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Casado-Arroyo R, Bernardi M, Sabouret P, Franculli G, Tamargo J, Spadafora L, Lellouche N, Biondi-Zoccai G, Toth PP, Banach M. Investigative agents for atrial fibrillation: agonists and stimulants, progress and expectations. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2024; 33:967-978. [PMID: 39096248 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2024.2388583] [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: 05/26/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia. Its prevalence has increased due to worldwide populations that are aging in combination with the growing incidence of risk factors associated. Recent advances in our understanding of AF pathophysiology and the identification of nodal players involved in AF-promoting atrial remodeling highlights potential opportunities for new therapeutic approaches. AREAS COVERED This detailed review summarizes recent developments in the field antiarrhythmic drugs in the field AF. EXPERT OPINION The current situation is far than optimal. Despite clear unmet needs in drug development in the field of AF treatment, the current development of new drugs is absent. The need for a molecule with absence of cardiac and non-cardiac toxicity in the short and long term is a limitation in the field. Improvement in the understanding of AF genetics, pathophysiology, molecular alterations, big data and artificial intelligence with the objective to provide a personalized AF treatment will be the cornerstone of AF treatment in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben Casado-Arroyo
- Department of Cardiology, H.U.B.-Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marco Bernardi
- Department of Clinical, Internal Medicine, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Pierre Sabouret
- Heart Institute, ACTION Study Group-CHU Pitié-Salpétrière Paris, Paris, France
- Collège National des Cardiologues Français (CNCF), Paris, France
| | - Giuseppe Franculli
- Department of Clinical, Internal Medicine, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Juan Tamargo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Instituto De Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luigi Spadafora
- Department of Clinical, Internal Medicine, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicolas Lellouche
- Service de Cardiologie, AP-HP, University Hospital Henri Mondor, Créteil, France
| | - Giuseppe Biondi-Zoccai
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, Cotignola, Italy
| | - Peter P Toth
- CGH Medical Center, Sterling, IL, USA
- Cicarrone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology, Medical University of Lodz Lodz Poland, Lodz, Poland
- Department of Cardiology and Congenital Diseases of Adults, Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital Research Institute Lodz Poland, Lodz, Poland
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2
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Erkan O, Ozturk N, Ozdemir S. Impact of quetiapine on ion channels and contractile dynamics in rat ventricular myocyte. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 976:176674. [PMID: 38810715 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176674] [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: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Antipsychotic drugs often lead to adverse effects, including those related to the cardiovascular system. Of these, quetiapine is known to cause significant changes in the QT interval although the underlying mechanism remains mysterious, prompting us to examine its effects on cardiac electrophysiological properties. Therefore, we investigated the effect of quetiapine on contraction, action potential (AP), and the associated membrane currents such as L-type Ca2+ and K+ using the whole-cell patch clamp method to examine its impacts on isolated rat ventricular myocytes. Our results showed that (1) quetiapine reduces cell contractility in a concentration-dependent manner and (2) leads to a significant prolongation in the duration of AP in isolated ventricular myocytes. This effect was both concentration and frequency-dependent; (3) quetiapine significantly decreased the Ca2+, transient outward K+, and steady-state K+ currents. However, only high concentration of quetiapine (100 μM) could significantly change the activation and reactivation kinetics of L-type Ca2+ channels. This study demonstrates that QT extension induced by quetiapine is mainly associated with the prolongation of AP. Moreover, quetiapine caused a significant decrease in contractile force and excitability of ventricular myocytes by suppressing Ca2+ and K+ currents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orhan Erkan
- Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine Department of Biophysics, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Nihal Ozturk
- Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine Department of Biophysics, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Semir Ozdemir
- Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine Department of Biophysics, Antalya, Turkey.
