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Zathar Z, Shah N, Desai N, Patel PA. Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy: Current Updates and Future Challenges. Rev Cardiovasc Med 2024; 25:208. [PMID: 39076315 PMCID: PMC11270059 DOI: 10.31083/j.rcm2506208] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) epitomises a genetic anomaly hallmarked by a relentless fibro-fatty transmogrification of cardiac myocytes. Initially typified as a right ventricular-centric disease, contemporary observations elucidate a frequent occurrence of biventricular and left-dominant presentations. The diagnostic labyrinth of ACM emerges from its clinical and imaging properties, often indistinguishable from other cardiomyopathies. Precision in diagnosis, however, is paramount and unlocks the potential for early therapeutic interventions and vital cascade screening for at-risk individuals. Adherence to the criteria established by the 2010 task force remains the cornerstone of ACM diagnosis, demanding a multifaceted assessment incorporating electrophysiological, imaging, genetic, and histological data. Reflecting the evolution of our understanding, these criteria have undergone several revisions to encapsulate the expanding spectrum of ACM phenotypes. This review seeks to crystallise the genetic foundation of ACM, delineate its clinical and radiographic manifestations, and offer an analytical perspective on the current diagnostic criteria. By synthesising these elements, we aim to furnish practitioners with a strategic, evidence-based algorithm to accurately diagnose ACM, thereby optimising patient management and mitigating the intricate challenges of this multifaceted disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zafraan Zathar
- Department of Cardiology, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, WR5 1DD Worcester, UK
| | - Nihit Shah
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, WV10 0QP Wolverhampton, UK
| | - Nimai Desai
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Trust, B15 2GW Birmingham, UK
| | - Peysh A Patel
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Trust, B15 2GW Birmingham, UK
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2
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Gui LK, Liu HJ, Jin LJ, Peng XC. Krüpple-like factors in cardiomyopathy: emerging player and therapeutic opportunities. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1342173. [PMID: 38516000 PMCID: PMC10955087 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1342173] [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: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiomyopathy, a heterogeneous pathological condition characterized by changes in cardiac structure or function, represents a significant risk factor for the prevalence and mortality of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Research conducted over the years has led to the modification of definition and classification of cardiomyopathy. Herein, we reviewed seven of the most common types of cardiomyopathies, including Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC), diabetic cardiomyopathy, Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), desmin-associated cardiomyopathy, Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), Ischemic Cardiomyopathy (ICM), and obesity cardiomyopathy, focusing on their definitions, epidemiology, and influencing factors. Cardiomyopathies manifest in various ways ranging from microscopic alterations in cardiomyocytes, to tissue hypoperfusion, cardiac failure, and arrhythmias caused by electrical conduction abnormalities. As pleiotropic Transcription Factors (TFs), the Krüppel-Like Factors (KLFs), a family of zinc finger proteins, are involved in regulating the setting and development of cardiomyopathies, and play critical roles in associated biological processes, including Oxidative Stress (OS), inflammatory reactions, myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis, and cellular autophagy and apoptosis, particularly in diabetic cardiomyopathy. However, research into KLFs in cardiomyopathy is still in its early stages, and the pathophysiologic mechanisms of some KLF members in various types of cardiomyopathies remain unclear. This article reviews the roles and recent research advances in KLFs, specifically those targeting and regulating several cardiomyopathy-associated processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le-Kun Gui
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
- School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Huang-Jun Liu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Li-Jun Jin
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Xiao-Chun Peng
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
- Laboratory of Oncology, School of Basic Medicine, Center for Molecular Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
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Mistrulli R, Micolonghi C, Follesa F, Fabiani M, Pagannone E, D'Amati G, Giordano C, Caroselli S, Savio C, Germani A, Pizzuti A, Visco V, Petrucci S, Rubattu S, Piane M, Autore C. The role of genetic testing in suspected fulminant myocarditis: A case report. Mol Genet Metab Rep 2023; 37:101000. [PMID: 37662494 PMCID: PMC10470308 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgmr.2023.101000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
ACM is a rare hereditary heart disease characterized by a progressive fibro-fatty replacement of the myocardium that can affect either the right or the left ventricle or both. It is mainly caused by variants in the desmosome genes with autosomal dominant transmission and incomplete penetrance. The disease shows a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, including ventricular arrhythmias, HF and myocarditis. The latter is considered a 'hot phase' in the natural history of the disease and must therefore be distinguished from the isolated AM, which is frequently due to viral infections. Our case report is an example of how an AM, as the first manifestation of the disease, helped to reach a diagnosis of ACM through the genetic analysis. In fact, the multi-parametric investigation, which also included CMR and EMB, revealed controversial aspects that led us to perform the genetic test. The latter revealed a heterozygous pathogenic variant in the PKP2 that was considered definitive proof of ACM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Mistrulli
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Micolonghi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Follesa
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Fabiani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
- ALTAMEDICA, Human Genetics, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Erika Pagannone
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia D'Amati
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Giordano
- Department of Radiological, Oncological and Pathological Sciences, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Aldo Germani
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Pizzuti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Mendel Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Visco
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Petrucci
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Mendel Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Speranza Rubattu
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, IS 86077, Italy
| | - Maria Piane
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00189 Rome, Italy
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Wang Y, Jia H, Song J. Accurate Classification of Non-ischemic Cardiomyopathy. Curr Cardiol Rep 2023; 25:1299-1317. [PMID: 37721634 PMCID: PMC10651539 DOI: 10.1007/s11886-023-01944-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article aims to review the accurate classification of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy, including the methods, basis, subtype characteristics, and prognosis, especially the similarities and differences between different classifications. RECENT FINDINGS Non-ischemic cardiomyopathy refers to a myocardial disease that excludes coronary artery disease or ischemic injury and has a variety of etiologies and high incidence. Recent studies suggest that traditional classification methods based on primary/mixed/acquired or genetic/non-genetic cannot meet the precise needs of contemporary clinical management. This article systematically describes the history of classifications of cardiomyopathy and presents etiological and genetic differences between cardiomyopathies. The accurate classification is described from the perspective of morphology, function, and genomics in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, restrictive cardiomyopathy, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, left ventricular noncompaction, and partially acquired cardiomyopathy. The different clinical characteristics and treatment needs of these cardiomyopathies are elaborated. Some single-gene mutant cardiomyopathies have unique phenotypes, and some cardiomyopathies have mixed phenotypes. These special classifications require personalized precision treatment, which is worthy of independent research. This article describes recent advances in the accurate classification of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy from clinical phenotypes and causative genes, discusses the advantages and usage scenarios of each classification, compares the differences in prognosis and patient management needs of different subtypes, and summarizes common methods and new exploration directions for accurate classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Preclinical Research and Evaluation for Cardiovascular Implant Materials, Animal Experimental Centre, National Centre for Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiac Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Hao Jia
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Preclinical Research and Evaluation for Cardiovascular Implant Materials, Animal Experimental Centre, National Centre for Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiac Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Jiangping Song
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Preclinical Research and Evaluation for Cardiovascular Implant Materials, Animal Experimental Centre, National Centre for Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiac Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China.
