1
|
Tonko JB, Lambiase PD. The proarrhythmogenic role of autonomics and emerging neuromodulation approaches to prevent sudden death in cardiac ion channelopathies. Cardiovasc Res 2024; 120:114-131. [PMID: 38195920 PMCID: PMC10936753 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvae009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Ventricular arrhythmias in cardiac channelopathies are linked to autonomic triggers, which are sub-optimally targeted in current management strategies. Improved molecular understanding of cardiac channelopathies and cellular autonomic signalling could refine autonomic therapies to target the specific signalling pathways relevant to the specific aetiologies as well as the central nervous system centres involved in the cardiac autonomic regulation. This review summarizes key anatomical and physiological aspects of the cardiac autonomic nervous system and its impact on ventricular arrhythmias in primary inherited arrhythmia syndromes. Proarrhythmogenic autonomic effects and potential therapeutic targets in defined conditions including the Brugada syndrome, early repolarization syndrome, long QT syndrome, and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia will be examined. Pharmacological and interventional neuromodulation options for these cardiac channelopathies are discussed. Promising new targets for cardiac neuromodulation include inhibitory and excitatory G-protein coupled receptors, neuropeptides, chemorepellents/attractants as well as the vagal and sympathetic nuclei in the central nervous system. Novel therapeutic strategies utilizing invasive and non-invasive deep brain/brain stem stimulation as well as the rapidly growing field of chemo-, opto-, or sonogenetics allowing cell-specific targeting to reduce ventricular arrhythmias are presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna B Tonko
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, 5 University Street, London WC1E 6JF, London, UK
| | - Pier D Lambiase
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, 5 University Street, London WC1E 6JF, London, UK
- Department for Cardiology, Bart’s Heart Centre, West Smithfield EC1A 7BE, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Leemann S, Schneider-Warme F, Kleinlogel S. Cardiac optogenetics: shining light on signaling pathways. Pflugers Arch 2023; 475:1421-1437. [PMID: 38097805 PMCID: PMC10730638 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-023-02892-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
In the early 2000s, the field of neuroscience experienced a groundbreaking transformation with the advent of optogenetics. This innovative technique harnesses the properties of naturally occurring and genetically engineered rhodopsins to confer light sensitivity upon target cells. The remarkable spatiotemporal precision offered by optogenetics has provided researchers with unprecedented opportunities to dissect cellular physiology, leading to an entirely new level of investigation. Initially revolutionizing neuroscience, optogenetics quickly piqued the interest of the wider scientific community, and optogenetic applications were expanded to cardiovascular research. Over the past decade, researchers have employed various optical tools to observe, regulate, and steer the membrane potential of excitable cells in the heart. Despite these advancements, achieving control over specific signaling pathways within the heart has remained an elusive goal. Here, we review the optogenetic tools suitable to control cardiac signaling pathways with a focus on GPCR signaling, and delineate potential applications for studying these pathways, both in healthy and diseased hearts. By shedding light on these exciting developments, we hope to contribute to the ongoing progress in basic cardiac research to facilitate the discovery of novel therapeutic possibilities for treating cardiovascular pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siri Leemann
- Institute of Physiology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
- Institute for Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, University Heart Center Freiburg - Bad Krozingen, and Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Franziska Schneider-Warme
- Institute for Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, University Heart Center Freiburg - Bad Krozingen, and Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sonja Kleinlogel
- Institute of Physiology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Translational Medicine Neuroscience, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sato K, Yamashita T, Ohuchi H. Mammalian type opsin 5 preferentially activates G14 in Gq-type G proteins triggering intracellular calcium response. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105020. [PMID: 37423300 PMCID: PMC10432815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian type opsin 5 (Opn5m), a UV-sensitive G protein-coupled receptor opsin highly conserved in vertebrates, would provide a common basis for UV sensing from lamprey to humans. However, G protein coupled with Opn5m remains controversial due to variations in assay conditions and the origin of Opn5m across different reports. Here, we examined Opn5m from diverse species using an aequorin luminescence assay and Gα-KO cell line. Beyond the commonly studied major Gα classes, Gαq, Gα11, Gα14, and Gα15 in the Gq class were individually investigated in this study, as they can drive distinct signaling pathways in addition to a canonical calcium response. UV light triggered a calcium response via all the tested Opn5m proteins in 293T cells, which was abolished by Gq-type Gα deletion and rescued by cotransfection with mouse and medaka Gq-type Gα proteins. Opn5m preferentially activated Gα14 and close relatives. Mutational analysis implicated specific regions, including α3-β5 and αG-α4 loops, αG and α4 helices, and the extreme C terminus, in the preferential activation of Gα14 by Opn5m. FISH revealed co-expression of genes encoding Opn5m and Gα14 in the scleral cartilage of medaka and chicken eyes, supporting their physiological coupling. This suggests that the preferential activation of Gα14 by Opn5m is relevant for UV sensing in specific cell types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keita Sato
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama City, Okayama, Japan.
| | - Takahiro Yamashita
- Department of Biophysics, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hideyo Ohuchi
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama City, Okayama, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Guan N, Gao X, Ye H. Engineering of optogenetic devices for biomedical applications in mammalian synthetic biology. ENGINEERING BIOLOGY 2022; 6:35-49. [PMID: 36969102 PMCID: PMC9996731 DOI: 10.1049/enb2.12022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene- and cell-based therapies are the next frontiers in the field of medicine. Both are transformative and innovative therapies; however, a lack of safety data limits the translation of such promising technologies to the clinic. Improving the safety and promoting the clinical translation of these therapies can be achieved by tightly regulating the release and delivery of therapeutic outputs. In recent years, the rapid development of optogenetic technology has provided opportunities to develop precision-controlled gene- and cell-based therapies, in which light is introduced to precisely and spatiotemporally manipulate the behaviour of genes and cells. This review focuses on the development of optogenetic tools and their applications in biomedicine, including photoactivated genome engineering and phototherapy for diabetes and tumours. The prospects and challenges of optogenetic tools for future clinical applications are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ningzi Guan
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering LaboratoryBiomedical Synthetic Biology Research CenterShanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory BiologyInstitute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xianyun Gao
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering LaboratoryBiomedical Synthetic Biology Research CenterShanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory BiologyInstitute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Haifeng Ye
- Synthetic Biology and Biomedical Engineering LaboratoryBiomedical Synthetic Biology Research CenterShanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory BiologyInstitute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wagdi A, Malan D, Sathyanarayanan U, Beauchamp JS, Vogt M, Zipf D, Beiert T, Mansuroglu B, Dusend V, Meininghaus M, Schneider L, Kalthof B, Wiegert JS, König GM, Kostenis E, Patejdl R, Sasse P, Bruegmann T. Selective optogenetic control of G q signaling using human Neuropsin. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1765. [PMID: 35365606 PMCID: PMC8975936 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29265-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gq proteins are universally important for signal transduction in mammalian cells. The underlying kinetics and transformation from extracellular stimuli into intracellular signaling, however could not be investigated in detail so far. Here we present the human Neuropsin (hOPN5) for specific and repetitive manipulation of Gq signaling in vitro and in vivo with high spatio-temporal resolution. Properties and G protein specificity of hOPN5 are characterized by UV light induced IP3 generation, Ca2+ transients and inhibition of GIRK channel activity in HEK cells. In adult hearts from a transgenic animal model, light increases the spontaneous beating rate. In addition, we demonstrate light induced contractions in the small intestine, which are not detectable after pharmacological Gq protein block. All-optical high-throughput screening for TRPC6 inhibitors is more specific and sensitive than conventional pharmacological screening. Thus, we demonstrate specific Gq signaling of hOPN5 and unveil its potential for optogenetic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Wagdi
- grid.411984.10000 0001 0482 5331Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany ,grid.452396.f0000 0004 5937 5237German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany ,grid.7450.60000 0001 2364 4210Present Address: Department of Cardiology and Pulmonology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Georg August University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Daniela Malan
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Udhayabhaskar Sathyanarayanan
- grid.411984.10000 0001 0482 5331Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Janosch S. Beauchamp
- grid.411984.10000 0001 0482 5331Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Markus Vogt
- grid.411984.10000 0001 0482 5331Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - David Zipf
- grid.411984.10000 0001 0482 5331Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Beiert
- grid.15090.3d0000 0000 8786 803XDepartment of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Berivan Mansuroglu
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany ,grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Research Training Group 1873, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Vanessa Dusend
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany ,grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Research Training Group 1873, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Mark Meininghaus
- grid.420044.60000 0004 0374 4101Bayer AG, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, 42096 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Linn Schneider
- grid.420044.60000 0004 0374 4101Bayer AG, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, 42096 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Bernd Kalthof
- grid.420044.60000 0004 0374 4101Bayer AG, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, 42096 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - J. Simon Wiegert
- grid.13648.380000 0001 2180 3484Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele M. König
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Molecular, Cellular and Pharmacobiology Section, Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Evi Kostenis
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Molecular, Cellular and Pharmacobiology Section, Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Robert Patejdl
- grid.413108.f0000 0000 9737 0454Oscar-Langendorff Institute of Physiology, Rostock University Medical Center, Rostock, Germany
| | - Philipp Sasse
- grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tobias Bruegmann