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3
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Owais A, Barney M, Ly OT, Brown G, Chen H, Sridhar A, Pavel A, Khetani SR, Darbar D. Genetics and Pharmacogenetics of Atrial Fibrillation: A Mechanistic Perspective. JACC Basic Transl Sci 2024; 9:918-934. [PMID: 39170958 PMCID: PMC11334418 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2023.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
The heritability of atrial fibrillation (AF) is well established. Over the last decade genetic architecture of AF has been unraveled by genome-wide association studies and family-based studies. However, the translation of these genetic discoveries has lagged owing to an incomplete understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying the genetic variants, challenges in classifying variants of uncertain significance (VUS), and limitations of existing disease models. We review the mechanistic insight provided by basic science studies regarding AF mechanisms, recent developments in high-throughput classification of VUS, and advances in bioengineered cardiac models for developing personalized therapy for AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asia Owais
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Miles Barney
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Olivia Thao Ly
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Grace Brown
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Hanna Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Arvind Sridhar
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Arif Pavel
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Salman R. Khetani
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Dawood Darbar
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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4
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Segura É, Zhao J, Broszczak M, Audet F, Sauvé R, Parent L. Investigating the Impact of Electrostatic Interactions on Calmodulin Binding and Ca 2+-Dependent Activation of the Calcium-Gated Potassium SK4 Channel. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4255. [PMID: 38673845 PMCID: PMC11050286 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Ca2+ binding to the ubiquitous Ca2+ sensing protein calmodulin (CaM) activates the intermediate conductance Ca2+-activated SK4 channel. Potential hydrophilic pockets for CaM binding have been identified at the intracellular HA and HB helices in the C-terminal of SK4 from the three published cryo-EM structures of SK4. Single charge reversal substitutions at either site, significantly weakened the pull-down of SK4 by CaM wild-type (CaM), and decreased the TRAM-34 sensitive outward K+ current densities in native HEK293T cells when compared with SK4 WT measured under the same conditions. Only the doubly substituted SK4 R352D/R355D (HB helix) obliterated the CaM-mediated pull-down and thwarted outward K+ currents. However, overexpression of CaM E84K/E87K, which had been predicted to face the arginine doublet, restored the CaM-mediated pull-down of SK4 R352D/R355D and normalized its whole-cell current density. Virtual analysis of the putative salt bridges supports a unique role for the positively charged arginine doublet at the HB helix into anchoring the interaction with the negatively charged CaM glutamate 84 and 87 CaM. Our findings underscore the unique contribution of electrostatic interactions in carrying CaM binding onto SK4 and support the role of the C-terminal HB helix to the Ca2+-dependent gating process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Émilie Segura
- Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie, Faculté de Médecine, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H1T 1C8, Canada; (É.S.); (F.A.)
| | - Juan Zhao
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H1T 1C8, Canada; (J.Z.); (M.B.)
| | - Marlena Broszczak
- Centre de Recherche de l’Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H1T 1C8, Canada; (J.Z.); (M.B.)
| | - Frédéric Audet
- Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie, Faculté de Médecine, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H1T 1C8, Canada; (É.S.); (F.A.)
| | - Rémy Sauvé
- Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, 2900 Bd Édouard-Montpetit, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada;
| | - Lucie Parent
- Département de Pharmacologie et Physiologie, Faculté de Médecine, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H1T 1C8, Canada; (É.S.); (F.A.)
