Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Andrew Lin
- The Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Thao P Nguyen
- The Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Da Silveira Cavalcante L, Tessier SN. Zebrafish as a New Tool in Heart Preservation Research. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2021; 8:39. [PMID: 33917701 PMCID: PMC8068018 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd8040039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart transplantation became a reality at the end of the 1960s as a life-saving option for patients with end-stage heart failure. Static cold storage (SCS) at 4-6 °C has remained the standard for heart preservation for decades. However, SCS only allows for short-term storage that precludes optimal matching programs, requires emergency surgeries, and results in the unnecessary discard of organs. Among the alternatives seeking to extend ex vivo lifespan and mitigate the shortage of organs are sub-zero or machine perfusion modalities. Sub-zero approaches aim to prolong cold ischemia tolerance by deepening metabolic stasis, while machine perfusion aims to support metabolism through the continuous delivery of oxygen and nutrients. Each of these approaches hold promise; however, complex barriers must be overcome before their potential can be fully realized. We suggest that one barrier facing all experimental efforts to extend ex vivo lifespan are limited research tools. Mammalian models are usually the first choice due to translational aspects, yet experimentation can be restricted by expertise, time, and resources. Instead, there are instances when smaller vertebrate models, like the zebrafish, could fill critical experimental gaps in the field. Taken together, this review provides a summary of the current gold standard for heart preservation as well as new technologies in ex vivo lifespan extension. Furthermore, we describe how existing tools in zebrafish research, including isolated organ, cell specific and functional assays, as well as molecular tools, could complement and elevate heart preservation research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Da Silveira Cavalcante
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 2114, USA;
- Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, MA 2114, USA
| | - Shannon N. Tessier
- Center for Engineering in Medicine and Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 2114, USA;
- Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, MA 2114, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Santiago CF, Huttner IG, Fatkin D. Mechanisms of TTNtv-Related Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Insights from Zebrafish Models. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2021; 8:jcdd8020010. [PMID: 33504111 PMCID: PMC7912658 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd8020010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a common heart muscle disorder characterized by ventricular dilation and contractile dysfunction that is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. New insights into disease mechanisms and strategies for treatment and prevention are urgently needed. Truncating variants in the TTN gene, which encodes the giant sarcomeric protein titin (TTNtv), are the most common genetic cause of DCM, but exactly how TTNtv promote cardiomyocyte dysfunction is not known. Although rodent models have been widely used to investigate titin biology, they have had limited utility for TTNtv-related DCM. In recent years, zebrafish (Danio rerio) have emerged as a powerful alternative model system for studying titin function in the healthy and diseased heart. Optically transparent embryonic zebrafish models have demonstrated key roles of titin in sarcomere assembly and cardiac development. The increasing availability of sophisticated imaging tools for assessment of heart function in adult zebrafish has revolutionized the field and opened new opportunities for modelling human genetic disorders. Genetically modified zebrafish that carry a human A-band TTNtv have now been generated and shown to spontaneously develop DCM with age. This zebrafish model will be a valuable resource for elucidating the phenotype modifying effects of genetic and environmental factors, and for exploring new drug therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celine F. Santiago
- Molecular Cardiology and Biophysics Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia; (C.F.S.); (I.G.H.)
- St. Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Inken G. Huttner
- Molecular Cardiology and Biophysics Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia; (C.F.S.); (I.G.H.)
- St. Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Diane Fatkin
- Molecular Cardiology and Biophysics Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia; (C.F.S.); (I.G.H.)