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Bueno-Beti C, Asimaki A. Cheek-Pro-Heart: What Can the Buccal Mucosa Do for Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy? Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041207. [PMID: 37189825 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a heart muscle disease associated with ventricular arrhythmias and a high risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). Although the disease was described over 40 years ago, its diagnosis is still difficult. Several studies have identified a set of five proteins (plakoglobin, Cx43, Nav1.5, SAP97 and GSK3β), which are consistently re-distributed in myocardial samples from ACM patients. Not all protein shifts are specific to ACM, but their combination has provided us with a molecular signature for the disease, which has greatly aided post-mortem diagnosis of SCD victims. The use of this signature, however, was heretofore restricted in living patients, as the analysis requires a heart sample. Recent studies have shown that buccal cells behave similarly to the heart in terms of protein re-localization. Protein shifts are associated with disease onset, deterioration and favorable response to anti-arrhythmic therapy. Accordingly, buccal cells can be used as a surrogate for the myocardium to aid diagnosis, risk stratification and even monitor response to pharmaceutical interventions. Buccal cells can also be kept in culture, hence providing an ex vivo model from the patient, which can offer insights into the mechanisms of disease pathogenesis, including drug response. This review summarizes how the cheek can aid the heart in the battle against ACM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Bueno-Beti
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Angeliki Asimaki
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
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Peretto G, Sommariva E, Di Resta C, Rabino M, Villatore A, Lazzeroni D, Sala S, Pompilio G, Cooper LT. Myocardial Inflammation as a Manifestation of Genetic Cardiomyopathies: From Bedside to the Bench. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13040646. [PMID: 37189393 DOI: 10.3390/biom13040646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Over recent years, preclinical and clinical evidence has implicated myocardial inflammation (M-Infl) in the pathophysiology and phenotypes of traditionally genetic cardiomyopathies. M-Infl resembling myocarditis on imaging and histology occurs frequently as a clinical manifestation of classically genetic cardiac diseases, including dilated and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy. The emerging role of M-Infl in disease pathophysiology is leading to the identification of druggable targets for molecular treatment of the inflammatory process and a new paradigm in the field of cardiomyopathies. Cardiomyopathies constitute a leading cause of heart failure and arrhythmic sudden death in the young population. The aim of this review is to present, from bedside to bench, the current state of the art about the genetic basis of M-Infl in nonischemic cardiomyopathies of the dilated and arrhythmogenic spectrum in order to prompt future research towards the identification of novel mechanisms and treatment targets, with the ultimate goal of lowering disease morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Peretto
- Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology and Arrhythmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Sommariva
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Di Resta
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy
- Genomic Unit for the Diagnosis of Human Pathologies, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Martina Rabino
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Villatore
- Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology and Arrhythmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Simone Sala
- Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology and Arrhythmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Giulio Pompilio
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20139 Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Leslie T Cooper
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA
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7
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Protonotarios A, Bariani R, Cappelletto C, Pavlou M, García-García A, Cipriani A, Protonotarios I, Rivas A, Wittenberg R, Graziosi M, Xylouri Z, Larrañaga-Moreira JM, de Luca A, Celeghin R, Pilichou K, Bakalakos A, Lopes LR, Savvatis K, Stolfo D, Dal Ferro M, Merlo M, Basso C, Freire JL, Rodriguez-Palomares JF, Kubo T, Ripoll-Vera T, Barriales-Villa R, Antoniades L, Mogensen J, Garcia-Pavia P, Wahbi K, Biagini E, Anastasakis A, Tsatsopoulou A, Zorio E, Gimeno JR, Garcia-Pinilla JM, Syrris P, Sinagra G, Bauce B, Elliott PM. Importance of genotype for risk stratification in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy using the 2019 ARVC risk calculator. Eur Heart J 2022; 43:3053-3067. [PMID: 35766183 PMCID: PMC9392652 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS To study the impact of genotype on the performance of the 2019 risk model for arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). METHODS AND RESULTS The study cohort comprised 554 patients with a definite diagnosis of ARVC and no history of sustained ventricular arrhythmia (VA). During a median follow-up of 6.0 (3.1,12.5) years, 100 patients (18%) experienced the primary VA outcome (sustained ventricular tachycardia, appropriate implantable cardioverter defibrillator intervention, aborted sudden cardiac arrest, or sudden cardiac death) corresponding to an annual event rate of 2.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.9-3.3]. Risk estimates for VA using the 2019 ARVC risk model showed reasonable discriminative ability but with overestimation of risk. The ARVC risk model was compared in four gene groups: PKP2 (n = 118, 21%); desmoplakin (DSP) (n = 79, 14%); other desmosomal (n = 59, 11%); and gene elusive (n = 160, 29%). Discrimination and calibration were highest for PKP2 and lowest for the gene-elusive group. Univariable analyses revealed the variable performance of individual clinical risk markers in the different gene groups, e.g. right ventricular dimensions and systolic function are significant risk markers in PKP2 but not in DSP patients and the opposite is true for left ventricular systolic function. CONCLUSION The 2019 ARVC risk model performs reasonably well in gene-positive ARVC (particularly for PKP2) but is more limited in gene-elusive patients. Genotype should be included in future risk models for ARVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Protonotarios
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, London, UK
- Inherited Cardiovascular Disease Unit, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - Riccardo Bariani
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Cappelletto
- Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Department, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Menelaos Pavlou
- Department of Statistical Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alba García-García
- Inherited Cardiac Diseases Unit (CSUR-ERN), Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Alberto Cipriani
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Adrian Rivas
- Heart Failure and Inherited Cardiac Diseases Unit, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Maddalena Graziosi
- Cardiology Unit, St Orsola Hospital, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - José M Larrañaga-Moreira
- Unidad de Cardiopatías Familiares, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña, Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), Universidade da Coruña, CIBERCV, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Antonio de Luca
- Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Department, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Rudy Celeghin
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Kalliopi Pilichou
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Athanasios Bakalakos
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, London, UK
- Inherited Cardiovascular Disease Unit, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, UK
| | - Luis Rocha Lopes
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, London, UK
- Inherited Cardiovascular Disease Unit, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, UK
- European Reference Networks for rare, low prevalence and complex diseases of the heart (ERN GUARD-Heart)
| | - Konstantinos Savvatis
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, London, UK
- Inherited Cardiovascular Disease Unit, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, UK
- European Reference Networks for rare, low prevalence and complex diseases of the heart (ERN GUARD-Heart)
| | - Davide Stolfo
- Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Department, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Matteo Dal Ferro
- Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Department, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Merlo
- Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Department, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Cristina Basso
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Javier Limeres Freire
- European Reference Networks for rare, low prevalence and complex diseases of the heart (ERN GUARD-Heart)
- Unidad de Cardiopatías Familiares, Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Network Research on Cardiovascular Diseases (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose F Rodriguez-Palomares
- European Reference Networks for rare, low prevalence and complex diseases of the heart (ERN GUARD-Heart)
- Unidad de Cardiopatías Familiares, Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Network Research on Cardiovascular Diseases (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Toru Kubo