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5
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Yfanti C, Vestbjerg B, Van't Westende J, Edvardsson N, Monfort LM, Olesen MS, Bentzen BH, Grunnet M, Eveleens Maarse BC, Diness JG, Kemme MJB, Sørensen U, Moerland M, van Esdonk MJ, Klaassen ES, Gal P, Holst AG. A phase 1 trial of AP30663, a K Ca2 channel inhibitor in development for conversion of atrial fibrillation. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2024; 90:1027-1035. [PMID: 37990600 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.15973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS AP30663 is a novel compound under development for pharmacological conversion of atrial fibrillation by targeting the small conductance Ca2+ activated K+ (KCa2) channel. The aim of this extension phase 1 study was to test AP30663 at higher single doses compared to the first-in-human trial. METHODS Sixteen healthy male volunteers were randomized into 2 cohorts: 6- and 8-mg/kg intravenous single-dose administration of AP30663 vs. placebo. Safety, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data were collected. RESULTS AP30663 was associated with mild and transient infusion site reactions with no clustering of other adverse events but with an estimated maximum mean QTcF interval prolongation of 45.2 ms (95% confidence interval 31.5-58.9) in the 6 mg/kg dose level and 50.4 ms (95% confidence interval 36.7-64.0) with 8 mg/kg. Pharmacokinetics was dose proportional with terminal half-life of around 3 h. CONCLUSION AP30663 in doses up to 8 mg/kg was associated with mild and transient infusion site reactions and an increase of the QTcF interval. Supporting Information support that the QTc effect may be explained by an off-target inhibition of the IKr channel.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nils Edvardsson
- Acesion Pharma ApS, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Cardiology, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | | | - Bo Hjorth Bentzen
- Acesion Pharma ApS, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Boukje C Eveleens Maarse
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Matthijs Moerland
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Pim Gal
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
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6
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Xu J, Zhang D, Ma Y, Du H, Wang Y, Luo W, Wang R, Yi F. ROS in diabetic atria regulate SK2 degradation by Atrogin-1 through the NF-κB signaling pathway. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:105735. [PMID: 38336298 PMCID: PMC10938124 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.105735] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
One of the independent risk factors for atrial fibrillation is diabetes mellitus (DM); however, the underlying mechanisms causing atrial fibrillation in DM are unknown. The underlying mechanism of Atrogin-1-mediated SK2 degradation and associated signaling pathways are unclear. The aim of this study was to elucidate the relationship among reactive oxygen species (ROS), the NF-κB signaling pathway, and Atrogin-1 protein expression in the atrial myocardia of DM mice. We found that SK2 expression was downregulated comitant with increased ROS generation and enhanced NF-κB signaling activation in the atrial cardiomyocytes of DM mice. These observations were mimicked by exogenously applicating H2O2 and by high glucose culture conditions in HL-1 cells. Inhibition of ROS production by diphenyleneiodonium chloride or silencing of NF-κB by siRNA decreased the protein expression of NF-κB and Atrogin-1 and increased that of SK2 in HL-1 cells with high glucose culture. Moreover, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay demonstrated that NF-κB/p65 directly binds to the promoter of the FBXO32 gene (encoding Atrogin-1), regulating the FBXO32 transcription. Finally, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of curcumin, known as a NF-κB inhibitor, on Atrogin-1 and SK2 expression in DM mice and confirmed that oral administration of curcumin for 4 weeks significantly suppressed Atrogin-1 expression and protected SK2 expression against hyperglycemia. In summary, the results from this study indicated that the ROS/NF-κB signaling pathway participates in Atrogin-1-mediated SK2 regulation in the atria of streptozotocin-induced DM mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Xu
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China; Senior Department of Cardiology, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yibo Ma
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hui Du
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wenping Luo
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Vascular Disease, Shaanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Ruxing Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Wuxi People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fu Yi
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
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7
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Butler AS, Ascione R, Marrion NV, Harmer SC, Hancox JC. In situ monolayer patch clamp of acutely stimulated human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes promotes consistent electrophysiological responses to SK channel inhibition. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3185. [PMID: 38326449 PMCID: PMC10850090 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53571-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CMs) represent an in vitro model of cardiac function. Isolated iPSC-CMs, however, exhibit electrophysiological heterogeneity which hinders their utility in the study of certain cardiac currents. In the healthy adult heart, the current mediated by small conductance, calcium-activated potassium (SK) channels (ISK) is atrial-selective. Functional expression of ISK within atrial-like iPSC-CMs has not been explored thoroughly. The present study therefore aimed to investigate atrial-like iPSC-CMs as a model system for the study of ISK. iPSCs were differentiated using retinoic acid (RA) to produce iPSC-CMs which exhibited an atrial-like phenotype (RA-iPSC-CMs). Only 18% of isolated RA-iPSC-CMs responded to SK channel inhibition by UCL1684 and isolated iPSC-CMs exhibited substantial cell-to-cell electrophysiological heterogeneity. This variability was significantly reduced by patch clamp of RA-iPSC-CMs in situ as a monolayer (iPSC-ML). A novel method of electrical stimulation was developed to facilitate recording from iPSC-MLs via In situ Monolayer Patch clamp of Acutely Stimulated iPSC-CMs (IMPASC). Using IMPASC, > 95% of iPSC-MLs could be paced at a 1 Hz. In contrast to isolated RA-iPSC-CMs, 100% of RA-iPSC-MLs responded to UCL1684, with APD50 being prolonged by 16.0 ± 2.0 ms (p < 0.0001; n = 12). These data demonstrate that in conjunction with IMPASC, RA-iPSC-MLs represent an improved model for the study of ISK. IMPASC may be of wider value in the study of other ion channels that are inconsistently expressed in isolated iPSC-CMs and in pharmacological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Butler
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Raimondo Ascione
- Bristol Heart Institute and Translational Biomedical Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS2 8HW, UK
| | - Neil V Marrion
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Stephen C Harmer
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK.