- St. Vincent’s Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia
- Cardiology Department, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Echeazarra L, Hortigón-Vinagre MP, Casis O, Gallego M. Adult and Developing Zebrafish as Suitable Models for Cardiac Electrophysiology and Pathology in Research and Industry. Front Physiol 2021; 11:607860. [PMID: 33519514 PMCID: PMC7838705 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.607860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The electrophysiological behavior of the zebrafish heart is very similar to that of the human heart. In fact, most of the genes that codify the channels and regulatory proteins required for human cardiac function have their orthologs in the zebrafish. The high fecundity, small size, and easy handling make the zebrafish embryos/larvae an interesting candidate to perform whole animal experiments within a plate, offering a reliable and low-cost alternative to replace rodents and larger mammals for the study of cardiac physiology and pathology. The employment of zebrafish embryos/larvae has widened from basic science to industry, being of particular interest for pharmacology studies, since the zebrafish embryo/larva is able to recapitulate a complete and integrated view of cardiac physiology, missed in cell culture. As in the human heart, IKr is the dominant repolarizing current and it is functional as early as 48 h post fertilization. Finally, genome editing techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 facilitate the humanization of zebrafish embryos/larvae. These techniques allow one to replace zebrafish genes by their human orthologs, making humanized zebrafish embryos/larvae the most promising in vitro model, since it allows the recreation of human-organ-like environment, which is especially necessary in cardiac studies due to the implication of dynamic factors, electrical communication, and the paracrine signals in cardiac function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leyre Echeazarra
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad del País Vasco UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Maria Pura Hortigón-Vinagre
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Genética>, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Oscar Casis
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad del País Vasco UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Mónica Gallego
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad del País Vasco UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sieliwonczyk E, Matchkov VV, Vandendriessche B, Alaerts M, Bakkers J, Loeys B, Schepers D. Inherited Ventricular Arrhythmia in Zebrafish: Genetic Models and Phenotyping Tools. Rev Physiol Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 184:33-68. [PMID: 34533615 DOI: 10.1007/112_2021_65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In the last years, the field of inheritable ventricular arrhythmia disease modelling has changed significantly with a push towards the use of novel cellular cardiomyocyte based models. However, there is a growing need for new in vivo models to study the disease pathology at the tissue and organ level. Zebrafish provide an excellent opportunity for in vivo modelling of inheritable ventricular arrhythmia syndromes due to the remarkable similarity between their cardiac electrophysiology and that of humans. Additionally, many state-of-the-art methods in gene editing and electrophysiological phenotyping are available for zebrafish research. In this review, we give a comprehensive overview of the published zebrafish genetic models for primary electrical disorders and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy. We summarise and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the different technical approaches for the generation of genetically modified zebrafish disease models, as well as the electrophysiological approaches in zebrafish phenotyping. By providing this detailed overview, we aim to draw attention to the potential of the zebrafish model for studying arrhythmia syndromes at the organ level and as a platform for personalised medicine and drug testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Sieliwonczyk
- Center of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Vladimir V Matchkov
- Department of Biomedicine, Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Bert Vandendriessche
- Center of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Maaike Alaerts
- Center of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Bakkers
- Hubrecht Institute for Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bart Loeys
- Center of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Dorien Schepers
- Center of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp and Antwerp University Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium.,Laboratory for Molecular, Cellular and Network Excitability, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
Inherited cardiac arrhythmias contribute substantially to sudden cardiac death in the young. The underlying pathophysiology remains incompletely understood because of the lack of representative study models and the labour-intensive nature of electrophysiological patch clamp experiments. Whereas patch clamp is still considered the gold standard for investigating electrical properties in a cell, optical mapping of voltage and calcium transients has paved the way for high-throughput studies. Moreover, the development of human-induced pluripotent stem-cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) has enabled the study of patient specific cell lines capturing the full genomic background. Nevertheless, hiPSC-CMs do not fully address the complex interactions between various cell types in the heart. Studies using in vivo models, are therefore necessary. Given the analogies between the human and zebrafish cardiovascular system, zebrafish has emerged as a cost-efficient model for arrhythmogenic diseases. In this review, we describe how hiPSC-CM and zebrafish are employed as models to study primary electrical disorders. We provide an overview of the contemporary electrophysiological phenotyping tools and discuss in more depth the different strategies available for optical mapping. We consider the current advantages and disadvantages of both hiPSC-CM and zebrafish as a model and optical mapping as phenotyping tool and propose strategies for further improvement. Overall, the combination of experimental readouts at cellular (hiPSC-CM) and whole organ (zebrafish) level can raise our understanding of the complexity of inherited cardiac arrhythmia disorders to the next level.
Collapse
|
21
|
Functional evaluation of gene mutations in Long QT Syndrome: strength of evidence from in vitro assays for deciphering variants of uncertain significance. JOURNAL OF CONGENITAL CARDIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s40949-020-00037-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Genetic screening is now commonplace for patients suspected of having inherited cardiac conditions. Variants of uncertain significance (VUS) in disease-associated genes pose problems for the diagnostician and reliable methods for evaluating VUS function are required. Although function is difficult to interrogate for some genes, heritable channelopathies have established mechanisms that should be amenable to well-validated evaluation techniques.
The cellular electrophysiology techniques of ‘voltage-’ and ‘patch-’ clamp have a long history of successful use and have been central to identifying both the roles of genes involved in different forms of congenital Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) and the mechanisms by which mutations lead to aberrant ion channel function underlying clinical phenotypes. This is particularly evident for KCNQ1, KCNH2 and SCN5A, mutations in which underlie > 90% of genotyped LQTS cases (the LQT1-LQT3 subtypes). Recent studies utilizing high throughput (HT) planar patch-clamp recording have shown it to discriminate effectively between rare benign and pathological variants, studied through heterologous expression of recombinant channels. In combination with biochemical methods for evaluating channel trafficking and supported by biophysical modelling, patch clamp also provides detailed mechanistic insight into the functional consequences of identified mutations. Whilst potentially powerful, patient-specific stem-cell derived cardiomyocytes and genetically modified animal models are currently not well-suited to high throughput VUS study.