- Department of Cardiology and Geriatrics, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Japan
| | - Tomas Ripoll-Vera
- Inherited Cardiovascular Diseases Unit, Son Llatzer University Hospital & IdISBa, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Roberto Barriales-Villa
- Unidad de Cardiopatías Familiares, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña, Servizo Galego de Saúde (SERGAS), Universidade da Coruña, CIBERCV, A Coruña, Spain
- European Reference Networks for rare, low prevalence and complex diseases of the heart (ERN GUARD-Heart)
| | - Loizos Antoniades
- Cyprus Institute of Cardiomyopathies and Inherited Cardiovascular Diseases, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | - Pablo Garcia-Pavia
- Heart Failure and Inherited Cardiac Diseases Unit, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- European Reference Networks for rare, low prevalence and complex diseases of the heart (ERN GUARD-Heart)
- Centre for Biomedical Network Research on Cardiovascular Diseases (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Karim Wahbi
- Cardiology Department, AP-HP, Cochin Hospital, FILNEMUS, Centre de Référence de Pathologie Neuromusculaire Nord/Est/Île-de-France, Paris-Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité University, Paris, France
| | - Elena Biagini
- Cardiology Unit, St Orsola Hospital, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Aris Anastasakis
- Unit of Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Onassis Cardiac Surgery Centre, Athens, Greece
| | - Adalena Tsatsopoulou
- Nikos Protonotarios Medical Centre, Naxos, Greece
- Unit of Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Onassis Cardiac Surgery Centre, Athens, Greece
| | - Esther Zorio
- Centre for Biomedical Network Research on Cardiovascular Diseases (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
- Inherited Cardiac Diseases and Sudden Death Unit, Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, CaFaMuSMe Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan R Gimeno
- Inherited Cardiac Diseases Unit (CSUR-ERN), Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
- European Reference Networks for rare, low prevalence and complex diseases of the heart (ERN GUARD-Heart)
- Centre for Biomedical Network Research on Cardiovascular Diseases (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jose Manuel Garcia-Pinilla
- Centre for Biomedical Network Research on Cardiovascular Diseases (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
- Heart Failure and Familial Heart Diseases Unit, Cardiology Service, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria, IBIMA, Málaga, Spain
| | - Petros Syrris
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Gianfranco Sinagra
- Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular Department, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Barbara Bauce
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Perry M Elliott
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, London, UK
- Inherited Cardiovascular Disease Unit, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London, UK
- European Reference Networks for rare, low prevalence and complex diseases of the heart (ERN GUARD-Heart)
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8
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Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2022; 8:533-553. [PMID: 35450611 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) encompasses a group of conditions characterized by right ventricular fibrofatty infiltration, with a predominant arrhythmic presentation. First described in the late 1970s and early 1980s, it is now frequently recognized to have biventricular involvement. The prevalence is ∼1:2,000 to 1:5,000, depending on geographic location, and it has a slight male predominance. The diagnosis of ARVC is determined on the basis of fulfillment of task force criteria incorporating electrophysiological parameters, cardiac imaging findings, genetic factors, and histopathologic features. Risk stratification of patients with ARVC aims to identify those who are at increased risk of sudden cardiac death or sustained ventricular tachycardia. Factors including age, sex, electrophysiological features, and cardiac imaging investigations all contribute to risk stratification. The current management of ARVC includes exercise restriction, β-blocker therapy, consideration for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator insertion, and catheter ablation. This review summarizes our current understanding of ARVC and provides clinicians with a practical approach to diagnosis and management.
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9
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Bueno-Beti C, Asimaki A. Histopathological Features and Protein Markers of Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:746321. [PMID: 34950711 PMCID: PMC8688541 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.746321] [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: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a heritable heart muscle disease characterized by syncope, palpitations, ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD) especially in young individuals. It is estimated to affect 1:5,000 individuals in the general population, with >60% of patients bearing one or more mutations in genes coding for desmosomal proteins. Desmosomes are intercellular adhesion junctions, which in cardiac myocytes reside within the intercalated disks (IDs), the areas of mechanical and electrical cell-cell coupling. Histologically, ACM is characterized by fibrofatty replacement of cardiac myocytes predominantly in the right ventricular free wall though left ventricular and biventricular forms have also been described. The disease is characterized by age-related progression, vast phenotypic manifestation and incomplete penetrance, making proband diagnosis and risk stratification of family members particularly challenging. Key protein redistribution at the IDs may represent a specific diagnostic marker but its applicability is still limited by the need for a myocardial sample. Specific markers of ACM in surrogate tissues, such as the blood and the buccal epithelium, may represent a non-invasive, safe and inexpensive alternative for diagnosis and cascade screening. In this review, we shall cover the most relevant biomarkers so far reported and discuss their potential impact on the diagnosis, prognosis and management of ACM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angeliki Asimaki
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
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10
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Parker LE, Landstrom AP. The clinical utility of pediatric cardiomyopathy genetic testing: From diagnosis to a precision medicine-based approach to care. PROGRESS IN PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY 2021; 62. [PMID: 34776723 DOI: 10.1016/j.ppedcard.2021.101413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Pediatric-onset cardiomyopathies are rare yet cause significant morbidity and mortality in affected children. Genetic testing has a major role in the clinical evaluation of pediatric-onset cardiomyopathies, and identification of a variant in an associated gene can be used to confirm the clinical diagnosis and exclude syndromic causes that may warrant different treatment strategies. Further, risk-predictive testing of first-degree relatives can assess who is at-risk of disease and requires continued clinical follow-up. Aim of Review In this review, we seek to describe the current role of genetic testing in the clinical diagnosis and management of patients and families with the five major cardiomyopathies. Further, we highlight the ongoing development of precision-based approaches to diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. Key Scientific Concepts of Review Emerging application of genotype-phenotype correlations opens the door for genetics to guide a precision medicine-based approach to prognosis and potentially for therapies. Despite advances in our understanding of the genetic etiology of cardiomyopathy and increased accessibility of clinical genetic testing, not all pediatric cardiomyopathy patients have a clear genetic explanation for their disease. Expanded genomic studies are needed to understand the cause of disease in these patients, improve variant classification and genotype-driven prognostic predictions, and ultimately develop truly disease preventing treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Parker
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Andrew P Landstrom
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States.,Department of Cell Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
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11