| | - Jules C Hancox
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK.
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8
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Babini H, Jiménez-Sábado V, Stogova E, Arslanova A, Butt M, Dababneh S, Asghari P, Moore EDW, Claydon TW, Chiamvimonvat N, Hove-Madsen L, Tibbits GF. hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes as a model to study the role of small-conductance Ca 2+-activated K + (SK) ion channel variants associated with atrial fibrillation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1298007. [PMID: 38304423 PMCID: PMC10830749 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1298007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common arrhythmia, has been associated with different electrophysiological, molecular, and structural alterations in atrial cardiomyocytes. Therefore, more studies are required to elucidate the genetic and molecular basis of AF. Various genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have strongly associated different single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with AF. One of these GWAS identified the rs13376333 risk SNP as the most significant one from the 1q21 chromosomal region. The rs13376333 risk SNP is intronic to the KCNN3 gene that encodes for small conductance calcium-activated potassium channels type 3 (SK3). However, the functional electrophysiological effects of this variant are not known. SK channels represent a unique family of K+ channels, primarily regulated by cytosolic Ca2+ concentration, and different studies support their critical role in the regulation of atrial excitability and consequently in the development of arrhythmias like AF. Since different studies have shown that both upregulation and downregulation of SK3 channels can lead to arrhythmias by different mechanisms, an important goal is to elucidate whether the rs13376333 risk SNP is a gain-of-function (GoF) or a loss-of-function (LoF) variant. A better understanding of the functional consequences associated with these SNPs could influence clinical practice guidelines by improving genotype-based risk stratification and personalized treatment. Although research using native human atrial cardiomyocytes and animal models has provided useful insights, each model has its limitations. Therefore, there is a critical need to develop a human-derived model that represents human physiology more accurately than existing animal models. In this context, research with human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) and subsequent generation of cardiomyocytes derived from hiPSC (hiPSC-CMs) has revealed the underlying causes of various cardiovascular diseases and identified treatment opportunities that were not possible using in vitro or in vivo studies with animal models. Thus, the ability to generate atrial cardiomyocytes and atrial tissue derived from hiPSCs from human/patients with specific genetic diseases, incorporating novel genetic editing tools to generate isogenic controls and organelle-specific reporters, and 3D bioprinting of atrial tissue could be essential to study AF pathophysiological mechanisms. In this review, we will first give an overview of SK-channel function, its role in atrial fibrillation and outline pathophysiological mechanisms of KCNN3 risk SNPs. We will then highlight the advantages of using the hiPSC-CM model to investigate SNPs associated with AF, while addressing limitations and best practices for rigorous hiPSC studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hosna Babini
- Cellular and Regenerative Medicine Centre, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Verónica Jiménez-Sábado
- Cellular and Regenerative Medicine Centre, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- IIB SANT PAU, and CIBERCV, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ekaterina Stogova
- Cellular and Regenerative Medicine Centre, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Alia Arslanova
- Cellular and Regenerative Medicine Centre, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Mariam Butt
- Cellular and Regenerative Medicine Centre, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Saif Dababneh
- Cellular and Regenerative Medicine Centre, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Parisa Asghari
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Edwin D. W. Moore
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Thomas W. Claydon
- Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | | | - Leif Hove-Madsen
- IIB SANT PAU, and CIBERCV, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas de Barcelona (IIBB-CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Glen F. Tibbits
- Cellular and Regenerative Medicine Centre, BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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9