- grid.411984.10000 0001 0482 5331Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany ,grid.452396.f0000 0004 5937 5237German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany ,grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany ,grid.10388.320000 0001 2240 3300Research Training Group 1873, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany ,grid.7450.60000 0001 2364 4210Cluster of Excellence “Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells” (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
McDowell RJ, Rodgers J, Milosavljevic N, Lucas RJ. Divergent G-protein selectivity across melanopsins from mice and humans. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:274359. [PMID: 35274137 PMCID: PMC8977054 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.258474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanopsin is an opsin photopigment and light-activated G-protein-coupled receptor; it is expressed in photoreceptive retinal ganglion cells (mRGCs) and can be employed as an optogenetic tool. Mammalian melanopsins can signal via Gq/11 and Gi/o/t heterotrimeric G proteins, but aspects of the mRGC light response appear incompatible with either mode of signalling. We use live-cell reporter assays in HEK293T cells to show that melanopsins from mice and humans can also signal via Gs. We subsequently show that this mode of signalling is substantially divergent between species. The two established structural isoforms of mouse melanopsin (which differ in the length of their C-terminal tail) both signalled strongly through all three G-protein classes (Gq/11, Gi/o and Gs), whereas human melanopsin showed weaker signalling through Gs. Our data identify Gs as a new mode of signalling for mammalian melanopsins and reveal diversity in G-protein selectivity across mammalian melanopsins. Summary: The photopigment melanopsin (OPN4), which provides inner retinal photoreception in mammals, shows light-dependent activation of Gs G protein that is more pronounced for mouse than human photopigment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J McDowell
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Jessica Rodgers
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Nina Milosavljevic
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Robert J Lucas
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Cokić M, Bruegmann T, Sasse P, Malan D. Optogenetic Stimulation of G i Signaling Enables Instantaneous Modulation of Cardiomyocyte Pacemaking. Front Physiol 2022; 12:768495. [PMID: 34987414 PMCID: PMC8721037 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.768495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
G-protein signaling pathways are central in the regulation of cardiac function in physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Their functional analysis through optogenetic techniques with selective expression of opsin proteins and activation by specific wavelengths allows high spatial and temporal precision. Here, we present the application of long wavelength-sensitive cone opsin (LWO) in cardiomyocytes for activation of the Gi signaling pathway by red light. Murine embryonic stem (ES) cells expressing LWO were generated and differentiated into beating cardiomyocytes in embryoid bodies (EBs). Illumination with red light (625 nm) led to an instantaneous decrease up to complete inhibition (84–99% effectivity) of spontaneous beating, but had no effect on control EBs. By using increasing light intensities with 10 s pulses, we determined a half maximal effective light intensity of 2.4 μW/mm2 and a maximum effect at 100 μW/mm2. Pre-incubation of LWO EBs with pertussis toxin completely inhibited the light effect proving the specificity for Gi signaling. Frequency reduction was mainly due to the activation of GIRK channels because the specific channel blocker tertiapin reduced the light effect by ~80%. Compared with pharmacological stimulation of M2 receptors with carbachol with slow kinetics (>30 s), illumination of LWO had an identical efficacy, but much faster kinetics (<1 s) in the activation and deactivation demonstrating the temporal advantage of optogenetic stimulation. Thus, LWO is an effective optogenetic tool for selective stimulation of the Gi signaling cascade in cardiomyocytes with red light, providing high temporal precision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milan Cokić
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Physiology I, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tobias Bruegmann
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Physiology I, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Research Training Group 1873, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Philipp Sasse
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Physiology I, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Daniela Malan
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Physiology I, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Maltan L, Najjar H, Tiffner A, Derler I. Deciphering Molecular Mechanisms and Intervening in Physiological and Pathophysiological Processes of Ca 2+ Signaling Mechanisms Using Optogenetic Tools. Cells 2021; 10:3340. [PMID: 34943850 PMCID: PMC8699489 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium ion channels are involved in numerous biological functions such as lymphocyte activation, muscle contraction, neurotransmission, excitation, hormone secretion, gene expression, cell migration, memory, and aging. Therefore, their dysfunction can lead to a wide range of cellular abnormalities and, subsequently, to diseases. To date various conventional techniques have provided valuable insights into the roles of Ca2+ signaling. However, their limited spatiotemporal resolution and lack of reversibility pose significant obstacles in the detailed understanding of the structure-function relationship of ion channels. These drawbacks could be partially overcome by the use of optogenetics, which allows for the remote and well-defined manipulation of Ca2+-signaling. Here, we review the various optogenetic tools that have been used to achieve precise control over different Ca2+-permeable ion channels and receptors and associated downstream signaling cascades. We highlight the achievements of optogenetics as well as the still-open questions regarding the resolution of ion channel working mechanisms. In addition, we summarize the successes of optogenetics in manipulating many Ca2+-dependent biological processes both in vitro and in vivo. In summary, optogenetics has significantly advanced our understanding of Ca2+ signaling proteins and the used tools provide an essential basis for potential future therapeutic application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Isabella Derler
- Institute of Biophysics, JKU Life Science Center, Johannes Kepler University Linz, A-4020 Linz, Austria; (L.M.); (H.N.); (A.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Müllenbroich MC, Kelly A, Acker C, Bub G, Bruegmann T, Di Bona A, Entcheva E, Ferrantini C, Kohl P, Lehnart SE, Mongillo M, Parmeggiani C, Richter C, Sasse P, Zaglia T, Sacconi L, Smith GL. Novel Optics-Based Approaches for Cardiac Electrophysiology: A Review. Front Physiol 2021; 12:769586. [PMID: 34867476 PMCID: PMC8637189 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.769586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Optical techniques for recording and manipulating cellular electrophysiology have advanced rapidly in just a few decades. These developments allow for the analysis of cardiac cellular dynamics at multiple scales while largely overcoming the drawbacks associated with the use of electrodes. The recent advent of optogenetics opens up new possibilities for regional and tissue-level electrophysiological control and hold promise for future novel clinical applications. This article, which emerged from the international NOTICE workshop in 2018, reviews the state-of-the-art optical techniques used for cardiac electrophysiological research and the underlying biophysics. The design and performance of optical reporters and optogenetic actuators are reviewed along with limitations of current probes. The physics of light interaction with cardiac tissue is detailed and associated challenges with the use of optical sensors and actuators are presented. Case studies include the use of fluorescence recovery after photobleaching and super-resolution microscopy to explore the micro-structure of cardiac cells and a review of two photon and light sheet technologies applied to cardiac tissue. The emergence of cardiac optogenetics is reviewed and the current work exploring the potential clinical use of optogenetics is also described. Approaches which combine optogenetic manipulation and optical voltage measurement are discussed, in terms of platforms that allow real-time manipulation of whole heart electrophysiology in open and closed-loop systems to study optimal ways to terminate spiral arrhythmias. The design and operation of optics-based approaches that allow high-throughput cardiac electrophysiological assays is presented. Finally, emerging techniques of photo-acoustic imaging and stress sensors are described along with strategies for future development and establishment of these techniques in mainstream electrophysiological research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Allen Kelly
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Corey Acker
- Center for Cell Analysis and Modeling, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, United States
| | - Gil Bub
- Department of Physiology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Tobias Bruegmann
- Institute for Cardiovascular Physiology, University Medical Center Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Anna Di Bona
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Emilia Entcheva
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | | | - Peter Kohl
- Institute for Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, University Heart Center and Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stephan E. Lehnart
- Heart Research Center Göttingen, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, Georg-August University Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence “Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells” (MBExC), University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Marco Mongillo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Claudia Richter
- German Primate Center - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Philipp Sasse
- Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tania Zaglia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Leonardo Sacconi
- European Laboratory for Nonlinear Spectroscopy, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
- Institute for Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, University Heart Center and Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- National Institute of Optics, National Research Council, Florence, Italy
| | - Godfrey L. Smith
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
[Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells]. Ophthalmologe 2021; 119:358-366. [PMID: 34350494 PMCID: PMC9005408 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-021-01476-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Hintergrund Melanopsin exprimierende, intrinsisch-photosensitive retinale Ganglienzellen (ipRGCs) bilden neben Stäbchen und Zapfen die dritte Klasse von retinalen Photorezeptoren. Diese kleine, heterogene Zellfamilie vermittelt ein weites Spektrum an Aufgaben überwiegend des nicht-bildformenden Sehens. Fragestellung Diese Arbeit soll einen Einblick in das aktuelle Verständnis der Funktion und der funktionellen Diversität der ipRGCs geben sowie klinisch und translational relevante Aspekte beleuchten. Material und Methoden Narrative Übersichtsarbeit. Ergebnisse ipRGCs machen etwa 1–2 % aller retinalen Ganglienzellen aus und bilden dabei 6 spezialisierte Subtypen. Mit ihrem Photopigment Melanopsin sind sie in der Lage, unabhängig von synaptischem Input Lichtinformationen an das Gehirn weiterzuleiten oder lichtabhängig zu modifizieren. Je nach Subtyp vermitteln sie so nichtvisuelle Aufgaben wie die Synchronisation der inneren Uhr oder den Pupillenreflex, greifen aber auch in das bildformende System ein. ipRGCs weisen eine differenzielle Widerstandskraft gegenüber Optikusschädigung auf, was sie zu einem attraktiven Studienobjekt für die Entwicklung neuroprotektiver Therapieansätze macht. Melanopsin rückt zudem als optogenetisches Werkzeug, etwa in der prosthetischen Gentherapie, in den Fokus. Schlussfolgerungen Häufige klinische Beobachtungen lassen sich nur mit Kenntnis des ipRGC-Systems verstehen. Ihre neuronale Vernetzung und die intrazelluläre Signalverarbeitung sind Gegenstand aktiver Forschung, die neue translationale Ansätze hervorbringt.