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Rolland T, Badenco N, Maupain C, Duthoit G, Waintraub X, Laredo M, Himbert C, Frank R, Hidden-Lucet F, Gandjbakhch E. Safety and efficacy of flecainide associated with beta-blockers in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. Europace 2021; 24:278-284. [PMID: 34459901 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euab182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is an inherited cardiomyopathy associated with a high risk of ventricular arrhythmia (VA). Current guidelines recommend beta-blockers as first-line medical therapy and if ineffective, sotalol or amiodarone. We describe our experience, as a tertiary centre for ARVC, with the effectiveness and tolerance of flecainide in addition to beta-blockers to prevent VA in ARVC. METHODS AND RESULTS We retrospectively included 100 consecutive ARVC patients who received flecainide with beta-blockers between May 1999 and November 2017. Treatment persistence and related side effects were assessed, as was VA-free survival on treatment, 24-h Holter monitoring and programmed ventricular stimulation (PVS) off- and on-treatment. Tolerance was good, with 10% flecainide discontinuations (lack of efficacy in six, atrial fibrillation in one, and side effects in three). No Brugada-induced electrocardiography pattern on flecainide or haemodynamic impairment was reported. Premature ventricular contraction burden at 24-h Holter monitoring was significantly decreased under treatment [median 415 (interquartile range, IQR 97-730) vs. 2370 (1572-3400) at baseline, P < 0.0001, n = 46]. Among the 33 patients with PVS under treatment, PVS was positive in 40% on-treatment vs. 94% off-treatment (P < 0.001). During a median follow-up of 47 months (IQR 23-73), 22 patients presented sustained VA on treatment, corresponding to an event rate of 5% [95% confidence interval (CI) (0.6-9)] at 1 year and 25% [95% CI (14-35)] at 5 years under treatment. No patient died. CONCLUSION This study suggests that flecainide and beta-blockers association is complementary to implantable cardioverter-defibrillator and catheter ablation and is safe for treating persistent symptomatic VA in patients with ARVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Rolland
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,APHP, Pitié-Salpêtriére University Hospital, Institute of Cardiology, Paris, France.,Centre de Référence des Maladies Cardiaques Héréditaires, Paris, France.,Action Coeur Study Groupe, Paris, France.,Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Badenco
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,APHP, Pitié-Salpêtriére University Hospital, Institute of Cardiology, Paris, France.,Centre de Référence des Maladies Cardiaques Héréditaires, Paris, France.,Action Coeur Study Groupe, Paris, France.,Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Carole Maupain
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,APHP, Pitié-Salpêtriére University Hospital, Institute of Cardiology, Paris, France.,Centre de Référence des Maladies Cardiaques Héréditaires, Paris, France.,Action Coeur Study Groupe, Paris, France.,Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France.,APHP, Pitié-Salpêtriére University Hospital, Department of Genetics, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Duthoit
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,APHP, Pitié-Salpêtriére University Hospital, Institute of Cardiology, Paris, France.,Centre de Référence des Maladies Cardiaques Héréditaires, Paris, France.,Action Coeur Study Groupe, Paris, France.,Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Xavier Waintraub
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,APHP, Pitié-Salpêtriére University Hospital, Institute of Cardiology, Paris, France.,Centre de Référence des Maladies Cardiaques Héréditaires, Paris, France.,Action Coeur Study Groupe, Paris, France.,Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Mikael Laredo
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,APHP, Pitié-Salpêtriére University Hospital, Institute of Cardiology, Paris, France.,Centre de Référence des Maladies Cardiaques Héréditaires, Paris, France.,Action Coeur Study Groupe, Paris, France.,Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Caroline Himbert
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,APHP, Pitié-Salpêtriére University Hospital, Institute of Cardiology, Paris, France.,Centre de Référence des Maladies Cardiaques Héréditaires, Paris, France.,Action Coeur Study Groupe, Paris, France.,Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Robert Frank
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,APHP, Pitié-Salpêtriére University Hospital, Institute of Cardiology, Paris, France.,Centre de Référence des Maladies Cardiaques Héréditaires, Paris, France.,Action Coeur Study Groupe, Paris, France.,Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Francoise Hidden-Lucet
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,APHP, Pitié-Salpêtriére University Hospital, Institute of Cardiology, Paris, France.,Centre de Référence des Maladies Cardiaques Héréditaires, Paris, France.,Action Coeur Study Groupe, Paris, France.,Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France
| | - Estelle Gandjbakhch
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Paris, France.,APHP, Pitié-Salpêtriére University Hospital, Institute of Cardiology, Paris, France.,Centre de Référence des Maladies Cardiaques Héréditaires, Paris, France.,Action Coeur Study Groupe, Paris, France.,Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (ICAN), Paris, France.,APHP, Pitié-Salpêtriére University Hospital, Department of Genetics, Paris, France
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12
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Biernacka EK, Borowiec K, Franaszczyk M, Szperl M, Rampazzo A, Woźniak O, Roszczynko M, Śmigielski W, Lutyńska A, Hoffman P. Pathogenic variants in plakophilin-2 gene (PKP2) are associated with better survival in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. J Appl Genet 2021; 62:613-620. [PMID: 34191271 PMCID: PMC8571136 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-021-00647-y] [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: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is mainly caused by mutations in genes encoding desmosomal proteins. Variants in plakophilin-2 gene (PKP2) are the most common cause of the disease, associated with conventional ARVC phenotype. The study aims to evaluate the prevalence of PKP2 variants and examine genotype-phenotype correlation in Polish ARVC cohort. All 56 ARVC patients fulfilling the current criteria were screened for genetic variants in PKP2 using denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography or next-generation sequencing. The clinical evaluation involved medical history, electrocardiogram, echocardiography, and follow-up. Ten variants (5 frameshift, 2 nonsense, 2 splicing, and 1 missense) in PKP2 were found in 28 (50%) cases. All truncating variants are classified as pathogenic/likely pathogenic, while the missense variant is classified as variant of uncertain significance. Patients carrying a PKP2 mutation were younger at diagnosis (p = 0.003), more often had negative T waves in V1-V3 (p = 0.01), had higher left ventricular ejection fraction (p = 0.04), and were less likely to present symptoms of heart failure (p = 0.01) and left ventricular damage progression (p = 0.04). Combined endpoint of death or heart transplant was more frequent in subgroup without PKP2 mutation (p = 0.03). Pathogenic variants in PKP2 are responsible for 50% of ARVC cases in the Polish population and are associated with a better prognosis. ARVC patients with PKP2 mutation are less likely to present left ventricular involvement and heart failure symptoms. Combined endpoint of death or heart transplant was less frequent in this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elżbieta K Biernacka
- Department of Congenital Heart Diseases, National Institute of Cardiology, Alpejska 42, 04-628, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karolina Borowiec
- Department of Congenital Heart Diseases, National Institute of Cardiology, Alpejska 42, 04-628, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Maria Franaszczyk
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Medical Biology, National Institute of Cardiology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Szperl
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Medical Biology, National Institute of Cardiology, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Olgierd Woźniak
- Department of Congenital Heart Diseases, National Institute of Cardiology, Alpejska 42, 04-628, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Roszczynko
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Medical Biology, National Institute of Cardiology, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Anna Lutyńska
- Department of Medical Biology, National Institute of Cardiology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Hoffman
- Department of Congenital Heart Diseases, National Institute of Cardiology, Alpejska 42, 04-628, Warsaw, Poland
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13
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Cardiac Biomarkers and Autoantibodies in Endurance Athletes: Potential Similarities with Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy Pathogenic Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126500. [PMID: 34204386 PMCID: PMC8235133 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The “Extreme Exercise Hypothesis” states that when individuals perform training beyond the ideal exercise dose, a decline in the beneficial effects of physical activity occurs. This is due to significant changes in myocardial structure and function, such as hemodynamic alterations, cardiac chamber enlargement and hypertrophy, myocardial inflammation, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and conduction changes. In addition, an increased amount of circulating biomarkers of exercise-induced damage has been reported. Although these changes are often reversible, long-lasting cardiac damage may develop after years of intense physical exercise. Since several features of the athlete’s heart overlap with arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM), the syndrome of “exercise-induced ACM” has been postulated. Thus, the distinction between ACM and the athlete’s heart may be challenging. Recently, an autoimmune mechanism has been discovered in ACM patients linked to their characteristic junctional impairment. Since cardiac junctions are similarly impaired by intense physical activity due to the strong myocardial stretching, we propose in the present work the novel hypothesis of an autoimmune response in endurance athletes. This investigation may deepen the knowledge about the pathological remodeling and relative activated mechanisms induced by intense endurance exercise, potentially improving the early recognition of whom is actually at risk.