Conclusion
The widely adopted 2015 American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) and Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) guidelines for the interpretation of sequence variants include the PS3 criterion for consideration of evidence from well-established in vitro or in vivo assays. The wealth of information on underlying mechanisms of LQT1-LQT3 and recent HT patch clamp data support consideration of patch clamp data together (for LQT1 and LQT2) with information from biochemical trafficking assays as meeting the PS3 criterion of well established assays, able to provide ‘strong’ evidence for functional pathogenicity of identified VUS.
Collapse
|
22
|
Santoso F, Farhan A, Castillo AL, Malhotra N, Saputra F, Kurnia KA, Chen KHC, Huang JC, Chen JR, Hsiao CD. An Overview of Methods for Cardiac Rhythm Detection in Zebrafish. Biomedicines 2020; 8:E329. [PMID: 32899676 PMCID: PMC7554775 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8090329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The heart is the most important muscular organ of the cardiovascular system, which pumps blood and circulates, supplying oxygen and nutrients to peripheral tissues. Zebrafish have been widely explored in cardiotoxicity research. For example, the zebrafish embryo has been used as a human heart model due to its body transparency, surviving several days without circulation, and facilitating mutant identification to recapitulate human diseases. On the other hand, adult zebrafish can exhibit the amazing regenerative heart muscle capacity, while adult mammalian hearts lack this potential. This review paper offers a brief description of the major methodologies used to detect zebrafish cardiac rhythm at both embryonic and adult stages. The dynamic pixel change method was mostly performed for the embryonic stage. Other techniques, such as kymography, laser confocal microscopy, artificial intelligence, and electrocardiography (ECG) have also been applied to study heartbeat in zebrafish embryos. Nevertheless, ECG is widely used for heartbeat detection in adult zebrafish since ECG waveforms' similarity between zebrafish and humans is prominent. High-frequency ultrasound imaging (echocardiography) and modern electronic sensor tag also have been proposed. Despite the fact that each method has its benefits and limitations, it is proved that zebrafish have become a promising animal model for human cardiovascular disease, drug pharmaceutical, and toxicological research. Using those tools, we conclude that zebrafish behaviors as an excellent small animal model to perform real-time monitoring for the developmental heart process with transparent body appearance, to conduct the in vivo cardiovascular performance and gene function assays, as well as to perform high-throughput/high content drug screening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiorency Santoso
- Master Program in Nanotechnology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 320314, Taiwan;
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 320314, Taiwan; (F.S.); (K.A.K.)
| | - Ali Farhan
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Punjab 38000, Pakistan;
| | - Agnes L. Castillo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The Graduate School and Research Center for the Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Santo Tomas, Manila 1008, Philippines;
| | - Nemi Malhotra
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 320314, Taiwan;
| | - Ferry Saputra
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 320314, Taiwan; (F.S.); (K.A.K.)
| | - Kevin Adi Kurnia
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 320314, Taiwan; (F.S.); (K.A.K.)
| | - Kelvin H.-C. Chen
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Pingtung University, Pingtung 900391, Taiwan;
| | - Jong-Chin Huang
- Department of Applied Chemistry, National Pingtung University, Pingtung 900391, Taiwan;
| | - Jung-Ren Chen
- Department of Biological Science & Technology College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung 82445, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Der Hsiao
- Master Program in Nanotechnology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 320314, Taiwan;
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 320314, Taiwan; (F.S.); (K.A.K.)
- Center of Nanotechnology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chung-Li 320314, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Mousavi SE, Patil JG. Light-cardiogram, a simple technique for heart rate determination in adult zebrafish, Danio rerio. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2020; 246:110705. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2020.110705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
24
|
Zhao Y, James NA, Beshay AR, Chang EE, Lin A, Bashar F, Wassily A, Nguyen B, Nguyen TP. Adult zebrafish ventricular electrical gradients as tissue mechanisms of ECG patterns under baseline vs. oxidative stress. Cardiovasc Res 2020; 117:1891-1907. [PMID: 32735330 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvaa238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS In mammalian ventricles, electrical gradients establish electrical heterogeneities as essential tissue mechanisms to optimize mechanical efficiency and safeguard electrical stability. Electrical gradients shape mammalian electrocardiographic patterns; disturbance of electrical gradients is proarrhythmic. The zebrafish heart is a popular surrogate model for human cardiac electrophysiology thanks to its remarkable recapitulation of human electrocardiogram and ventricular action potential features. Yet, zebrafish ventricular electrical gradients are largely unexplored. The goal of this study is to define the zebrafish ventricular electrical gradients that shape the QRS complex and T wave patterns at baseline and under oxidative stress. METHODS AND RESULTS We performed in vivo electrocardiography and ex vivo voltage-sensitive fluorescent epicardial and transmural optical mapping of adult zebrafish hearts at baseline and during acute H2O2 exposure. At baseline, apicobasal activation and basoapical repolarization gradients accounted for the polarity concordance between the QRS complex and T wave. During H2O2 exposure, differential regional impairment of activation and repolarization at the apex and base disrupted