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Chapotte-Baldacci CA, Pierre M, Djemai M, Pouliot V, Chahine M. Biophysical properties of Na V1.5 channels from atrial-like and ventricular-like cardiomyocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20685. [PMID: 38001331 PMCID: PMC10673932 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47310-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Generating atrial-like cardiomyocytes derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) is crucial for modeling and treating atrial-related diseases, such as atrial arrythmias including atrial fibrillations. However, it is essential to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the electrophysiological properties of these cells. The objective of the present study was to investigate the molecular, electrical, and biophysical properties of several ion channels, especially NaV1.5 channels, in atrial hiPSC cardiomyocytes. Atrial cardiomyocytes were obtained by the differentiation of hiPSCs treated with retinoic acid (RA). The quality of the atrial specification was assessed by qPCR, immunocytofluorescence, and western blotting. The electrophysiological properties of action potentials (APs), Ca2+ dynamics, K+ and Na+ currents were investigated using patch-clamp and optical mapping approaches. We evaluated mRNA transcript and protein expressions to show that atrial cardiomyocytes expressed higher atrial- and sinoatrial-specific markers (MYL7, CACNA1D) and lower ventricular-specific markers (MYL2, CACNA1C, GJA1) than ventricular cardiomyocytes. The amplitude, duration, and steady-state phase of APs in atrial cardiomyocytes decreased, and had a shape similar to that of mature atrial cardiomyocytes. Interestingly, NaV1.5 channels in atrial cardiomyocytes exhibited lower mRNA transcripts and protein expression, which could explain the lower current densities recorded by patch-clamp. Moreover, Na+ currents exhibited differences in activation and inactivation parameters. These differences could be explained by an increase in SCN2B regulatory subunit expression and a decrease in SCN1B and SCN4B regulatory subunit expressions. Our results show that a RA treatment made it possible to obtain atrial cardiomyocytes and investigate differences in NaV1.5 channel properties between ventricular- and atrial-like cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles-Albert Chapotte-Baldacci
- Department of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, 2601, chemin de la Canardière, Quebec City, QC, G1J 2G3, Canada
| | - Marion Pierre
- Department of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, 2601, chemin de la Canardière, Quebec City, QC, G1J 2G3, Canada
| | - Mohammed Djemai
- Department of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, 2601, chemin de la Canardière, Quebec City, QC, G1J 2G3, Canada
| | - Valérie Pouliot
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, 2601, chemin de la Canardière, Quebec City, QC, G1J 2G3, Canada
| | - Mohamed Chahine
- CERVO Brain Research Centre, 2601, chemin de la Canardière, Quebec City, QC, G1J 2G3, Canada.
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10
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Huang J, Wu B, Qin P, Cheng Y, Zhang Z, Chen Y. Research on atrial fibrillation mechanisms and prediction of therapeutic prospects: focus on the autonomic nervous system upstream pathways. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1270452. [PMID: 38028487 PMCID: PMC10663310 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1270452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common clinical arrhythmia disorder. It can easily lead to complications such as thromboembolism, palpitations, dizziness, angina, heart failure, and stroke. The disability and mortality rates associated with AF are extremely high, significantly affecting the quality of life and work of patients. With the deepening of research into the brain-heart connection, the link between AF and stroke has become increasingly evident. AF is now categorized as either Known Atrial Fibrillation (KAF) or Atrial Fibrillation Detected After Stroke (AFDAS), with stroke as the baseline. This article, through a literature review, briefly summarizes the current pathogenesis of KAF and AFDAS, as well as the status of their clinical pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. It has been found that the existing treatments for KAF and AFDAS have limited efficacy and are often associated with significant adverse reactions and a risk of recurrence. Moreover, most drugs and treatment methods tend to focus on a single mechanism pathway. For example, drugs targeting ion channels primarily modulate ion channels and have relatively limited impact on other pathways. This limitation underscores the need to break away from the "one disease, one target, one drug/measurement" dogma for the development of innovative treatments, promoting both drug and non-drug therapies and significantly improving the quality of clinical treatment. With the increasing refinement of the overall mechanisms of KAF and AFDAS, a deeper exploration of physiological pathology, and comprehensive research on the brain-heart relationship, it is imperative to shift from long-term symptom management to more precise and optimized treatment methods that are effective for almost all patients. We anticipate that drugs or non-drug therapies targeting the central nervous system and upstream pathways can guide the simultaneous treatment of multiple downstream pathways in AF, thereby becoming a new breakthrough in AF treatment research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjie Huang
- Postgraduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Bangqi Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Peng Qin