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14
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Bosman LP, Te Riele ASJM. Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy: a focused update on diagnosis and risk stratification. Heart 2021; 108:90-97. [PMID: 33990412 DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2021-319113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is an inherited cardiomyopathy characterised by fibrofatty replacement of predominantly the right ventricle and high risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Early diagnosis and accurate risk assessment are challenging yet essential for SCD prevention. This manuscript summarises the current state of the art on ARVC diagnosis and risk stratification. Improving the 2010 diagnostic criteria is an ongoing discussion. Several studies suggest that early diagnosis may be facilitated by including deformation imaging ('strain') for objective assessment of wall motion abnormalities, which was shown to have high sensitivity for preclinical disease. Adding fibrofatty replacement detected by late gadolinium enhancement or T1 mapping in cardiac MRI as criterion for diagnosis is increasingly suggested but requires more supporting evidence from consecutive patient cohorts. In addition to the traditional right-dominant ARVC, standard criteria for arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) and arrhythmogenic left ventricular cardiomyopathy (ALVC) are on the horizon. After diagnosis confirmation, the primary management goal is SCD prevention, for which an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator is the only proven therapy. Prior studies determined that younger age, male sex, previous (non-) sustained ventricular tachycardia, syncope, extent of T-wave inversion, frequent premature ectopic beats and lower biventricular ejection fraction are risk factors for subsequent events. Previous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator indication guidelines were however limited to three expert-opinion flow charts stratifying patients in risk groups. Now, two multivariable risk prediction models (arvcrisk.com) combine the abovementioned risk factors to estimate individual risks. Of note, both the flow charts and prediction models require clinical validation studies to determine which should be recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurens P Bosman
- Cardiology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,ICIN-Netherlands Heart Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anneline S J M Te Riele
- Cardiology, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands .,ICIN-Netherlands Heart Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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15
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Alimohamed MZ, Johansson LF, Posafalvi A, Boven LG, van Dijk KK, Walters L, Vos YJ, Westers H, Hoedemaekers YM, Sinke RJ, Sijmons RH, Sikkema-Raddatz B, Jongbloed JDH, van der Zwaag PA. Diagnostic yield of targeted next generation sequencing in 2002 Dutch cardiomyopathy patients. Int J Cardiol 2021; 332:99-104. [PMID: 33662488 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2021.02.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is increasingly used for clinical evaluation of cardiomyopathy patients as it allows for simultaneous screening of multiple cardiomyopathy-associated genes. Adding copy number variant (CNV) analysis of NGS data is not routine yet and may contribute to the diagnostic yield. OBJECTIVES Determine the diagnostic yield of our targeted NGS gene panel in routine clinical diagnostics of Dutch cardiomyopathy patients and explore the impact of exon CNVs on diagnostic yield. METHODS Patients (N = 2002) referred for clinical genetic analysis underwent diagnostic testing of 55-61 genes associated with cardiomyopathies. Samples were analyzed and evaluated for single nucleotide variants (SNVs), indels and CNVs. CNVs identified in the NGS data and suspected of being pathogenic based on type, size and location were confirmed by additional molecular tests. RESULTS A (likely) pathogenic (L)P variant was detected in 22.7% of patients, including 3 with CNVs and 25 where a variant was identified in a gene currently not associated with the patient's cardiomyopathy subtype. Only 15 out of 2002 patients (0.8%) were found to carry two (L)P variants. CONCLUSION The yield of routine clinical diagnostics of cardiomyopathies was relatively low when compared to literature. This is likely due to the fact that our study reports the outcome of patients in daily routine diagnostics, therefore also including patients not fully fulfilling (subtype specific) cardiomyopathy criteria. This may also explain why (L)P variants were identified in genes not associated with the reported subtype. The added value of CNV analysis was shown to be limited but not negligible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Z Alimohamed
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Lennart F Johansson
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Genomics Coordination Center, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Anna Posafalvi
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ludolf G Boven
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Krista K van Dijk
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Lisa Walters
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Yvonne J Vos
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Helga Westers
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Yvonne M Hoedemaekers
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Richard J Sinke
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Rolf H Sijmons
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Birgit Sikkema-Raddatz
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Jan D H Jongbloed
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Paul A van der Zwaag
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
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16
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Patel V, Asatryan B, Siripanthong B, Munroe PB, Tiku-Owens A, Lopes LR, Khanji MY, Protonotarios A, Santangeli P, Muser D, Marchlinski FE, Brady PA, Chahal CAA. State of the Art Review on Genetics and Precision Medicine in Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186615. [PMID: 32927679 PMCID: PMC7554944 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is an inherited cardiomyopathy characterised by ventricular arrhythmia and an increased risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). Numerous genetic determinants and phenotypic manifestations have been discovered in ACM, posing a significant clinical challenge. Further to this, wider evaluation of family members has revealed incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity in ACM, suggesting a complex genotype-phenotype relationship. This review details the genetic basis of ACM with specific genotype-phenotype associations, providing the reader with a nuanced perspective of this condition; whilst also proposing a future roadmap to delivering precision medicine-based management in ACM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viraj Patel
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Papworth Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0AY, UK;
| | - Babken Asatryan
- Department of Cardiology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland;
| | | | - Patricia B. Munroe
- Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK;
- NIHR Barts Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Centre, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Anjali Tiku-Owens
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (A.T.-O.); (P.S.); (D.M.); (F.E.M.)
| | - Luis R. Lopes
- Department of Cardiology, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London EC1A 7BE, UK; (L.R.L.); (M.Y.K.); (A.P.)
- Centre for Heart Muscle Disease, UCL Institute of Cardiovascular Science, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Mohammed Y. Khanji
- NIHR Barts Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Centre, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
- Department of Cardiology, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London EC1A 7BE, UK; (L.R.L.); (M.Y.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Alexandros Protonotarios
- Department of Cardiology, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, London EC1A 7BE, UK; (L.R.L.); (M.Y.K.); (A.P.)
- Centre for Heart Muscle Disease, UCL Institute of Cardiovascular Science, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Pasquale Santangeli
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (A.T.-O.); (P.S.); (D.M.); (F.E.M.)
| | - Daniele Muser
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (A.T.-O.); (P.S.); (D.M.); (F.E.M.)
| | - Francis E. Marchlinski
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (A.T.-O.); (P.S.); (D.M.); (F.E.M.)
| | - Peter A. Brady
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA;
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60657, USA
| | - C. Anwar A. Chahal
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Papworth Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0AY, UK;
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (A.T.-O.); (P.S.); (D.M.); (F.E.M.)
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-267-252-3461
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17
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Established and Emerging Mechanisms in the Pathogenesis of Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy: A Multifaceted Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176320. [PMID: 32878278 PMCID: PMC7503882 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a heritable myocardial disease that manifests with cardiac arrhythmias, syncope, sudden cardiac death, and heart failure in the advanced stages. The pathological hallmark of ACM is a gradual replacement of the myocardium by fibroadiposis, which typically starts from the epicardium. Molecular genetic studies have identified causal mutations predominantly in genes encoding for desmosomal proteins; however, non-desmosomal causal mutations have also been described, including genes coding for nuclear proteins, cytoskeleton componentsand proteins involved in excitation-contraction coupling. Despite the poor prognosis, currently available treatments can only partially control symptoms and to date there is no effective therapy for ACM. Inhibition of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway and activation of the Hippo and the TGF-β pathways have been implicated in the pathogenesis of ACM. Yet, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the development of the disease and the cell source of fibroadiposis remains incomplete. Elucidation of the pathogenesis of the disease could facilitate targeted approaches for treatment. In this manuscript we will provide a comprehensive review of the proposed molecular and cellular mechanisms of the pathogenesis of ACM, including the emerging evidence on abnormal calcium homeostasis and inflammatory/autoimmune response. Moreover, we will propose novel hypothesis about the role of epicardial cells and paracrine factors in the development of the phenotype. Finally, we will discuss potential innovative therapeutic approaches based on the growing knowledge in the field.