prior to baseline electrical gradients, resulting in either reversal or loss of polarity concordance between the QRS complex and T wave. KN-93, a specific calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II inhibitor (CaMKII), protected zebrafish hearts from H2O2 disruption of electrical gradients. The protection was complete if administered prior to oxidative stress exposure. CONCLUSIONS Despite remarkable apparent similarities, zebrafish and human ventricular electrocardiographic patterns are mirror images supported by opposite electrical gradients. Like mammalian ventricles, zebrafish ventricles are also susceptible to H2O2 proarrhythmic perturbation via CaMKII activation. Our findings suggest that the adult zebrafish heart may constitute a clinically relevant model to investigate ventricular arrhythmias induced by oxidative stress. However, the fundamental ventricular activation and repolarization differences between the two species that we demonstrated in this study highlight the potential limitations when extrapolating results from zebrafish experiments to human cardiac electrophysiology, arrhythmias, and drug toxicities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Thao P Nguyen
- The Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Translating GWAS-identified loci for cardiac rhythm and rate using an in vivo image- and CRISPR/Cas9-based approach. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11831. [PMID: 32678143 PMCID: PMC7367351 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68567-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) identified eight loci that are associated with heart rate variability (HRV), but candidate genes in these loci remain uncharacterized. We developed an image- and CRISPR/Cas9-based pipeline to systematically characterize candidate genes for HRV in live zebrafish embryos. Nine zebrafish orthologues of six human candidate genes were targeted simultaneously in eggs from fish that transgenically express GFP on smooth muscle cells (Tg[acta2:GFP]), to visualize the beating heart. An automated analysis of repeated 30 s recordings of beating atria in 381 live, intact zebrafish embryos at 2 and 5 days post-fertilization highlighted genes that influence HRV (hcn4 and si:dkey-65j6.2 [KIAA1755]); heart rate (rgs6 and hcn4); and the risk of sinoatrial pauses and arrests (hcn4). Exposure to 10 or 25 µM ivabradine—an open channel blocker of HCNs—for 24 h resulted in a dose-dependent higher HRV and lower heart rate at 5 days post-fertilization. Hence, our screen confirmed the role of established genes for heart rate and rhythm (RGS6 and HCN4); showed that ivabradine reduces heart rate and increases HRV in zebrafish embryos, as it does in humans; and highlighted a novel gene that plays a role in HRV (KIAA1755).
Collapse
|
26
|
Yan J, Li H, Bu H, Jiao K, Zhang AX, Le T, Cao H, Li Y, Ding Y, Xu X. Aging-associated sinus arrest and sick sinus syndrome in adult zebrafish. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0232457. [PMID: 32401822 PMCID: PMC7219707 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0232457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Because of its powerful genetics, the adult zebrafish has been increasingly used for studying cardiovascular diseases. Considering its heart rate of ~100 beats per minute at ambient temperature, which is very close to human, we assessed the use of this vertebrate animal for modeling heart rhythm disorders such as sinus arrest (SA) and sick sinus syndrome (SSS). We firstly optimized a protocol to measure electrocardiogram in adult zebrafish. We determined the location of the probes, implemented an open-chest microsurgery procedure, measured the effects of temperature, and determined appropriate anesthesia dose and time. We then proposed an PP interval of more than 1.5 seconds as an arbitrary criterion to define an SA episode in an adult fish at ambient temperature, based on comparison between the current definition of an SA episode in humans and our studies of candidate SA episodes in aged wild-type fish and Tg(SCN5A-D1275N) fish (a fish model for inherited SSS). With this criterion, a subpopulation of about 5% wild-type fish can be considered to have SA episodes, and this percentage significantly increases to about 25% in 3-year-old fish. In response to atropine, this subpopulation has both common SSS phenotypic traits that are shared with the Tg(SCN5A-D1275N) model, such as bradycardia; and unique SSS phenotypic traits, such as increased QRS/P ratio and chronotropic incompetence. In summary, this study defined baseline SA and SSS in adult zebrafish and underscored use of the zebrafish as an alternative model to study aging-associated SSS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianhua Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Division of Cardiology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated To Shanghai Jiaotong University School Of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongsong Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Haisong Bu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Kunli Jiao
- Division of Cardiology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated To Shanghai Jiaotong University School Of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Alex X. Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Tai Le
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, UC Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Hung Cao
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, UC Irvine, Irvine, California
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, UC Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Yigang Li
- Division of Cardiology, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated To Shanghai Jiaotong University School Of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yonghe Ding