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yupei Cheng
- Postgraduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Ziyi Zhang
- Postgraduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yameng Chen
- Postgraduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
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11
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Rahman MA, Orfali R, Dave N, Lam E, Naguib N, Nam YW, Zhang M. K Ca 2.2 (KCNN2): A physiologically and therapeutically important potassium channel. J Neurosci Res 2023; 101:1699-1710. [PMID: 37466411 PMCID: PMC10932612 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.25233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
One group of the K+ ion channels, the small-conductance Ca2+ -activated potassium channels (KCa 2.x, also known as SK channels family), is widely expressed in neurons as well as the heart, endothelial cells, etc. They are named small-conductance Ca2+ -activated potassium channels (SK channels) due to their comparatively low single-channel conductance of about ~10 pS. These channels are insensitive to changes in membrane potential and are activated solely by rises in the intracellular Ca2+ . According to the phylogenic research done on the KCa 2.x channels family, there are three channels' subtypes: KCa 2.1, KCa 2.2, and KCa 2.3, which are encoded by KCNN1, KCNN2, and KCNN3 genes, respectively. The KCa 2.x channels regulate neuronal excitability and responsiveness to synaptic input patterns. KCa 2.x channels inhibit excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) in neuronal dendrites and contribute to the medium afterhyperpolarization (mAHP) that follows the action potential bursts. Multiple brain regions, including the hippocampus, express the KCa 2.2 channel encoded by the KCNN2 gene on chromosome 5. Of particular interest, rat cerebellar Purkinje cells express KCa 2.2 channels, which are crucial for various cellular processes during development and maturation. Patients with a loss-of-function of KCNN2 mutations typically exhibit extrapyramidal symptoms, cerebellar ataxia, motor and language developmental delays, and intellectual disabilities. Studies have revealed that autosomal dominant neurodevelopmental movement disorders resembling rodent symptoms are caused by heterozygous loss-of-function mutations, which are most likely to induce KCNN2 haploinsufficiency. The KCa 2.2 channel is a promising drug target for spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs). SCAs exhibit the dysregulation of firing in cerebellar Purkinje cells which is one of the first signs of pathology. Thus, selective KCa 2.2 modulators are promising potential therapeutics for SCAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Asikur Rahman
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Razan Orfali
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Nikita Dave
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Elyn Lam
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Nadeen Naguib
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Young-Woo Nam
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
| | - Miao Zhang
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, California 92618, USA
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12
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Ni H, Morotti S, Zhang X, Dobrev D, Grandi E. Integrative human atrial modelling unravels interactive protein kinase A and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II signalling as key determinants of atrial arrhythmogenesis. Cardiovasc Res 2023; 119:2294-2311. [PMID: 37523735 PMCID: PMC11318383 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvad118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most prevalent clinical arrhythmia, is associated with atrial remodelling manifesting as acute and chronic alterations in expression, function, and regulation of atrial electrophysiological and Ca2+-handling processes. These AF-induced modifications crosstalk and propagate across spatial scales creating a complex pathophysiological network, which renders AF resistant to existing pharmacotherapies that predominantly target transmembrane ion channels. Developing innovative therapeutic strategies requires a systems approach to disentangle quantitatively the pro-arrhythmic contributions of individual AF-induced alterations. METHODS AND RESULTS Here, we built a novel computational framework for simulating electrophysiology and Ca2+-handling in human atrial cardiomyocytes and tissues, and their regulation by key upstream signalling pathways [i.e. protein kinase A (PKA), and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII)] involved in AF-pathogenesis. Populations of atrial cardiomyocyte models were constructed to determine the influence of subcellular ionic processes, signalling components, and regulatory networks on atrial arrhythmogenesis. Our results reveal a novel synergistic crosstalk between PKA and CaMKII that promotes atrial cardiomyocyte electrical instability and arrhythmogenic triggered activity. Simulations of heterogeneous tissue demonstrate that this cellular triggered activity is further amplified by CaMKII- and PKA-dependent alterations of tissue properties, further exacerbating atrial arrhythmogenesis. CONCLUSIONS Our analysis reveals potential mechanisms by which the stress-associated adaptive changes turn into maladaptive pro-arrhythmic triggers at the cellular and tissue levels and identifies potential anti-AF targets. Collectively, our integrative approach is powerful and instrumental to assemble and reconcile existing knowledge into a systems network for identifying novel anti-AF targets and innovative approaches moving beyond the traditional ion channel-based strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibo Ni