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18
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Cassani M, Fernandes S, Vrbsky J, Ergir E, Cavalieri F, Forte G. Combining Nanomaterials and Developmental Pathways to Design New Treatments for Cardiac Regeneration: The Pulsing Heart of Advanced Therapies. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:323. [PMID: 32391340 PMCID: PMC7193099 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The research for heart therapies is challenged by the limited intrinsic regenerative capacity of the adult heart. Moreover, it has been hampered by the poor results obtained by tissue engineering and regenerative medicine attempts at generating functional beating constructs able to integrate with the host tissue. For this reason, organ transplantation remains the elective treatment for end-stage heart failure, while novel strategies aiming to promote cardiac regeneration or repair lag behind. The recent discovery that adult cardiomyocytes can be ectopically induced to enter the cell cycle and proliferate by a combination of microRNAs and cardioprotective drugs, like anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-coagulants and anti-platelets agents, fueled the quest for new strategies suited to foster cardiac repair. While proposing a revolutionary approach for heart regeneration, these studies raised serious issues regarding the efficient controlled delivery of the therapeutic cargo, as well as its timely removal or metabolic inactivation from the site of action. Especially, there is need for innovative treatment because of evidence of severe side effects caused by pleiotropic drugs. Biocompatible nanoparticles possess unique physico-chemical properties that have been extensively exploited for overcoming the limitations of standard medical therapies. Researchers have put great efforts into the optimization of the nanoparticles synthesis and functionalization, to control their interactions with the biological milieu and use as a viable alternative to traditional approaches. Nanoparticles can be used for diagnosis and deliver therapies in a personalized and targeted fashion. Regarding the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, nanoparticles-based strategies have provided very promising outcomes, in preclinical studies, during the last years. Efficient encapsulation of a large variety of cargos, specific release at the desired site and improvement of cardiac function are some of the main achievements reached so far by nanoparticle-based treatments in animal models. This work offers an overview on the recent nanomedical applications for cardiac regeneration and highlights how the versatility of nanomaterials can be combined with the newest molecular biology discoveries to advance cardiac regeneration therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cassani
- International Clinical Research Center, St Anne’s University Hospital, Brno, Czechia
| | - Soraia Fernandes
- International Clinical Research Center, St Anne’s University Hospital, Brno, Czechia
| | - Jan Vrbsky
- International Clinical Research Center, St Anne’s University Hospital, Brno, Czechia
| | - Ece Ergir
- International Clinical Research Center, St Anne’s University Hospital, Brno, Czechia
- Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry and Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Vienna University of Technology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Francesca Cavalieri
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Chimiche, Università di Roma “Tor Vergata”, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, Rome, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Forte
- International Clinical Research Center, St Anne’s University Hospital, Brno, Czechia
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James CA, Syrris P, van Tintelen JP, Calkins H. The role of genetics in cardiovascular disease: arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy. Eur Heart J 2020; 41:1393-1400. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehaa141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a heritable cardiomyopathy characterized by frequent ventricular arrhythmias and progressive ventricular dysfunction. Risk of sudden cardiac death is elevated in ACM patients and can be the presenting symptom particularly in younger individuals and athletes. This review describes current understanding of the genetic architecture of ACM and molecular mechanisms of ACM pathogenesis. We consider an emerging threshold model for ACM inheritance in which multiple factors including pathogenic variants in known ACM genes, genetic modifiers, and environmental exposures, particularly exercise, are required to reach a threshold for disease expression. We also review best practices for integrating genetics—including recent discoveries—in caring for ACM families and emphasize the utility of genotype for both management of affected individuals and predictive testing in family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia A James
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Carnegie 568D, 600 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287-0409, USA
| | - Petros Syrris
- Centre for Heart Muscle Disease, Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - J Peter van Tintelen
- Department of Genetics, University of Utrecht, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hugh Calkins
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Carnegie 568D, 600 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287-0409, USA
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20
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Abstract
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) represents one of the primary cardiomyopathies and may lead to heart failure and sudden death. Until recently, ventricular arrhythmias were considered to be a direct consequence of the systolic dysfunction of the left ventricle (LV) and guidelines for implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation were established on this basis. However, the identification of heritable dilated cardiomyopathy phenotypes that presented with mildly impaired or moderate LV dysfunction, with or without chamber dilatation, and ventricular arrhythmias exceeding the degree of the underlying morphological abnormalities lead to the identification of the arrhythmogenic phenotypes and genotypes of DCM. This subset of DCM patients presents phenotypic and in many cases genotypic overlaps with left dominant arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (LDAC). LMNA, SCN5A, FLNC, TTN, and RBM20 are the main genes responsible for arrhythmogenic DCM. Moreover, desmosomal genes such as DSP and other non-desmosomal such as DES and PLN have been associated with both LDAC and arrhythmogenic DCM. The aim of this review is to highlight the importance of genetic profiling among DCM patients with disproportionate arrhythmic burden and the significance of the electrocardiogram, cardiac magnetic resonance, Holter monitoring, detailed family history, and other assays in order to identify red flags for arrhythmogenic DCM and proceed to an early preventive approach for sudden cardiac death. A special consideration was given to the phenotypic and genotypic overlap with LDAC. The role of myocarditis as a common disease expression of LDAC and arrhythmogenic DCM is also analyzed supporting the premise of their phenotypic overlap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Zegkos
- 1st Cardiology Department, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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21
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Miles C, Finocchiaro G, Papadakis M, Gray B, Westaby J, Ensam B, Basu J, Parry-Williams G, Papatheodorou E, Paterson C, Malhotra A, Robertus JL, Ware JS, Cook SA, Asimaki A, Witney A, Ster IC, Tome M, Sharma S, Behr ER, Sheppard MN. Sudden Death and Left Ventricular Involvement in Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy. Circulation 2020; 139:1786-1797. [PMID: 30700137 PMCID: PMC6467560 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.118.037230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is an inherited heart muscle disorder characterized by myocardial fibrofatty replacement and an increased risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). Originally described as a right ventricular disease, ACM is increasingly recognized as a biventricular entity. We evaluated pathological, genetic, and clinical associations in a large SCD cohort. METHODS We investigated 5205 consecutive cases of SCD referred to a national cardiac pathology center between 1994 and 2018. Hearts and tissue blocks were examined by expert cardiac pathologists. After comprehensive histological evaluation, 202 cases (4%) were diagnosed with ACM. Of these, 15 (7%) were diagnosed antemortem with dilated cardiomyopathy (n=8) or ACM (n=7). Previous symptoms, medical history, circumstances of death, and participation in competitive sport were recorded. Postmortem genetic testing was undertaken in 24 of 202 (12%). Rare genetic variants were classified according to American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics criteria. RESULTS Of 202 ACM decedents (35.4±13.2 years; 82% male), no previous cardiac symptoms were reported in 157 (78%). Forty-one decedents (41/202; 20%) had been participants in competitive sport. The adjusted odds of dying during physical exertion were higher in men than in women (odds ratio, 4.58; 95% CI, 1.54-13.68; P=0.006) and in competitive athletes in comparison with nonathletes (odds ratio, 16.62; 95% CI, 5.39-51.24; P<0.001). None of the decedents with an antemortem diagnosis of dilated cardiomyopathy fulfilled definite 2010 Task Force criteria. The macroscopic appearance of the heart was normal in 40 of 202 (20%) cases. There was left ventricular histopathologic involvement in 176 of 202 (87%). Isolated right ventricular disease was seen in 13%, isolated left ventricular disease in 17%, and biventricular involvement in 70%. Among whole hearts, the most common areas of fibrofatty infiltration were the left ventricular posterobasal (68%) and anterolateral walls (58%). Postmortem genetic testing yielded pathogenic variants in ACM-related genes in 6 of 24 (25%) decedents. CONCLUSIONS SCD attributable to ACM affects men predominantly, most commonly occurring during exertion in athletic individuals in the absence of previous reported cardiac symptoms. Left ventricular involvement is observed in the vast majority of SCD cases diagnosed with ACM at autopsy. Current Task Force criteria may fail to diagnose biventricular ACM before death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Miles
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Gherardo Finocchiaro
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Michael Papadakis
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Belinda Gray
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Joseph Westaby
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Bode Ensam
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Joyee Basu
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Gemma Parry-Williams
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Efstathios Papatheodorou
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Casey Paterson
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Aneil Malhotra
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Jan Lukas Robertus
- Department of Pathology, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, Imperial College London, United Kingdom (J.L.R.)