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Xiaolei Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Shrestha R, Lieberth J, Tillman S, Natalizio J, Bloomekatz J. Using Zebrafish to Analyze the Genetic and Environmental Etiologies of Congenital Heart Defects. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1236:189-223. [PMID: 32304074 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-2389-2_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are among the most common human birth defects. However, the etiology of a large proportion of CHDs remains undefined. Studies identifying the molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie cardiac development have been critical to elucidating the origin of CHDs. Building upon this knowledge to understand the pathogenesis of CHDs requires examining how genetic or environmental stress changes normal cardiac development. Due to strong molecular conservation to humans and unique technical advantages, studies using zebrafish have elucidated both fundamental principles of cardiac development and have been used to create cardiac disease models. In this chapter we examine the unique toolset available to zebrafish researchers and how those tools are used to interrogate the genetic and environmental contributions to CHDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rabina Shrestha
- Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, USA
| | - Jaret Lieberth
- Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, USA
| | - Savanna Tillman
- Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, USA
| | - Joseph Natalizio
- Department of Biology, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Balkrishna A, Rustagi Y, Bhattacharya K, Varshney A. Application of Zebrafish Model in the Suppression of Drug-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy by Traditional Indian Medicine Yogendra Ras. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10040600. [PMID: 32295034 PMCID: PMC7226110 DOI: 10.3390/biom10040600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish is an elegant vertebrate employed to model the pathological etiologies of human maladies such as cardiac diseases. Persistent physiological stresses can induce abnormalities in heart functions such as cardiac hypertrophy (CH), which can lead to morbidity and mortality. In the present study, using zebrafish as a study model, efficacy of the traditional Indian Ayurveda medicine “Yogendra Ras” (YDR) was validated in ameliorating drug-induced cardiac hypertrophy. YDR was prepared using traditionally described methods and composed of nano- and micron-sized metal particles. Elemental composition analysis of YDR showed the presence of mainly Au, Sn, and Hg. Cardiac hypertrophy was induced in the zebrafish following a pretreatment with erythromycin (ERY), and the onset and reconciliation of disease by YDR were determined using a treadmill electrocardiogram, heart anatomy analysis, C-reactive protein release, and platelet aggregation time-analysis. YDR treatment of CH-induced zebrafish showed comparable results with the Standard-of-care drug, verapamil, tested in parallel. Under in-vitro conditions, treatment of isoproterenol (ISP)-stimulated murine cardiomyocytes (H9C2) with YDR resulted in the suppression of drug-stimulated biomarkers of oxidative stress: COX-2, NOX-2, NOX-4, ANF, troponin-I, -T, and cardiolipin. Taken together, zebrafish showed a strong disposition as a model for studying the efficacy of Ayurvedic medicines towards drug-induced cardiopathies. YDR provided strong evidence for its capability in modulating drug-induced CH through the restoration of redox homeostasis and exhibited potential as a viable complementary therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Acharya Balkrishna
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Institute, Haridwar 249 401, India
- Department of Allied and Applied Sciences, University of Patanjali, Patanjali Yog Peeth, Haridwar 249 401, India
| | - Yashika Rustagi
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Institute, Haridwar 249 401, India
| | - Kunal Bhattacharya
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Institute, Haridwar 249 401, India
- Correspondence: (K.B.); (A.V.); Tel.: +91-1334-244107 (K.B. & A.V.); Fax: +91-1334-244805 (K.B. & A.V.)
| | - Anurag Varshney
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Institute, Haridwar 249 401, India
- Department of Allied and Applied Sciences, University of Patanjali, Patanjali Yog Peeth, Haridwar 249 401, India
- Correspondence: (K.B.); (A.V.); Tel.: +91-1334-244107 (K.B. & A.V.); Fax: +91-1334-244805 (K.B. & A.V.)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
A 3D-CNT micro-electrode array for zebrafish ECG study including directionality measurement and drug test. Biocybern Biomed Eng 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbe.2020.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
30
|
Zhao Y, Yun M, Nguyen SA, Tran M, Nguyen TP. In Vivo Surface Electrocardiography for Adult Zebrafish. J Vis Exp 2019. [PMID: 31424443 DOI: 10.3791/60011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The electrocardiogram waveforms of adult zebrafish and those of humans are remarkably similar. These electrocardiogram similarities enhance the value of zebrafish not only as a research model for human cardiac electrophysiology and myopathies but also as a surrogate model in high throughput pharmaceutical screening for potential cardiotoxicities to humans, such as QT prolongation. As such, in vivo electrocardiography for adult zebrafish is an electrical phenotyping tool that is necessary, if not indispensable, for cross-sectional or longitudinal in vivo electrophysiological characterizations. However, too often, the lack of a reliable, practical, and cost-effective recording method remains a major challenge preventing this in vivo diagnostic tool from becoming more readily accessible. Here, we describe a practical, straightforward approach to in vivo electrocardiography for adult zebrafish using a low-maintenance, cost-effective, and comprehensive system that yields consistent, reliable recordings. We illustrate our protocol using healthy adult male zebrafish of 12-18 months of age. We also introduce a rapid real-time interpretation strategy for quality validation to ensure data accuracy and robustness early in the electrocardiogram recording process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yali Zhao
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, the Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
| | - Morgan Yun
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, the Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
| | - Sean A Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, the Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
| | - Michelle Tran