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis,
451 Health Sciences Drive, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Stefano Morotti
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis,
451 Health Sciences Drive, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Xianwei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis,
451 Health Sciences Drive, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Institute of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University
Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and
Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of
Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eleonora Grandi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis,
451 Health Sciences Drive, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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13
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Giommi A, Gurgel ARB, Smith GL, Workman AJ. Does the small conductance Ca 2+-activated K + current I SK flow under physiological conditions in rabbit and human atrial isolated cardiomyocytes? J Mol Cell Cardiol 2023; 183:70-80. [PMID: 37704101 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2023.09.002] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ current (ISK) is a potential therapeutic target for treating atrial fibrillation. AIM To clarify, in rabbit and human atrial cardiomyocytes, the intracellular [Ca2+]-sensitivity of ISK, and its contribution to action potential (AP) repolarisation, under physiological conditions. METHODS Whole-cell-patch clamp, fluorescence microscopy: to record ion currents, APs and [Ca2+]i; 35-37°C. RESULTS In rabbit atrial myocytes, 0.5 mM Ba2+ (positive control) significantly decreased whole-cell current, from -12.8 to -4.9 pA/pF (P < 0.05, n = 17 cells, 8 rabbits). By contrast, the ISK blocker apamin (100 nM) had no effect on whole-cell current, at any set [Ca2+]i (∼100-450 nM). The ISK blocker ICAGEN (1 μM: ≥2 x IC50) also had no effect on current over this [Ca2+]i range. In human atrial myocytes, neither 1 μM ICAGEN (at [Ca2+]i ∼ 100-450 nM), nor 100 nM apamin ([Ca2+]i ∼ 250 nM) affected whole-cell current (5-10 cells, 3-5 patients/group). APs were significantly prolonged (at APD30 and APD70) by 2 mM 4-aminopyridine (positive control) in rabbit atrial myocytes, but 1 μM ICAGEN had no effect on APDs, versus either pre-ICAGEN or time-matched controls. High concentration (10 μM) ICAGEN (potentially ISK-non-selective) moderately increased APD70 and APD90, by 5 and 26 ms, respectively. In human atrial myocytes, 1 μM ICAGEN had no effect on APD30-90, whether stimulated at 1, 2 or 3 Hz (6-9 cells, 2-4 patients/rate). CONCLUSION ISK does not flow in human or rabbit atrial cardiomyocytes with [Ca2+]i set within the global average diastolic-systolic range, nor during APs stimulated at physiological or supra-physiological (≤3 Hz) rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Giommi
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Aline R B Gurgel
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Godfrey L Smith
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Antony J Workman
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
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14
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Herrera NT, Zhang X, Ni H, Maleckar MM, Heijman J, Dobrev D, Grandi E, Morotti S. Dual effects of the small-conductance Ca 2+-activated K + current on human atrial electrophysiology and Ca 2+-driven arrhythmogenesis: an in silico study. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2023; 325:H896-H908. [PMID: 37624096 PMCID: PMC10659325 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00362.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
By sensing changes in intracellular Ca2+, small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (SK) channels dynamically regulate the dynamics of the cardiac action potential (AP) on a beat-to-beat basis. Given their predominance in atria versus ventricles, SK channels are considered a promising atrial-selective pharmacological target against atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common cardiac arrhythmia. However, the precise contribution of SK current (ISK) to atrial arrhythmogenesis is poorly understood, and may potentially involve different mechanisms that depend on species, heart rates, and degree of AF-induced atrial remodeling. Both reduced and enhanced ISK have been linked to AF. Similarly, both SK channel up- and downregulation have been reported in chronic AF (cAF) versus normal sinus rhythm (nSR) patient samples. Here, we use our multiscale modeling framework to obtain mechanistic insights into the contribution of ISK in human atrial