Collapse
|
11
|
Gheorghiu M, Polonschii C, Popescu O, Gheorghiu E. Advanced Optogenetic-Based Biosensing and Related Biomaterials. MATERIALS 2021; 14:ma14154151. [PMID: 34361345 PMCID: PMC8347019 DOI: 10.3390/ma14154151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The ability to stimulate mammalian cells with light, brought along by optogenetic control, has significantly broadened our understanding of electrically excitable tissues. Backed by advanced (bio)materials, it has recently paved the way towards novel biosensing concepts supporting bio-analytics applications transversal to the main biomedical stream. The advancements concerning enabling biomaterials and related novel biosensing concepts involving optogenetics are reviewed with particular focus on the use of engineered cells for cell-based sensing platforms and the available toolbox (from mere actuators and reporters to novel multifunctional opto-chemogenetic tools) for optogenetic-enabled real-time cellular diagnostics and biosensor development. The key advantages of these modified cell-based biosensors concern both significantly faster (minutes instead of hours) and higher sensitivity detection of low concentrations of bioactive/toxic analytes (below the threshold concentrations in classical cellular sensors) as well as improved standardization as warranted by unified analytic platforms. These novel multimodal functional electro-optical label-free assays are reviewed among the key elements for optogenetic-based biosensing standardization. This focused review is a potential guide for materials researchers interested in biosensing based on light-responsive biomaterials and related analytic tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Gheorghiu
- International Centre of Biodynamics, 1B Intrarea Portocalelor, 060101 Bucharest, Romania;
- Correspondence: (M.G.); (E.G.)
| | - Cristina Polonschii
- International Centre of Biodynamics, 1B Intrarea Portocalelor, 060101 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Octavian Popescu
- Molecular Biology Center, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research in Bio-Nano-Sciences, Babes-Bolyai-University, 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Institute of Biology Bucharest, Romanian Academy, 296 Splaiul Independentei, 060031 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Eugen Gheorghiu
- International Centre of Biodynamics, 1B Intrarea Portocalelor, 060101 Bucharest, Romania;
- Correspondence: (M.G.); (E.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Li J, Li H, Rao P, Luo J, Wang X, Wang L. Shining light on cardiac electrophysiology: From detection to intervention, from basic research to translational applications. Life Sci 2021; 274:119357. [PMID: 33737082 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119357] [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: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias are an important group of cardiovascular diseases, which can occur alone or in association with other cardiovascular diseases. The development of cardiac arrhythmias cannot be separated from changes in cardiac electrophysiology, and the investigation and clarification of cardiac electrophysiological changes are beneficial for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. However, electrical energy-based pacemakers and defibrillators, which are widely used to treat arrhythmias, still have certain disadvantages. Thereby, optics promises to be used for optical manipulation and its use in biomedicine is increasing. Since visible light is readily absorbed and scattered in living tissues and tissue penetration is shallow, optical modulation for cells and tissues requires conversion media that convert light energy into bioelectrical activity. In this regard, fluorescent dyes, light-sensitive ion channels, and optical nanomaterials can assume this role, the corresponding optical mapping technology, optogenetics technology, and optical systems based on luminescent nanomaterials have been introduced into the research in cardiovascular field and are expected to be new tools for the study and treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. In addition, infrared and near-infrared light has strong tissue penetration, which is one of the excellent options of external trigger for achieving optical modulation, and is also widely used in the study of optical modulation of biological activities. Here, the advantages of optical applications are summarized, the research progresses and emerging applications of optical-based technologies as detection and intervention tools for cardiac electrophysiological are highlighted. Moreover, the prospects for future applications of optics in clinical diagnosis and treatment are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianyi Li
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, PR China
| | - Haitao Li
- Department of Cardiology, Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570311, PR China
| | - Panpan Rao
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, PR China
| | - Junmiao Luo
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, PR China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, PR China.
| | - Long Wang
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, PR China; Department of Anesthesiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Optogenetic Modulation of Ion Channels by Photoreceptive Proteins. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1293:73-88. [PMID: 33398808 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-8763-4_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
In these 15 years, researches to control cellular responses by light have flourished dramatically to establish "optogenetics" as a research field. In particular, light-dependent excitation/inhibition of neural cells using channelrhodopsins or other microbial rhodopsins is the most powerful and the most widely used optogenetic technique. New channelrhodopsin-based optogenetic tools having favorable characteristics have been identified from a wide variety of organisms or created through mutagenesis. Despite the great efforts, some neuronal activities are still hard to be manipulated by the channelrhodopsin-based tools, indicating that complementary approaches are needed to make optogenetics more comprehensive. One of the feasible and complementary approaches is optical control of ion channels using photoreceptive proteins other than channelrhodopsins. In particular, animal opsins can modulate various ion channels via light-dependent G protein activation. In this chapter, we summarize how such alternative optogenetic tools work and they will be improved.
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
The electromechanical function of the heart involves complex, coordinated activity over time and space. Life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias arise from asynchrony in these space-time events; therefore, therapies for prevention and treatment require fundamental understanding and the ability to visualize, perturb and control cardiac activity. Optogenetics combines optical and molecular biology (genetic) approaches for light-enabled sensing and actuation of electrical activity with unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution and parallelism. The year 2020 marks a decade of developments in cardiac optogenetics since this technology was adopted from neuroscience and applied to the heart. In this Review, we appraise a decade of advances that define near-term (immediate) translation based on all-optical electrophysiology, including high-throughput screening, cardiotoxicity testing and personalized medicine assays, and long-term (aspirational) prospects for clinical translation of cardiac optogenetics, including new optical therapies for rhythm control. The main translational opportunities and challenges for optogenetics to be fully embraced in cardiology are also discussed.