| | - James S Ware
- National Heart and Lung Institute & MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Imperial College London, and Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom (J.S.W., S.A.C.)
| | - Stuart A Cook
- National Heart and Lung Institute & MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences, Imperial College London, and Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom (J.S.W., S.A.C.)
| | - Angeliki Asimaki
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Adam Witney
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (A.W., I.C.S.)
| | - Irina Chis Ster
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (A.W., I.C.S.)
| | - Maite Tome
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Sanjay Sharma
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Elijah R Behr
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
| | - Mary N Sheppard
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University Hospitals' NHS Foundation Trust and Molecular and Clinical Sciences Institute, St George's University of London, United Kingdom (C.M., G.F., M.P., B.G., J.W., B.E., J.B., G.P.-W., E.P. C.P., A.M., A.A., M.T., S.S., E.R.B., M.N.S.)
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22
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Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy is a genetic disorder characterized by the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias, myocardial dysfunction and fibrofatty replacement of myocardial tissue. Mutations in genes that encode components of desmosomes, the adhesive junctions that connect cardiomyocytes, are the predominant cause of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy and can be identified in about half of patients with the condition. However, the molecular mechanisms leading to myocardial destruction, remodelling and arrhythmic predisposition remain poorly understood. Through the development of animal, induced pluripotent stem cell and other models of disease, advances in our understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy over the past decade have brought several signalling pathways into focus. These pathways include canonical and non-canonical WNT signalling, the Hippo-Yes-associated protein (YAP) pathway and transforming growth factor-β signalling. These studies have begun to identify potential therapeutic targets whose modulation has shown promise in preclinical models. In this Review, we summarize and discuss the reported molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy.
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23
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Duru F, Hauer RNW. Multiple facets of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy: the Fuwai classification of a unique disease based on clinical features, histopathology, and genotype. Eur Heart J 2019; 40:1704-1706. [PMID: 31152552 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehz253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Firat Duru
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Richard N W Hauer
- Netherlands Heart Institute and Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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24
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Chen C, Tan Z, Zhu W, Fu L, Kong Q, Xiong Q, Yu J, Hong K. Brugada syndrome with SCN5A mutations exhibits more pronounced electrophysiological defects and more severe prognosis: A meta-analysis. Clin Genet 2019; 97:198-208. [PMID: 30963536 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Whether the presence of SCN5A mutation is a predictor of BrS risk remains controversial, and patient selection bias may have weakened previous findings. Therefore, we performed this study to clarify the clinical characteristics and outcomes of BrS probands with SCN5A mutations. We systematically retrieved eligible studies published through October 2018. A total of 17 studies enrolling 1780 BrS patients were included. Overall, our results found that compared with BrS patients without SCN5A mutations, patients with SCN5A mutations exhibited a younger age at the onset of symptoms and higher rate of the spontaneous type-1 electrocardiogram pattern, more pronounced conduction or repolarization abnormalities, and increased atrial vulnerability. In addition, the presence of SCN5A mutations was associated with an elevated risk of major arrhythmic events in both Asian (odds ratio [OR] = 1.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07-3.11; P = .03) and Caucasian (OR = 2.24, 95% CI 1.02-4.90; P = .04) populations. In conclusions, patients with SCN5A mutations exhibit more pronounced electrophysiological defects and more severe prognosis. Clinicians should be cautious when utilizing genetic testing for risk stratification or treatment guidance before determining whether the causal relationship regarding SCN5A mutation status is an independent predictor of risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Zhaochong Tan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Wengen Zhu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Linghua Fu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Qiling Kong
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Qinmei Xiong
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Kui Hong
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China.,Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanchang 330006, China.,Department of Genetic Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
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25
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James CA, Calkins H. Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy: Progress Toward Personalized Management. Annu Rev Med 2019; 70:1-18. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-med-041217-010932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is an inherited heart disease characterized by fibrofatty replacement of the ventricular myocardium, a high risk of ventricular arrhythmias, and progressive ventricular dysfunction. The clinical course is highly variable, and optimal approaches to management remain undefined. ARVC is associated with pathogenic variants in genes encoding the cardiac desmosome. Genetic testing facilitates identification of at-risk family members, but penetrance of ARVC in pathogenic variant carriers is difficult to predict. Participation in endurance exercise is a known key risk factor. However, there remains significant uncertainty about which family member will develop disease and how best to approach longitudinal screening. Our clinically focused review describes how new insights gained from natural history studies, improved understanding of pathogenic mechanisms, and appreciation of genetic and environmental modifiers have set the stage for developing personalized approaches to managing both ARVC patients and their at-risk family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia A. James
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, USA;,
| | - Hugh Calkins
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, USA;,
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26
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Translating emerging molecular genetic insights into clinical practice in inherited cardiomyopathies. J Mol Med (Berl) 2018; 96:993-1024. [PMID: 30128729 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-018-1685-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 07/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cardiomyopathies are primarily genetic disorders of the myocardium associated with higher risk of life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death. The evolving knowledge in genomic medicine during the last decade has reshaped our understanding of cardiomyopathies as diseases of multifactorial nature and complex pathophysiology. Genetic testing in cardiomyopathies has subsequently grown from primarily a research tool into an essential clinical evaluation piece with important clinical implications for patients and their families. The purpose of this review is to provide with a contemporary insight into the implications of genetic testing in diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis of patients with inherited cardiomyopathies. Here, we summarize the contemporary knowledge on genotype-phenotype correlations in inherited cardiomyopathies and highlight the recent significant achievements in the field of translational cardiovascular genetics.