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, the Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
| | - Thao P Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, the Cardiovascular Research Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA;
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Xu S, Liu C, Xie F, Tian L, Manno SH, Manno FAM, Fallah S, Pelster B, Tse G, Cheng SH. Excessive inflammation impairs heart regeneration in zebrafish breakdance mutant after cryoinjury. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 89:117-126. [PMID: 30928664 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2019.03.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation plays a crucial role in cardiac regeneration. Numerous advantages, including a robust regenerative ability, make the zebrafish a popular model to study cardiovascular diseases. The zebrafish breakdance (bre) mutant shares several key features with human long QT syndrome that predisposes to ventricular arrhythmias and sudden death. However, how inflammatory response and tissue regeneration following cardiac damage occur in bre mutant is unknown. Here, we have found that inflammatory response related genes were markedly expressed in the injured heart and excessive leukocyte accumulation occurred in the injured area of the bre mutant zebrafish. Furthermore, bre mutant zebrafish exhibited aberrant apoptosis and impaired heart regenerative ability after ventricular cryoinjury. Mild dosages of anti-inflammatory or prokinetic drugs protected regenerative cells from undergoing aberrant apoptosis and promoted heart regeneration in bre mutant zebrafish. We propose that immune or prokinetic therapy could be a potential therapeutic regimen for patients with genetic long QT syndrome who suffers from myocardial infarction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shisan Xu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Chichi Liu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Fangjing Xie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Li Tian
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Sinai Hc Manno
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Francis A M Manno
- Department of Physics, College of Science and Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Samane Fallah
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Bernd Pelster
- Institut für Zoologie, Universität Innsbruck, Center for Molecular Biosciences, Universität Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Gary Tse
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China; Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China; Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, PR China.
| | - Shuk Han Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP) at City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Science and Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Benslimane FM, Alser M, Zakaria ZZ, Sharma A, Abdelrahman HA, Yalcin HC. Adaptation of a Mice Doppler Echocardiography Platform to Measure Cardiac Flow Velocities for Embryonic Chicken and Adult Zebrafish. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2019; 7:96. [PMID: 31139625 PMCID: PMC6527763 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2019.00096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ultrasonography is the most widely used imaging technique in cardiovascular medicine. In this technique, a piezoelectric crystal produces, sends, and receives high frequency ultrasound waves to the body to create an image of internal organs. It enables practical real time visualization in a non-invasive manner, making the modality especially useful to image dynamic cardiac structures. In the last few decades, echocardiography has been applied to in vivo cardiac disease models, mainly to rodents. While clinical echocardiography platforms can be used for relatively large animals such as pigs and rats, specialized systems are needed for smaller species. Theoretically, as the size of the imaged sample decreases, the frequency of the ultrasound transducer needed to image the sample increases. There are multiple modes of echocardiography imaging. In Doppler mode, erythrocytes blood flow velocities are measured from the frequency shift of the sent ultrasound waves compared to received echoes. Recorded data are then used to calculate cardiac function parameters such as cardiac output, as well as the hemodynamic shear stress levels in the heart and blood vessels. The multi-mode (i.e., b-mode, m-mode, Pulsed Doppler, Tissue Doppler, etc.) small animal ultrasound systems in the market can be used for most in vivo cardiac disease models including mice, embryonic chick and zebrafish. These systems are also associated with significant costs. Alternatively, there are more economical single-mode echocardiography platforms. However, these are originally built for mice studies and they need to be tested and evaluated for smaller experimental models. We recently adapted a mice Doppler echocardiography system to measure cardiac flow velocities for adult zebrafish and embryonic chicken. We successfully assessed cardiac function and hemodynamic shear stress for normal as well as for diseased embryonic chicken and zebrafish. In this paper, we will present our detailed protocols for Doppler flow measurements and further cardiac function analysis on these models using the setup. The protocols will involve detailed steps for animal stabilization, probe orientation for specific measurements, data acquisition, and data analysis. We believe this information will help cardiac researchers to establish similar echocardiography platforms in their labs in a practical and economical manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maha Alser
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Zain Z Zakaria
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Science, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Anju Sharma