Collapse
|
15
|
Nguyen NT, Ma G, Zhou Y, Jing J. Optogenetic approaches to control Ca 2+-modulated physiological processes. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 17:187-196. [PMID: 33184610 DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2020.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
As a versatile intracellular second messenger, calcium ion (Ca2+) regulates a plethora of physiological processes. To achieve precise control over Ca2+ signals in living cells and organisms, a set of optogenetic tools have recently been crafted by engineering photosensitive domains into intracellular signaling proteins, G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), and Ca2+ channels. We highlight herein the optogenetic engineering strategies, kinetic properties, advantages and limitations of these genetically-encoded Ca2+ channel actuators (GECAs) and modulators. In parallel, we present exemplary applications in both excitable and non-excitable cells and tissues. Furthermore, we briefly discuss potential solutions for wireless optogenetics to accelerate the in vivo applications of GECAs under physiological conditions, with an emphasis on integrating near-infrared (NIR) light-excitable upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) and bioluminescence with optogenetics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nhung T Nguyen
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Guolin Ma
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yubin Zhou
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ji Jing
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Men J, Li A, Jerwick J, Li Z, Tanzi RE, Zhou C. Non-invasive red-light optogenetic control of Drosophila cardiac function. Commun Biol 2020; 3:336. [PMID: 32601302 PMCID: PMC7324573 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-020-1065-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Drosophila is a powerful genetic model system for cardiovascular studies. Recently, optogenetic pacing tools have been developed to control Drosophila heart rhythm noninvasively with blue light, which has a limited penetration depth. Here we developed both a red-light sensitive opsin expressing Drosophila system and an integrated red-light stimulation and optical coherence microscopy (OCM) imaging system. We demonstrated noninvasive control of Drosophila cardiac rhythms using a single light source, including simulated tachycardia in ReaChR-expressing flies and bradycardia and cardiac arrest in halorhodopsin (NpHR)-expressing flies at multiple developmental stages. By using red excitation light, we were able to pace flies at higher efficiency and with lower power than with equivalent blue light excitation systems. The recovery dynamics after red-light stimulation of NpHR flies were observed and quantified. The combination of red-light stimulation, OCM imaging, and transgenic Drosophila systems provides a promising and easily manipulated research platform for noninvasive cardiac optogenetic studies. Men et al. develop an optogenetic pacing tool to control Drosophila heart rhythm noninvasively with red light. Using optical coherence microscopy imaging, they demonstrate effective light-induced tachypacing, bradypacing, and restorable cardiac arrest in transgenic fly models. This study provides a user-friendly research platform for noninvasive cardiac optogenetic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Men
- Department of Bioengineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, 18015, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63105, USA
| | - Airong Li
- Genetics and Aging Research Unit, McCance Center for Brain Health, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Jason Jerwick
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63105, USA.,Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, 18015, USA
| | - Zilong Li
- Genetics and Aging Research Unit, McCance Center for Brain Health, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Rudolph E Tanzi
- Genetics and Aging Research Unit, McCance Center for Brain Health, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Chao Zhou
- Department of Bioengineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, 18015, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63105, USA. .,Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA, 18015, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kaiser E, Tian Q, Wagner M, Barth M, Xian W, Schröder L, Ruppenthal S, Kaestner L, Boehm U, Wartenberg P, Lu H, McMillin SM, Bone DBJ, Wess J, Lipp P. DREADD technology reveals major impact of Gq signalling on cardiac electrophysiology. Cardiovasc Res 2020; 115:1052-1066. [PMID: 30321287 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvy251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Revised: 06/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Signalling via Gq-coupled receptors is of profound importance in many cardiac diseases such as hypertrophy and arrhythmia. Nevertheless, owing to their widespread expression and the inability to selectively stimulate such receptors in vivo, their relevance for cardiac function is not well understood. We here use DREADD technology to understand the role of Gq-coupled signalling in vivo in cardiac function. METHODS AND RESULTS We generated a novel transgenic mouse line that expresses a Gq-coupled DREADD (Dq) in striated muscle under the control of the muscle creatine kinase promotor. In vivo injection of the DREADD agonist clozapine-N-oxide (CNO) resulted in a dose-dependent, rapid mortality of the animals. In vivo electrocardiogram data revealed severe cardiac arrhythmias including lack of P waves, atrioventricular block, and ventricular tachycardia. Following Dq activation, electrophysiological malfunction of the heart could be recapitulated in the isolated heart ex vivo. Individual ventricular and atrial myocytes displayed a positive inotropic response and arrhythmogenic events in the absence of altered action potentials. Ventricular tissue sections revealed a strong co-localization of Dq with the principal cardiac connexin CX43. Western blot analysis with phosphor-specific antibodies revealed strong phosphorylation of a PKC-dependent CX43 phosphorylation site following CNO application in vivo. CONCLUSION Activation of Gq-coupled signalling has a major impact on impulse generation, impulse propagation, and coordinated impulse delivery in the heart. Thus, Gq-coupled signalling does not only modulate the myocytes' Ca2+ handling but also directly alters the heart's electrophysiological properties such as intercellular communication. This study greatly advances our understanding of the plethora of modulatory influences of Gq signalling on the heart in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Kaiser
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Qinghai Tian
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Michael Wagner
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Monika Barth
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Wenying Xian
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Laura Schröder
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Sandra Ruppenthal
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Lars Kaestner
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Wartenberg
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Huiyan Lu
- Mouse Transgenic Core Facility, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sara M McMillin
- Molecular Signaling Section, Lab. of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Derek B J Bone
- Molecular Signaling Section, Lab. of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jürgen Wess
- Molecular Signaling Section, Lab. of Bioorganic Chemistry, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Peter Lipp
- Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Institute for Molecular Cell Biology; Medical Faculty, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Joshi J, Rubart M, Zhu W. Optogenetics: Background, Methodological Advances and Potential Applications for Cardiovascular Research and Medicine. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 7:466. [PMID: 32064254 PMCID: PMC7000355 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2019.00466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Optogenetics is an elegant approach of precisely controlling and monitoring the biological functions of a cell, group of cells, tissues, or organs with high temporal and spatial resolution by using optical system and genetic engineering technologies. The field evolved with the need to precisely control neurons and decipher neural circuity and has made great accomplishments in neuroscience. It also evolved in cardiovascular research almost a decade ago and has made considerable progress in both in vitro and in vivo animal studies. Thus, this review is written with an objective to provide information on the evolution, background, methodical advances, and potential scope of the field for cardiovascular research and medicine. We begin with a review of literatures on optogenetic proteins related to their origin, structure, types, mechanism of action, methods to improve their performance, and the delivery vehicles and methods to express such proteins on target cells and tissues for cardiovascular research. Next, we reviewed historical and recent literatures to demonstrate the scope of optogenetics for cardiovascular research and regenerative medicine and examined that cardiac optogenetics is vital in mimicking heart diseases, understanding the mechanisms of disease progression and also in introducing novel therapies to treat cardiac abnormalities, such as arrhythmias. We also reviewed optogenetics as promising tools in providing high-throughput data for cardiotoxicity screening in drug development and also in deciphering dynamic roles of signaling moieties in cell signaling. Finally, we put forth considerations on the need of scaling up of the optogenetic system, clinically relevant in vivo and in silico models, light attenuation issues, and concerns over the level, immune reactions, toxicity, and ectopic expression with opsin expression. Detailed investigations on such considerations would accelerate the translation of cardiac optogenetics from present in vitro and in vivo animal studies to clinical therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jyotsna Joshi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Michael Rubart
- Department of Pediatrics, Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Wuqiang Zhu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Keshmiri Neghab H, Goliaei B, Saboury AA, Esmaeeli Djavid G, Pornour M, Hong J, Grusch M. Modulation of cardiac optogenetics by vitamin A. Biofactors 2019; 45:983-990. [PMID: 31509323 DOI: 10.1002/biof.1564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac optogenetics is an emergent research area and refers to the delivery of light-activated proteins to excitable heart tissue and the subsequent use of light for controlling the electrical function with high spatial and temporal resolution. Channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) is a light-sensitive ion channel with the chromophore, all trans retinal, derived from vitamin A (all-trans-retinol; retinol). In this study, we explored whether exogenous vitamin A can be a limiting factor in the light responsiveness of cardiomyocytes-expressing ChR2. We showed that in cardiomyocytes virally transduced with ChR2 (H134R)-enhanced yellow fluorescent protein, vitamin A supplements lower than 10 μM significantly increased ChR2 expression. Adding 1 μM vitamin A changed light-induced transmembrane potential difference significantly, whereas 5 μM dramatically induced membrane depolarization and triggered intracellular calcium elevation. We concluded that vitamin A supplementation can modulate the efficiency of ChR2 and provide a complementary strategy for improving the performance of optogenetic tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Bahram Goliaei
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali A Saboury
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Esmaeeli Djavid
- Department of Photo Healing and Regeneration, Medical Laser Research Center, Yara Institute Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Pornour
- Department of Photo Healing and Regeneration, Medical Laser Research Center, Yara Institute Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
| | - Jun Hong
- School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Michael Grusch