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27
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Stallmeyer B, Dittmann S, Schulze-Bahr E. Genetische Diagnostik zur Vermeidung des plötzlichen Herztods. Internist (Berl) 2018; 59:776-789. [DOI: 10.1007/s00108-018-0462-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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28
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Manring HR, Dorn LE, Ex-Willey A, Accornero F, Ackermann MA. At the heart of inter- and intracellular signaling: the intercalated disc. Biophys Rev 2018; 10:961-971. [PMID: 29876873 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-018-0430-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Proper cardiac function requires the synchronous mechanical and electrical coupling of individual cardiomyocytes. The intercalated disc (ID) mediates coupling of neighboring myocytes through intercellular signaling. Intercellular communication is highly regulated via intracellular signaling, and signaling pathways originating from the ID control cardiomyocyte remodeling and function. Herein, we present an overview of the inter- and intracellular signaling that occurs at and originates from the intercalated disc in normal physiology and pathophysiology. This review highlights the importance of the intercalated disc as an integrator of signaling events regulating homeostasis and stress responses in the heart and the center of several pathophysiological processes mediating the development of cardiomyopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather R Manring
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Lisa E Dorn
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Aidan Ex-Willey
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Federica Accornero
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Maegen A Ackermann
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
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29
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Hoorntje ET, Te Rijdt WP, James CA, Pilichou K, Basso C, Judge DP, Bezzina CR, van Tintelen JP. Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy: pathology, genetics, and concepts in pathogenesis. Cardiovasc Res 2018; 113:1521-1531. [PMID: 28957532 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvx150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a rare, heritable heart disease characterized by fibro-fatty replacement of the myocardium and a high degree of electric instability. It was first thought to be a congenital disorder, but is now regarded as a dystrophic heart muscle disease that develops over time. There is no curative treatment and current treatment strategies focus on attenuating the symptoms, slowing disease progression, and preventing life-threatening arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Identification of mutations in genes encoding desmosomal proteins and in other genes has led to insights into the disease pathogenesis and greatly facilitated identification of family members at risk. The disease phenotype is, however, highly variable and characterized by incomplete penetrance. Although the reasons are still poorly understood, sex, endurance exercise and a gene-dosage effect seem to play a role in these phenomena. The discovery of the genes and mutations implicated in ACM has allowed animal and cellular models to be generated, enabling researchers to start unravelling it's underlying molecular mechanisms. Observations in humans and in animal models suggest that reduced cell-cell adhesion affects gap junction and ion channel remodelling at the intercalated disc, and along with impaired desmosomal function, these can lead to perturbations in signalling cascades like the Wnt/β-catenin and Hippo/YAP pathways. Perturbations of these pathways are also thought to lead to fibro-fatty replacement. A better understanding of the molecular processes may lead to new therapies that target specific pathways involved in ACM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar T Hoorntje
- Department of Genetics, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Netherlands Heart Institute, Moreelsepark 1, 3511 EP, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter P Te Rijdt
- Department of Genetics, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Cynthia A James
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kalliopi Pilichou
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padua, Padua 35121, Italy
| | - Cristina Basso
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padua, Padua 35121, Italy
| | - Daniel P Judge
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Connie R Bezzina
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology, Heart Centre, Academic Medical Centre, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Peter van Tintelen
- Netherlands Heart Institute, Moreelsepark 1, 3511 EP, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Centre Amsterdam, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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30
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Chen K, Song J, Wang Z, Rao M, Chen L, Hu S. Absence of a primary role for TTN missense variants in arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy: From a clinical and pathological perspective. Clin Cardiol 2018; 41:615-622. [PMID: 29750433 DOI: 10.1002/clc.22906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Revised: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is an inheritable heart disease characterized by fibro-fatty replacement of the myocardium. TTN missense variants were previously reported as a pathogenic factor for ACM. HYPOTHESIS TTN missense variants are commonly identified in ACM, but have limited effect on the phenotype of ACM. METHODS We sequenced 15 ACM-related genes in 35 patients who had a heart transplantation and quantified myocardium, and fibrous and adipose tissue in blocks of the explanted heart. Clinical and pathological characteristics were compared between patients with TTN variants and others. Pedigree analysis was performed in 3 families with TTN variants. RESULTS TTN variants were detected in 11 patients (all missense, 9 heterozygous and 2 oligogenic form). The TTN truncating variant was absent in the cohort. Patients with TTN variants had late onset age of the disease (31 ±13 years vs 17 ±3 years, P = 0.049) and age of heart transplantation (41 ±14 years vs 24 ±9 years, P = 0.027), larger left ventricle end-diastolic diameter (62 ±10 mm vs 45 ±10 mm, P = 0.019), smaller right ventricular outflow tract (34 ±14 mm vs 50 ±15 mm, P = 0.046), more myocardium (40.8% ±29.4% vs 13.8% ±11.0%, P = 0.017), and less adipose tissue (43.0% ±30.9% vs 66.9% ±18.5%, P = 0.036) in right ventricle than those with desmosomal variants. There was few difference between patients with TTN variants and those without variants. Pedigrees showed none of the family members with TTN missense variants had a disease phenotype, indicating a very low penetrance. CONCLUSIONS TTN missense variants was commonly identified in ACM patients in this cohort, but hardly played a primary role in ACM as causative variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangping Song
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Man Rao
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shengshou Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Li KHC, Bazoukis G, Liu T, Li G, Wu WKK, Wong SH, Wong WT, Chan YS, Wong MCS, Wassilew K, Vassiliou VS, Tse G. Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy/dysplasia (ARVC/D) in clinical practice. J Arrhythm 2018; 34:11-22. [PMID: 29721109 PMCID: PMC5828272 DOI: 10.1002/joa3.12021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy/dysplasia (ARVC/D) is an inherited myocardial disease characterized by fibro-fatty replacement of the right ventricular myocardium, and associated with paroxysmal ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD). It is currently the second most common cause of SCD after hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in young people <35 years of age, causing up to 20% of deaths in this patient population. This condition has a male preponderance and is more commonly found in individuals of Italian and Greek descent. To date, there is no single diagnostic test for ARVC/D and the diagnosis is made based on clinical, electrocardiographic, and radiological findings according to the Revised 2010 Task Force Criteria. In this review, we will discuss the mainstay treatment which includes pharmacotherapy, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator insertion for abortion of sudden cardiac death, and in the advanced stages of the disease cardiac transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - George Bazoukis
- Second Department of CardiologyLaboratory of Cardiac Electrophysiology“Evangelismos” General Hospital of AthensAthensGreece
| | - Tong Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic‐Molecular Function of Cardiovascular diseaseDepartment of CardiologyTianjin Institute of CardiologySecond Hospital of Tianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Guangping Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic‐Molecular Function of Cardiovascular diseaseDepartment of CardiologyTianjin Institute of CardiologySecond Hospital of Tianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - William K. K. Wu
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive CareFaculty of MedicineChinese University of Hong KongHong KongChina
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health SciencesFaculty of MedicineChinese University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Sunny Hei Wong
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health SciencesFaculty of MedicineChinese University of Hong KongHong KongChina
- Department of Medicine and TherapeuticsFaculty of MedicineChinese University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Wing Tak Wong
- School of Life SciencesChinese University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Yat Sun Chan
- Department of Medicine and TherapeuticsFaculty of MedicineChinese University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Martin C. S. Wong
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary CareFaculty of MedicineThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong KongChina
| | - Katharina Wassilew
- Department of PathologyRigshospitaletUniversity Hospital of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - Vassilios S. Vassiliou
- Norwich Medical SchoolUniversity of East AngliaNorwichUK
- Royal Brompton Hospital and Imperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Gary Tse
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health SciencesFaculty of MedicineChinese University of Hong KongHong KongChina
- Department of Medicine and TherapeuticsFaculty of MedicineChinese University of Hong KongHong KongChina
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Cunningham KS. The Promise of Molecular Autopsy in Forensic Pathology Practice. Acad Forensic Pathol 2017; 7:551-566. [PMID: 31240006 DOI: 10.23907/2017.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Molecular autopsy is changing the practice of forensic pathology. Under some circumstances, one must contemplate the involvement of genetic factors to help explain why someone has died unexpectedly. Such considerations most commonly occur when a young person dies by natural means. However, there are deaths that occur by nonnatural means that the forensic pathologist will be asked to investigate, which could involve natural disease that has a significant genetic underpinning. Elucidation of genetic mutations may not only further an understanding of the pathophysiology at hand, but also speak to underlying susceptibilities in an individual who dies that may not have been recognized. In addition, one may occasionally identify pathological findings that are confused for trauma that may actually be better explained by an underlying disease process. Using molecular medicine as a tool to explore such possibilities can improve the quality of death investigations and provide a new lens to probe challenging and contentious forensic cases that have proved resistant to traditional methods.
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