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Song J, Qiao L, Ji L, Ren B, Hu Y, Zhao R, Ren Z. Toxic responses of zebrafish (Danio rerio) to thallium and deltamethrin characterized in the electrocardiogram. CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 212:1085-1094. [PMID: 30286538 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Revised: 09/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The electrocardiogram (ECG) has been widely used to objectively address the physical condition as an index of stress. Though a numerous accounts of investigations on aquatic organisms' ECGs have been made, differentiation of ECG parameters in responding to specific toxic chemicals has not been extensively studied. In this research, it is hypothesized that zebrafish (Danio rerio) ECG parameters would differently respond to different types of pollutants, a heavy metal, thallium (Tl, 0.10 and 13.00 μg/L) and an organic chemical, deltamethrin (DM, 0.52 and 2.00 μg/L). Based on the SOM training and statistical analyses, QRS complex could be specified as an indicator of Tl stress, while QT interval might be used to evaluate DM stress. Pearson correlation analysis indicated that QRS complex and QT interval were significantly associated with Tl stress (r = 0.854, p = 0.0002) and DM stress (r = 0.792, p = 0.001), respectively. QRS complex and QT interval had the highest R2, the minimum of SSE and the lowest AIC value in Tl and DM treatments, respectively. Bases on the current experimental results and previous reports, QRS complex and QT interval could be considered as a specific indicator of Tl and DM disturbances in the environment, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Song
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, Ji'nan, 250014, People's Republic of China
| | - Linlin Qiao
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, Ji'nan, 250014, People's Republic of China
| | - Lizhen Ji
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, Ji'nan, 250014, People's Republic of China
| | - Baixiang Ren
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, Ji'nan, 250014, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongyuan Hu
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, Ji'nan, 250014, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruibin Zhao
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, Ji'nan, 250014, People's Republic of China
| | - Zongming Ren
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, Shandong Normal University, Ji'nan, 250014, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Lin MH, Chou HC, Chen YF, Liu W, Lee CC, Liu LYM, Chuang YJ. Development of a rapid and economic in vivo electrocardiogram platform for cardiovascular drug assay and electrophysiology research in adult zebrafish. Sci Rep 2018; 8:15986. [PMID: 30375400 PMCID: PMC6207748 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33577-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Zebrafish is a popular and favorable model organism for cardiovascular research, with an increasing number of studies implementing functional assays in the adult stage. For example, the application of electrocardiography (ECG) in adult zebrafish has emerged as an important tool for cardiac pathophysiology, toxicity, and chemical screen studies. However, few laboratories are able to perform such functional analyses due to the high cost and limited availability of a convenient in vivo ECG recording system. In this study, an inexpensive ECG recording platform and operation protocol that has been optimized for adult zebrafish ECG research was developed. The core hardware includes integration of a ready-to-use portable ECG kit with a set of custom-made needle electrode probes. A combined anesthetic formula of MS-222 and isoflurane was first tested to determine the optimal assay conditions to minimize the interference to zebrafish cardiac physiology under sedation. For demonstration, we treated wild-type zebrafish with different pharmacological agents known to affect cardiac rhythms in humans. Conserved electrophysiological responses to these drugs were induced in adult zebrafish and recorded in real time. This economic ECG platform has the potential to facilitate teaching and training in cardiac electrophysiology with adult zebrafish and to promote future translational applications in cardiovascular medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min-Hsuan Lin
- Department of Medical Science & Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Huang-Cheng Chou
- Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Fu Chen
- Department of Medical Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Wangta Liu
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 80708, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chun Lee
- Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan
| | - Lawrence Yu-Min Liu
- Department of Medical Science & Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan. .,Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Hsinchu Mackay Memorial Hospital, Hsinchu, 30071, Taiwan.
| | - Yung-Jen Chuang
- Department of Medical Science & Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) mediate leukocyte recruitment during the inflammatory phase of zebrafish heart regeneration. Sci Rep 2018; 8:7199. [PMID: 29740050 PMCID: PMC5940908 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-25490-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
In zebrafish, the role of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the inflammatory phase of heart regeneration following cryoinjury remains poorly understood. Here, we demonstrated an increase in MMP enzymatic activity and elevated expression of mmp9 and mmp13 in the injured area (IA) of hearts from as early as 1 day post-cryoinjury (dpc). Treatment with the broad-spectrum MMP inhibitor, GM6001, during the first week after cryoinjury resulted in impaired heart regeneration, as indicated by the larger scar and reduced numbers of proliferating cardiomyocytes. GM6001 also significantly reduced the number of leukocytes to the IA at 0.5 dpc to 4 dpc. Specific inhibition of both MMP-9 and MMP-13 also resulted in impaired regeneration and leukocyte recruitment. However, chemokine rescue with recombinant CXCL8 and CCL2 restored the recruitment of macrophages and the cardiac regenerative capability in GM6001-treated fish. MMP-9 and MMP-13 cleaved zebrafish CXCL8 at the same site, and the truncated form was more chemotactic than the intact form. In contrast, CCL2 did not have an MMP-9 or MMP-13 cleavage site. Together, these data suggest that MMPs might play a key role in the inflammatory phase of heart regeneration in zebrafish, by mediating leukocyte recruitment via the activation of chemokines.