- Department of Medicine I, Comprehensive Cancer Center Vienna, Institute of Cancer Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Do MTH. Melanopsin and the Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells: Biophysics to Behavior. Neuron 2019; 104:205-226. [PMID: 31647894 PMCID: PMC6944442 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian visual system encodes information over a remarkable breadth of spatiotemporal scales and light intensities. This performance originates with its complement of photoreceptors: the classic rods and cones, as well as the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). IpRGCs capture light with a G-protein-coupled receptor called melanopsin, depolarize like photoreceptors of invertebrates such as Drosophila, discharge electrical spikes, and innervate dozens of brain areas to influence physiology, behavior, perception, and mood. Several visual responses rely on melanopsin to be sustained and maximal. Some require ipRGCs to occur at all. IpRGCs fulfill their roles using mechanisms that include an unusual conformation of the melanopsin protein, an extraordinarily slow phototransduction cascade, divisions of labor even among cells of a morphological type, and unorthodox configurations of circuitry. The study of ipRGCs has yielded insight into general topics that include photoreceptor evolution, cellular diversity, and the steps from biophysical mechanisms to behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Tri H Do
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center and Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Center for Life Science 12061, 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Matarèse BFE, Feyen PLC, de Mello JC, Benfenati F. Sub-millisecond Control of Neuronal Firing by Organic Light-Emitting Diodes. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2019; 7:278. [PMID: 31750295 PMCID: PMC6817475 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2019.00278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Optogenetics combines optics and genetics to enable minimally invasive cell-type-specific stimulation in living tissue. For the purposes of bio-implantation, there is a need to develop soft, flexible, transparent and highly biocompatible light sources. Organic semiconducting materials have key advantages over their inorganic counterparts, including low Young's moduli, high strain resistances, and wide color tunability. However, until now it has been unclear whether organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) are capable of providing sufficient optical power for successful neuronal stimulation, while still remaining within a biologically acceptable temperature range. Here we investigate the use of blue polyfluorene- and orange poly(p-phenylenevinylene)-based OLEDs as stimuli for blue-light-activated Sustained Step Function Opsin (SFFO) and red-light-activated ChrimsonR opsin, respectively. We show that, when biased using high frequency (multi-kHz) drive schemes, the OLEDs permit safe and controlled photostimulation of opsin-expressing neurons and were able to control neuronal firing with high temporal-resolution at operating temperatures lower than previously demonstrated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno F. E. Matarèse
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul L. C. Feyen
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
- Section of Physiology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - John C. de Mello
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Organic Electronic Materials, Department of Chemistry, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Fabio Benfenati
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ferenczi EA, Tan X, Huang CLH. Principles of Optogenetic Methods and Their Application to Cardiac Experimental Systems. Front Physiol 2019; 10:1096. [PMID: 31572204 PMCID: PMC6749684 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic techniques permit studies of excitable tissue through genetically expressed light-gated microbial channels or pumps permitting transmembrane ion movement. Light activation of these proteins modulates cellular excitability with millisecond precision. This review summarizes optogenetic approaches, using examples from neurobiological applications, and then explores their application in cardiac electrophysiology. We review the available opsins, including depolarizing and hyperpolarizing variants, as well as modulators of G-protein coupled intracellular signaling. We discuss the biophysical properties that determine the ability of microbial opsins to evoke reliable, precise stimulation or silencing of electrophysiological activity. We also review spectrally shifted variants offering possibilities for enhanced depth of tissue penetration, combinatorial stimulation for targeting different cell subpopulations, or all-optical read-in and read-out studies. Expression of the chosen optogenetic tool in the cardiac cell of interest then requires, at the single-cell level, introduction of opsin-encoding genes by viral transduction, or coupling "spark cells" to primary cardiomyocytes or a stem-cell derived counterpart. At the system-level, this requires construction of transgenic mice expressing ChR2 in their cardiomyocytes, or in vivo injection (myocardial or systemic) of adenoviral expression systems. Light delivery, by laser or LED, with widespread or multipoint illumination, although relatively straightforward in vitro may be technically challenged by cardiac motion and light-scattering in biological tissue. Physiological read outs from cardiac optogenetic stimulation include single cell patch clamp recordings, multi-unit microarray recordings from cell monolayers or slices, and electrical recordings from isolated Langendorff perfused hearts. Optical readouts of specific cellular events, including ion transients, voltage changes or activity in biochemical signaling cascades, using small detecting molecules or genetically encoded sensors now offer powerful opportunities for all-optical control and monitoring of cellular activity. Use of optogenetics has expanded in cardiac physiology, mainly using optically controlled depolarizing ion channels to control heart rate and for optogenetic defibrillation. ChR2-expressing cardiomyocytes show normal baseline and active excitable membrane and Ca2+ signaling properties and are sensitive even to ~1 ms light pulses. They have been employed in studies of the intrinsic cardiac adrenergic system and of cardiac arrhythmic properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily A. Ferenczi
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Xiaoqiu Tan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education and Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Christopher L.-H. Huang
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ye H, Fussenegger M. Optogenetic Medicine: Synthetic Therapeutic Solutions Precision-Guided by Light. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2019; 9:a034371. [PMID: 30291146 PMCID: PMC6719591 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a034371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Gene- and cell-based therapies are well recognized as central pillars of next-generation medicine, but controllability remains a critical issue for clinical applications. In this context, optogenetics is opening up exciting new opportunities for precision-guided medicine by using illumination with light of appropriate intensity and wavelength as a trigger signal to achieve pinpoint spatiotemporal control of cellular activities, such as transgene expression. In this review, we highlight recent advances in optogenetics, focusing on devices for biomedical applications. We introduce the construction and applications of optogenetic-based biomedical tools to treat neurological diseases, diabetes, heart diseases, and cancer, as well as bioelectronic implants that combine light-interfaced electronic devices and optogenetic systems into portable personalized precision bioelectronic medical tools. Optogenetics-based technology promises the capability to achieve traceless, remotely controlled precision dosing of an enormous range of therapeutic outputs. Finally, we discuss the prospects for optogenetic medicine, as well as some emerging challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haifeng Ye
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 200241 Shanghai, China
| | - Martin Fussenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Faculty of Science, CH-4058 Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Jiang C, Li HT, Zhou YM, Wang X, Wang L, Liu ZQ. Cardiac optogenetics: a novel approach to cardiovascular disease therapy. Europace 2019; 20:1741-1749. [PMID: 29253159 DOI: 10.1093/europace/eux345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Optogenetics is a cell-type specific and high spatial-temporal resolution method that combines genetic encoding of light-sensitive proteins and optical manipulation techniques. Optogenetics technology provides a novel approach for research on cardiac arrhythmia treatment, including pacing, recovering the conduction system, and achieving cardiac resynchronization with precise and low-energy optical control. Photosensitive proteins, which usually act as ion channels, pumps, or receptors, are delivered to target cells, where they respond to light pulses of specific wavelengths, evoke transient flows of transmembrane ion currents, and induce signal transmission. With the development of gene technology, the in vivo efficiency of optogenetics in cardiology has been trialed, and in vitro experiments have been performed to test its potential in cardiac electrophysiology. Challenges for applying optogenetics in large animals and humans include the effectiveness, safety, and long-term expression of photosensitive proteins, unscattered and unattenuated exogenous light stimulation, and the need for implantable miniature light stimulators. Photosensitive proteins, genetic engineering technology, and light equipment are essential for experiments in cardiac optogenetics. Optogenetics may provide an alternative method for evaluating the mechanism of cardiac arrhythmias, testing hypotheses, and treating cardiovascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chan Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China.,Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Hai Tao Li
- Department of Cardiology, Hainan General Hospital, Haikou, PR China
| | - Yong Ming Zhou
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China.,Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China.,Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Long Wang
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, PR China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Zi Qiang Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China.,Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China.,Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Sasse P, Funken M, Beiert T, Bruegmann T. Optogenetic Termination of Cardiac Arrhythmia: Mechanistic Enlightenment and Therapeutic Application? Front Physiol 2019; 10:675. [PMID: 31244670 PMCID: PMC6563676 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic methods enable selective de- and hyperpolarization of cardiomyocytes expressing light-sensitive proteins within the myocardium. By using light, this technology provides very high spatial and temporal precision, which is in clear contrast to electrical stimulation. In addition, cardiomyocyte-specific expression would allow pain-free stimulation. In light of these intrinsic technical advantages, optogenetic methods provide an intriguing opportunity to understand and improve current strategies to terminate cardiac arrhythmia as well as for possible pain-free arrhythmia termination in patients in the future. In this review, we give a concise introduction to optogenetic stimulation of cardiomyocytes and the whole heart and summarize the recent progress on optogenetic defibrillation and cardioversion to terminate cardiac arrhythmia. Toward this aim, we specifically focus on the different mechanisms of optogenetic arrhythmia termination and how these might influence the prerequisites for success. Furthermore, we critically discuss the clinical perspectives and potential patient populations, which might benefit from optogenetic defibrillation devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Sasse
- Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Maximilian Funken
- Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Thomas Beiert
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tobias Bruegmann
- Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Research Training Group 1873, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology, University Medical Center, Georg August University Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Makowka P, Bruegmann T, Dusend V, Malan D, Beiert T, Hesse M, Fleischmann BK, Sasse P. Optogenetic stimulation of G s-signaling in the heart with high spatio-temporal precision. Nat Commun 2019; 10:1281. [PMID: 30894542 PMCID: PMC6426906 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-09322-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The standard technique for investigating adrenergic effects on heart function is perfusion with pharmaceutical agonists, which does not provide high temporal or spatial precision. Herein we demonstrate that the light sensitive Gs-protein coupled receptor JellyOp enables optogenetic stimulation of Gs-signaling in cardiomyocytes and the whole heart. Illumination of transgenic embryonic stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes or of the right atrium of mice expressing JellyOp elevates cAMP levels and instantaneously accelerates spontaneous beating rates similar to pharmacological β-adrenergic stimulation. Light application to the dorsal left atrium instead leads to supraventricular extrabeats, indicating adverse effects of localized Gs-signaling. In isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes from JellyOp mice, we find increased Ca2+ currents, fractional cell shortening and relaxation rates after illumination enabling the analysis of differential Gs-signaling with high temporal precision. Thus, JellyOp expression allows localized and time-restricted Gs stimulation and will provide mechanistic insights into different effects of site-specific, long-lasting and pulsatile Gs activation. Studying adrenergic signalling in the heart requires perfusion with receptor agonists, which lacks cell specificity and spatiotemporal control. Here the authors use the light sensitive G-coupled receptor JellyOp to optogenetically control Gs-signaling in cardiomyocytes and intact hearts with high spatiotemporal precision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Makowka
- Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tobias Bruegmann
- Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany.,Research Training Group 1873, University of Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany.,Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology, University Medical Center, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Vanessa Dusend
- Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany.,Research Training Group 1873, University of Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Daniela Malan
- Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Thomas Beiert
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Hesse
- Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Bernd K Fleischmann
- Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Philipp Sasse
- Institute of Physiology I, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Cardiomyocyte-specific Gq signalling and arrhythmias: novel insights from DREADD technology. Cardiovasc Res 2019; 115:992-994. [DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvz052] [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: 12/11/2022] Open
|
28
|
Beiert T, Knappe V, Tiyerili V, Stöckigt F, Effelsberg V, Linhart M, Steinmetz M, Klein S, Schierwagen R, Trebicka J, Roell W, Nickenig G, Schrickel JW, Andrié RP. Chronic lower-dose relaxin administration protects from arrhythmia in experimental myocardial infarction due to anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties. Int J Cardiol 2018; 250:21-28. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2017.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
29
|
Eickelbeck D, Karapinar R, Herlitze S, Spoida K. Optogenetic Approaches for Controlling Neuronal Activity and Plasticity. HANDBOOK OF BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-812028-6.00016-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
30
|
Stöckigt F, Beiert T, Knappe V, Baris OR, Wiesner RJ, Clemen CS, Nickenig G, Andrié RP, Schrickel JW. Aging-related mitochondrial dysfunction facilitates the occurrence of serious arrhythmia after myocardial infarction. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 493:604-610. [PMID: 28867191 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.08.145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During aging a mosaic of normal cells and cells with mitochondrial deficiency develops in various tissues including the heart. Whether this contributes to higher susceptibility for arrhythmia following myocardial infarction (MI) is unknown. METHODS AND RESULTS Myocardial cryoinfarction was performed in 12-month-old transgenic mice with accelerated accumulation of deletions in mitochondrial DNA. Occurrence and pathogenesis of arrhythmia was investigated after two weeks. Holter-ECG recordings revealed higher rates of premature ventricular complexes (incidence > 10/24 h: 100% vs. 20%; p = 0.048) and more severe spontaneous arrhythmia during stress test in mutant mice with MI as compared to control mice with MI. Mice with mitochondrial dysfunction exhibited longer spontaneous AV-blocks (467 ± 26 ms vs. 377 ± 24 ms; p = 0.013), an increased probability for induction of ventricular tachycardia during in vivo electrophysiological investigation (22% vs. 9%; p = 0.044), and a reduced conduction velocity in the infarct borderzone (38.5 ± 0.5 cm/s vs. 55.3 ± 0.9 cm/s; p = 0.001). Furthermore, mutant mice exhibited a significant reduction of the phospho-Cx43/Cx43 ratio in right (0.59 ± 0.04 vs. 0.85 ± 0.01; p = 0.027) and left ventricular myocardium (0.72 ± 0.01 vs. 0.86 ± 0.02; p = 0.023). CONCLUSIONS Aging-related cardiac mosaic respiratory chain dysfunction facilitates the occurrence of spontaneous and inducible cardiac arrhythmia after myocardial infarction and is associated with slowing of electrical impulse propagation in the infarct borderzone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Florian Stöckigt
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Thomas Beiert
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University, Bonn, Germany
| | - Vincent Knappe
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University, Bonn, Germany
| | - Olivier R Baris
- Center for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Vegetative Physiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Rudolf J Wiesner
- Center for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute of Vegetative Physiology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
| | - Christoph S Clemen
- Center for Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry I, Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Department of Neurology, Heimer Institute for Muscle Research, University Hospital Bergmannsheil, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Georg Nickenig
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University, Bonn, Germany
| | - René P Andrié
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jan W Schrickel
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Beiert T, Tiyerili V, Knappe V, Effelsberg V, Linhart M, Stöckigt F, Klein S, Schierwagen R, Trebicka J, Nickenig G, Schrickel JW, Andrié RP. Relaxin reduces susceptibility to post-infarct atrial fibrillation in mice due to anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory properties. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.06.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
|
32
|
Hanna P, Rajendran PS, Ajijola OA, Vaseghi M, Andrew Armour J, Ardell JL, Shivkumar K. Cardiac neuroanatomy - Imaging nerves to define functional control. Auton Neurosci 2017; 207:48-58. [PMID: 28802636 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2017.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 07/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The autonomic nervous system regulates normal cardiovascular function and plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease. Further understanding of the interplay between the autonomic nervous system and cardiovascular system holds promise for the development of neuroscience-based cardiovascular therapeutics. To this end, techniques to image myocardial innervation will help provide a basis for understanding the fundamental underpinnings of cardiac neural control. In this review, we detail the evolution of gross and microscopic anatomical studies for functional mapping of cardiac neuroanatomy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Hanna
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pradeep S Rajendran
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology Program, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Olujimi A Ajijola
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marmar Vaseghi
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - J Andrew Armour
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jefrrey L Ardell
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology Program, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kalyanam Shivkumar
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology Program, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ma G, Wen S, He L, Huang Y, Wang Y, Zhou Y. Optogenetic toolkit for precise control of calcium signaling. Cell Calcium 2017; 64:36-46. [PMID: 28104276 PMCID: PMC5457325 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2017.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Calcium acts as a second messenger to regulate a myriad of cell functions, ranging from short-term muscle contraction and cell motility to long-term changes in gene expression and metabolism. To study the impact of Ca2+-modulated 'ON' and 'OFF' reactions in mammalian cells, pharmacological tools and 'caged' compounds are commonly used under various experimental conditions. The use of these reagents for precise control of Ca2+ signals, nonetheless, is impeded by lack of reversibility and specificity. The recently developed optogenetic tools, particularly those built upon engineered Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channels, provide exciting opportunities to remotely and non-invasively modulate Ca2+ signaling due to their superior spatiotemporal resolution and rapid reversibility. In this review, we briefly summarize the latest advances in the development of optogenetic tools (collectively termed as 'genetically encoded Ca2+ actuators', or GECAs) that are tailored for the interrogation of Ca2+ signaling, as well as their applications in remote neuromodulation and optogenetic immunomodulation. Our goal is to provide a general guide to choosing appropriate GECAs for optical control of Ca2+ signaling in cellulo, and in parallel, to stimulate further thoughts on evolving non-opsin-based optogenetics into a fully fledged technology for the study of Ca2+-dependent activities in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guolin Ma
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Shufan Wen
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lian He
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yun Huang
- Center for Epigenetics and Disease Prevention, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Youjun Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Yubin Zhou
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology Texas A&M University, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine Texas A&M University, Temple, TX 76504, USA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Crocini C, Ferrantini C, Pavone FS, Sacconi L. Optogenetics gets to the heart: A guiding light beyond defibrillation. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 130:132-139. [PMID: 28506694 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2017.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetics provides a tool for controlling the electrical activity of excitable cells by means of the interaction of light with light-gated ion channels. Despite the fact that optogenetics has been intensively utilized in the neurosciences, it has been more rarely employed as an instrument for studying cardiac pathophysiology. However, the advantages of optical approaches to perturb cardiac electrical activity are numerous, especially when the spatio-temporal qualities of light are utterly exploited. Here, we review the main breakthroughs employing optogenetics to perturb cardiac pathophysiology and attempt a comparison of methods and procedures that have employed optogenetics in the heart. We particularly focus on light-based defibrillation strategies that represent one of the latest achievements in this field. We highlight the important role of advanced optical methods for detecting and stimulating electrical activity for optimizing defibrillation strategies and, more generally, for dissecting novel insights in cardiac physiology. Finally, we discuss the main future perspectives that we envision for optogenetics in the heart, both in terms of translational applications and for addressing fundamental questions of cardiac function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Crocini
- European Laboratory for Non Linear Spectroscopy (LENS), Via Nello Carrara, 1 - 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, FI, Italy; National Institute of Optic (CNR-INO), Via Nello Carrara, 1 - 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy.
| | - Cecilia Ferrantini
- Division of Physiology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco S Pavone
- European Laboratory for Non Linear Spectroscopy (LENS), Via Nello Carrara, 1 - 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, FI, Italy; National Institute of Optic (CNR-INO), Via Nello Carrara, 1 - 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Florence, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Leonardo Sacconi
- European Laboratory for Non Linear Spectroscopy (LENS), Via Nello Carrara, 1 - 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, FI, Italy; National Institute of Optic (CNR-INO), Via Nello Carrara, 1 - 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Mühlhäuser WW, Fischer A, Weber W, Radziwill G. Optogenetics - Bringing light into the darkness of mammalian signal transduction. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2017; 1864:280-292. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2016.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Revised: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
|
36
|
Wang Y, Lin WK, Crawford W, Ni H, Bolton EL, Khan H, Shanks J, Bub G, Wang X, Paterson DJ, Zhang H, Galione A, Ebert SN, Terrar DA, Lei M. Optogenetic Control of Heart Rhythm by Selective Stimulation of Cardiomyocytes Derived from Pnmt + Cells in Murine Heart. Sci Rep 2017; 7:40687. [PMID: 28084430 PMCID: PMC5234027 DOI: 10.1038/srep40687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, channelrhodopsin 2 (ChR2) was specifically introduced into murine cells expressing the Phenylethanolamine n-methyltransferase (Pnmt) gene, which encodes for the enzyme responsible for conversion of noradrenaline to adrenaline. The new murine model enabled the identification of a distinctive class of Pnmt-expressing neuroendocrine cells and their descendants (i.e. Pnmt+ cell derived cells) within the heart. Here, we show that Pnmt+ cells predominantly localized to the left side of the adult heart. Remarkably, many of the Pnmt+ cells in the left atrium and ventricle appeared to be working cardiomyocytes based on their morphological appearance and functional properties. These Pnmt+ cell derived cardiomyocytes (PdCMs) are similar to conventional myocytes in morphological, electrical and contractile properties. By stimulating PdCMs selectively with blue light, we were able to control cardiac rhythm in the whole heart, isolated tissue preparations and single cardiomyocytes. Our new murine model effectively demonstrates functional dissection of cardiomyocyte subpopulations using optogenetics, and opens new frontiers of exploration into their physiological roles in normal heart function as well as their potential application for selective cardiac repair and regeneration strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanwen Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Wee Khang Lin
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Haibo Ni
- School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Emma L Bolton
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Huma Khan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Julia Shanks
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Gil Bub
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Xin Wang
- Faculty of Life Science, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - David J Paterson
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Henggui Zhang
- School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Antony Galione
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Steven N Ebert
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, USA
| | - Derek A Terrar
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ming Lei
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Photoreceptors are found in all kingdoms of life and mediate crucial responses to environmental challenges. Nature has evolved various types of photoresponsive protein structures with different chromophores and signaling concepts for their given purpose. The abundance of these signaling proteins as found nowadays by (meta-)genomic screens enriched the palette of optogenetic tools significantly. In addition, molecular insights into signal transduction mechanisms and design principles from biophysical studies and from structural and mechanistic comparison of homologous proteins opened seemingly unlimited possibilities for customizing the naturally occurring proteins for a given optogenetic task. Here, a brief overview on the photoreceptor concepts already established as optogenetic tools in natural or engineered form, their photochemistry and their signaling/design principles is given. Finally, so far not regarded photosensitive modules and protein architectures with potential for optogenetic application are described.
Collapse
|
38
|
Karathanos TV, Boyle PM, Trayanova NA. Light-based Approaches to Cardiac Arrhythmia Research: From Basic Science to Translational Applications. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS-CARDIOLOGY 2016; 10:47-60. [PMID: 27840581 PMCID: PMC5094582 DOI: 10.4137/cmc.s39711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/09/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Light has long been used to image the heart, but now it can be used to modulate its electrophysiological function. Imaging modalities and techniques have long constituted an indispensable part of arrhythmia research and treatment. Recently, advances in the fields of optogenetics and photodynamic therapy have provided scientists with more effective approaches for probing, studying and potentially devising new treatments for cardiac arrhythmias. This article is a review of research toward the application of these techniques. It contains (a) an overview of advancements in technology and research that have contributed to light-based cardiac applications and (b) a summary of current and potential future applications of light-based control of cardiac cells, including modulation of heart rhythm, manipulation of cardiac action potential morphology, quantitative analysis of arrhythmias, defibrillation and cardiac ablation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas V. Karathanos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Patrick M. Boyle
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Natalia A. Trayanova
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Bradley SJ, Tobin AB. Design of Next-Generation G Protein-Coupled Receptor Drugs: Linking Novel Pharmacology and In Vivo Animal Models. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2016; 56:535-59. [PMID: 26738479 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-011613-140012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Despite the fact that G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the most successful drug targets in history, this supergene family of cell surface receptors has yet to be fully exploited as targets in the treatment of human disease. Here, we present optimism that this may change in the future by reviewing the substantial progress made in the understanding of GPCR molecular pharmacology that has generated an extensive toolbox of ligand types that include orthosteric, allosteric, and bitopic ligands, many of which show signaling bias. We discuss how combining these advances with recently described transgenic, chemical genetic, and optogenetic animal models will provide the framework to allow for the rational design of next-generation GPCR drugs that possess increased therapeutic efficacy and decreased adverse/toxic responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie J Bradley
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 9HN United Kingdom; ,
| | - Andrew B Tobin
- MRC Toxicology Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 9HN United Kingdom; ,
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Anti-atherosclerotic effects of serelaxin in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. Atherosclerosis 2016; 251:430-437. [PMID: 27341752 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2016.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Serelaxin (SLX) is a recombinant form of human relaxin-2, a naturally occurring peptide that regulates maternal cardiovascular adaptations to pregnancy. It is unclear whether SLX has a therapeutic effect on atherosclerosis. Therefore, we investigated direct vascular effects of SLX in a mouse model of atherosclerosis. METHODS 6-8 week-old female apolipoprotein E-deficient mice were fed a high-fat, cholesterol-rich diet for 6 weeks and additionally received a continuous treatment with vehicle or SLX (0.05 or 0.1 μg/h), during the last 4 weeks, via subcutaneously implanted osmotic mini-pumps. Vascular oxidative stress, vasorelaxation and atherosclerotic plaque development were assessed. RESULTS Vascular oxidative stress was reduced in SLX-treated mice (vehicle: 322.67 RLU/s, SLX 0.05 μg/h: 119.76 RLU/s (p < 0.001 vs. vehicle), SLX 0.1 μg/h: 109.33 RLU/s (p < 0.001 vs. vehicle; p = 0.967 vs. 0.05 μg/h SLX)). Further SLX improved endothelium-dependent vasodilatation without influencing endothelium-independent vasorelaxation. Atherosclerotic plaque development was significantly reduced by SLX (vehicle: 0.38 ± 0.02 mm(2), 0.05 μg/h SLX: 0.32 ± 0.02 mm(2) (p = 0.047 vs. vehicle), 0.1 μg/h SLX: 0.29 ± 0.02 mm(2) (p = 0.002 vs. vehicle; p = 0.490 vs. 0.05 μg/h SLX)). Neither vascular macrophage, T-cell or neutrophil infiltration, nor collagen/vascular smooth muscle cell content differed between the groups. We observed a significant down-regulation of the angiotensin II type 1a receptor and a decrease in IL-6 and an increase in IL-10 plasma concentrations. CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrates novel pleiotropic effects of SLX on vascular oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerotic plaque burden. Therefore, SLX could serve as a new drug for the treatment of atherosclerosis-related diseases.
Collapse
|
41
|
Cardiac Optogenetics: Enhancement by All-trans-Retinal. Sci Rep 2015; 5:16542. [PMID: 26568132 PMCID: PMC4644984 DOI: 10.1038/srep16542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
All-trans-Retinal (ATR) is a photosensitizer, serving as the chromophore for depolarizing and hyperpolarizing light-sensitive ion channels and pumps (opsins), recently employed as fast optical actuators. In mammalian optogenetic applications (in brain and heart), endogenous ATR availability is not considered a limiting factor, yet it is unclear how ATR modulation may affect the response to optical stimulation. We hypothesized that exogenous ATR may improve light responsiveness of cardiac cells modified by Channelrhodopsin2 (ChR2), hence lowering the optical pacing energy. In virally-transduced (Ad-ChR2(H134R)-eYFP) light-sensitive cardiac syncytium in vitro, ATR supplements ≤2 μM improved cardiomyocyte viability and augmented ChR2 membrane expression several-fold, while >4 μM was toxic. Employing integrated optical actuation (470 nm) and optical mapping, we found that 1–2 μM ATR dramatically reduced optical pacing energy (over 30 times) to several μW/mm2, lowest values reported to date, but also caused action potential prolongation, minor changes in calcium transients and no change in conduction. Theoretical analysis helped explain ATR-caused reduction of optical excitation threshold in cardiomyocytes. We conclude that cardiomyocytes operate at non-saturating retinal levels, and carefully-dosed exogenous ATR can enhance the performance of ChR2 in cardiac cells and yield energy benefits over orders of magnitude for optogenetic stimulation.