Collapse
|
36
|
A 3D-Printed Sensor for Monitoring Biosignals in Small Animals. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE ENGINEERING 2017; 2017:9053764. [PMID: 29209491 PMCID: PMC5676486 DOI: 10.1155/2017/9053764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Although additive manufacturing technologies, also known as 3D printing, were first introduced in the 1980s, they have recently gained remarkable popularity owing to decreased costs. 3D printing has already emerged as a viable technology in many industries; in particular, it is a good replacement for microfabrication technology. Microfabrication technology usually requires expensive clean room equipment and skilled engineers; however, 3D printing can reduce both cost and time dramatically. Although 3D printing technology has started to emerge into microfabrication manufacturing and medical applications, it is typically limited to creating mechanical structures such as hip prosthesis or dental implants. There have been increased interests in wearable devices and the critical part of such wearable devices is the sensing part to detect biosignals noninvasively. In this paper, we have built a 3D-printed sensor that can measure electroencephalogram and electrocardiogram from zebrafish. Despite measuring biosignals noninvasively from zebrafish has been known to be difficult due to that it is an underwater creature, we were able to successfully obtain electrophysiological information using the 3D-printed sensor. This 3D printing technique can accelerate the development of simple noninvasive sensors using affordable equipment and provide an economical solution to physiologists who are unfamiliar with complicated microfabrication techniques.
Collapse
|
37
|
MacDonald EA, Stoyek MR, Rose RA, Quinn TA. Intrinsic regulation of sinoatrial node function and the zebrafish as a model of stretch effects on pacemaking. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 130:198-211. [PMID: 28743586 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2017.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Excitation of the heart occurs in a specialised region known as the sinoatrial node (SAN). Tight regulation of SAN function is essential for the maintenance of normal heart rhythm and the response to (patho-)physiological changes. The SAN is regulated by extrinsic (central nervous system) and intrinsic (neurons, peptides, mechanics) factors. The positive chronotropic response to stretch in particular is essential for beat-by-beat adaptation to changes in hemodynamic load. Yet, the mechanism of this stretch response is unknown, due in part to the lack of an appropriate experimental model for targeted investigations. We have been investigating the zebrafish as a model for the study of intrinsic regulation of SAN function. In this paper, we first briefly review current knowledge of the principal components of extrinsic and intrinsic SAN regulation, derived primarily from experiments in mammals, followed by a description of the zebrafish as a novel experimental model for studies of intrinsic SAN regulation. This mini-review is followed by an original investigation of the response of the zebrafish isolated SAN to controlled stretch. Stretch causes an immediate and continuous increase in beating rate in the zebrafish isolated SAN. This increase reaches a maximum part way through a period of sustained stretch, with the total change dependent on the magnitude and direction of stretch. This is comparable to what occurs in isolated SAN from most mammals (including human), suggesting that the zebrafish is a novel experimental model for the study of mechanisms involved in the intrinsic regulation of SAN function by mechanical effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eilidh A MacDonald
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Matthew R Stoyek
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Robert A Rose
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - T Alexander Quinn
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada; School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Vargas RA. Effects of GABA, Neural Regulation, and Intrinsic Cardiac Factors on Heart Rate Variability in Zebrafish Larvae. Zebrafish 2017; 14:106-117. [DOI: 10.1089/zeb.2016.1365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Antonio Vargas
- Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Domnik NJ, Polymeropoulos ET, Elliott NG, Frappell PB, Fisher JT. Automated Non-invasive Video-Microscopy of Oyster Spat Heart Rate during Acute Temperature Change: Impact of Acclimation Temperature. Front Physiol 2016; 7:236. [PMID: 27445833 PMCID: PMC4916204 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2016.00236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We developed an automated, non-invasive method to detect real-time cardiac contraction in post-larval (1.1–1.7 mm length), juvenile oysters (i.e., oyster spat) via a fiber-optic trans-illumination system. The system is housed within a temperature-controlled chamber and video microscopy imaging of the heart was coupled with video edge-detection to measure cardiac contraction, inter-beat interval, and heart rate (HR). We used the method to address the hypothesis that cool acclimation (10°C vs. 22°C—Ta10 or Ta22, respectively; each n = 8) would preserve cardiac phenotype (assessed via HR variability, HRV analysis and maintained cardiac activity) during acute temperature changes. The temperature ramp (TR) protocol comprised 2°C steps (10 min/experimental temperature, Texp) from 22°C to 10°C to 22°C. HR was related to Texp in both acclimation groups. Spat became asystolic at low temperatures, particularly Ta22 spat (Ta22: 8/8 vs. Ta10: 3/8 asystolic at Texp = 10°C). The rate of HR decrease during cooling was less in Ta10 vs. Ta22 spat when asystole was included in analysis (P = 0.026). Time-domain HRV was inversely related to temperature and elevated in Ta10 vs. Ta22 spat (P < 0.001), whereas a lack of defined peaks in spectral density precluded frequency-domain analysis. Application of the method during an acute cooling challenge revealed that cool temperature acclimation preserved active cardiac contraction in oyster spat and increased time-domain HRV responses, whereas warm acclimation enhanced asystole. These physiologic changes highlight the need for studies of mechanisms, and have translational potential for oyster aquaculture practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolle J Domnik
- Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Elias T Polymeropoulos
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Nicholas G Elliott
- Commonwealth Science and Industry Research Organization, Agriculture Flagship Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | | | - John T Fisher
- Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's UniversityKingston, ON, Canada; Medicine, Division of Respirology, Queen's UniversityKingston, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|