Collapse
|
42
|
Zaglia T, Pianca N, Borile G, Da Broi F, Richter C, Campione M, Lehnart SE, Luther S, Corrado D, Miquerol L, Mongillo M. Optogenetic determination of the myocardial requirements for extrasystoles by cell type-specific targeting of ChannelRhodopsin-2. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:E4495-504. [PMID: 26204914 PMCID: PMC4538656 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1509380112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Extrasystoles lead to several consequences, ranging from uneventful palpitations to lethal ventricular arrhythmias, in the presence of pathologies, such as myocardial ischemia. The role of working versus conducting cardiomyocytes, as well as the tissue requirements (minimal cell number) for the generation of extrasystoles, and the properties leading ectopies to become arrhythmia triggers (topology), in the normal and diseased heart, have not been determined directly in vivo. Here, we used optogenetics in transgenic mice expressing ChannelRhodopsin-2 selectively in either cardiomyocytes or the conduction system to achieve cell type-specific, noninvasive control of heart activity with high spatial and temporal resolution. By combining measurement of optogenetic tissue activation in vivo and epicardial voltage mapping in Langendorff-perfused hearts, we demonstrated that focal ectopies require, in the normal mouse heart, the simultaneous depolarization of at least 1,300-1,800 working cardiomyocytes or 90-160 Purkinje fibers. The optogenetic assay identified specific areas in the heart that were highly susceptible to forming extrasystolic foci, and such properties were correlated to the local organization of the Purkinje fiber network, which was imaged in three dimensions using optical projection tomography. Interestingly, during the acute phase of myocardial ischemia, focal ectopies arising from this location, and including both Purkinje fibers and the surrounding working cardiomyocytes, have the highest propensity to trigger sustained arrhythmias. In conclusion, we used cell-specific optogenetics to determine with high spatial resolution and cell type specificity the requirements for the generation of extrasystoles and the factors causing ectopies to be arrhythmia triggers during myocardial ischemia.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Arrhythmias, Cardiac/complications
- Arrhythmias, Cardiac/pathology
- Arrhythmias, Cardiac/physiopathology
- Cardiac Complexes, Premature/complications
- Cardiac Complexes, Premature/pathology
- Cardiac Complexes, Premature/physiopathology
- Channelrhodopsins
- Connexins/metabolism
- Coronary Vessels/pathology
- Coronary Vessels/physiopathology
- Electrophysiological Phenomena
- Humans
- Integrases/metabolism
- Ligation
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Transgenic
- Myocardial Ischemia/complications
- Myocardial Ischemia/pathology
- Myocardial Ischemia/physiopathology
- Myocardium/metabolism
- Myocardium/pathology
- Myocytes, Cardiac/metabolism
- Myocytes, Cardiac/pathology
- Optogenetics/methods
- Organ Specificity
- Purkinje Fibers/metabolism
- Purkinje Fibers/pathology
- Purkinje Fibers/physiopathology
- Gap Junction alpha-5 Protein
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tania Zaglia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy; Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, 35129 Padova, Italy
| | - Nicola Pianca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy; Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, 35129 Padova, Italy
| | - Giulia Borile
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy; Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, 35129 Padova, Italy
| | | | - Claudia Richter
- Research Group Biomedical Physics, Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, 37077 Gottingen, Germany
| | - Marina Campione
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy; Neuroscience Institute, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Stephan E Lehnart
- Heart Research Center Göttingen, Clinic of Cardiology and Pulmonology, University Medical Center, 37077 Gottingen, Germany; German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Göttingen, 37077 Gottingen, Germany
| | - Stefan Luther
- Research Group Biomedical Physics, Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, 37077 Gottingen, Germany; Heart Research Center Göttingen, Clinic of Cardiology and Pulmonology, University Medical Center, 37077 Gottingen, Germany; German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Göttingen, 37077 Gottingen, Germany; Institute for Nonlinear Dynamics, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, 37077 Gottingen, Germany
| | - Domenico Corrado
- Department of Cardiologic, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Lucile Miquerol
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS Institut de Biologie du Développement de Marseille UMR 7288, 13288 Marseille, France
| | - Marco Mongillo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy; Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, 35129 Padova, Italy; Neuroscience Institute, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 35121 Padova, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Computational modeling of cardiac optogenetics: Methodology overview & review of findings from simulations. Comput Biol Med 2015; 65:200-8. [PMID: 26002074 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2015.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Revised: 04/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac optogenetics is emerging as an exciting new potential avenue to enable spatiotemporally precise control of excitable cells and tissue in the heart with low-energy optical stimuli. This approach involves the expression of exogenous light-sensitive proteins (opsins) in target heart tissue via viral gene or cell delivery. Preliminary experiments in optogenetically-modified cells, tissue, and organisms have made great strides towards demonstrating the feasibility of basic applications, including the use of light stimuli to pace or disrupt reentrant activity. However, it remains unknown whether techniques based on this intriguing technology could be scaled up and used in humans for novel clinical applications, such as pain-free optical defibrillation or dynamic modulation of action potential shape. A key step towards answering such questions is to explore potential optogenetics-based therapies using sophisticated computer simulation tools capable of realistically representing opsin delivery and light stimulation in biophysically detailed, patient-specific models of the human heart. This review provides (1) a detailed overview of the methodological developments necessary to represent optogenetics-based solutions in existing virtual heart platforms and (2) a survey of findings that have been derived from such simulations and a critical assessment of their significance with respect to the progress of the field.
Collapse
|
44
|
Boyle PM, Karathanos TV, Trayanova NA. "Beauty is a light in the heart": the transformative potential of optogenetics for clinical applications in cardiovascular medicine. Trends Cardiovasc Med 2015; 25:73-81. [PMID: 25453984 PMCID: PMC4336805 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2014.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2014] [Revised: 10/04/2014] [Accepted: 10/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Optogenetics is an exciting new technology in which viral gene or cell delivery is used to inscribe light sensitivity in excitable tissue to enable optical control of bioelectric behavior. Initial progress in the fledgling domain of cardiac optogenetics has included in vitro expression of various light-sensitive proteins in cell monolayers and transgenic animals to demonstrate an array of potentially useful applications, including light-based pacing, silencing of spontaneous activity, and spiral wave termination. In parallel to these developments, the cardiac modeling community has developed a versatile computational framework capable of realistically simulating optogenetics in biophysically detailed, patient-specific representations of the human heart, enabling the exploration of potential clinical applications in a predictive virtual platform. Toward the ultimate goal of assessing the feasibility and potential impact of optogenetics-based therapies in cardiovascular medicine, this review provides (1) a detailed synopsis of in vivo, in vitro, and in silico developments in the field and (2) a critical assessment of how existing clinical technology for gene/cell delivery and intra-cardiac illumination could be harnessed to achieve such lofty goals as light-based arrhythmia termination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick M Boyle
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, 316 Hackerman Hall, 3400 N Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD.
| | - Thomas V Karathanos
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, 316 Hackerman Hall, 3400 N Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Natalia A Trayanova
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, 316 Hackerman Hall, 3400 N Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Ambrosi CM, Klimas A, Yu J, Entcheva E. Cardiac applications of optogenetics. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2014; 115:294-304. [PMID: 25035999 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2014.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
In complex multicellular systems, such as the brain or the heart, the ability to selectively perturb and observe the response of individual components at the cellular level and with millisecond resolution in time, is essential for mechanistic understanding of function. Optogenetics uses genetic encoding of light sensitivity (by the expression of microbial opsins) to provide such capabilities for manipulation, recording, and control by light with cell specificity and high spatiotemporal resolution. As an optical approach, it is inherently scalable for remote and parallel interrogation of biological function at the tissue level; with implantable miniaturized devices, the technique is uniquely suitable for in vivo tracking of function, as illustrated by numerous applications in the brain. Its expansion into the cardiac area has been slow. Here, using examples from published research and original data, we focus on optogenetics applications to cardiac electrophysiology, specifically dealing with the ability to manipulate membrane voltage by light with implications for cardiac pacing, cardioversion, cell communication, and arrhythmia research, in general. We discuss gene and cell delivery methods of inscribing light sensitivity in cardiac tissue, functionality of the light-sensitive ion channels within different types of cardiac cells, utility in probing electrical coupling between different cell types, approaches and design solutions to all-optical electrophysiology by the combination of optogenetic sensors and actuators, and specific challenges in moving towards in vivo cardiac optogenetics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina M Ambrosi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794-8661, USA
| | - Aleksandra Klimas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794-8661, USA
| | - Jinzhu Yu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794-8661, USA
| | - Emilia Entcheva
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794-8661, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Entcheva E. Fiat lux in understanding cardiac pacing, resynchronization and signalling by way of optogenetics. Cardiovasc Res 2014; 102:342-3. [PMID: 24760549 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvu109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Entcheva
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook 11790, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|