cardiomyocyte electrophysiology. We simulate several protocols to quantify how ISK modulation affects the regulation of AP duration (APD), Ca2+ transient, refractoriness, and occurrence of alternans and delayed afterdepolarizations (DADs). Our simulations show that ISK activation shortens the APD and atrial effective refractory period, limits Ca2+ cycling, and slightly increases the propensity for alternans in both nSR and cAF conditions. We also show that increasing ISK counteracts DAD development by enhancing the repolarization force that opposes the Ca2+-dependent depolarization. Taken together, our results suggest that increasing ISK in human atrial cardiomyocytes could promote reentry while protecting against triggered activity. Depending on the leading arrhythmogenic mechanism, ISK inhibition may thus be a beneficial or detrimental anti-AF strategy.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Using our established framework for human atrial myocyte simulations, we investigated the role of the small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ current (ISK) in the regulation of cell function and the development of Ca2+-driven arrhythmias. We found that ISK inhibition, a promising atrial-selective pharmacological strategy against atrial fibrillation, counteracts the reentry-promoting abbreviation of atrial refractoriness, but renders human atrial myocytes more vulnerable to delayed afterdepolarizations, thus potentially increasing the propensity for ectopic (triggered) activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel T Herrera
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - Xianwei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - Haibo Ni
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - Mary M Maleckar
- Department of Computational Physiology, Simula Research Laboratory, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jordi Heijman
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Faculty of Medicine, West German Heart and Vascular Center, Institute of Pharmacology, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Eleonora Grandi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States
| | - Stefano Morotti
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States
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15
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Saljic A, Heijman J, Dobrev D. Recent Advances in Antiarrhythmic Drug Therapy. Drugs 2023; 83:1147-1160. [PMID: 37540446 PMCID: PMC10462572 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01923-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias remain a common cause of death and disability. Antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) and antiarrhythmic agents remain a cornerstone of current cardiac arrhythmia management, despite moderate efficacy and the potential for significant adverse proarrhythmic effects. Due to conceptual, regulatory and financial considerations, the number of novel antiarrhythmic targets and agents in the development pipeline has decreased substantially during the last few decades. However, several promising candidates remain and there are exciting developments in repurposing and reformulating already existing drugs for indications related to cardiac arrhythmias. This review discusses the key conceptual considerations for the development of new antiarrhythmic agents, summarizes new compounds and formulations currently in clinical development for rhythm control of atrial fibrillation, and highlights the potential for drug repurposing. Finally, future directions in AAD development are discussed. Together with an ever-increasing understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac arrhythmias, these components support a cautiously optimistic outlook towards improved pharmacological treatment opportunities for patients suffering from cardiac arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnela Saljic
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jordi Heijman
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Montréal Heart Institute and University de Montréal, Medicine and Research Center, Montréal, Canada.
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA.
- , Hufelandstrasse 55, 45122, Essen, Germany.
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16
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Burashnikov A, Antzelevitch C. Mild elevation of extracellular potassium greatly potentiates the effect of sodium channel block to cardiovert atrial fibrillation: The Lankenau approach. Heart Rhythm 2023; 20:1257-1264. [PMID: 37169158 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardioversion of atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common clinical necessity, and there is a need for more effective and safe options for acute cardioversion of AF. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that the efficacy and time course of AF cardioversion by sodium channel current (INa) block can be improved by mild elevation of extracellular potassium ([K+]0). METHODS Using a canine acetylcholine (ACh)-mediated AF model (isolated coronary-perfused right atrial preparations with a rim of right ventricle), we evaluated the ability of flecainide to suppress AF in the presence of [K+]0 ranging from 3 to 8 mM. RESULTS At [K+]0 of 4 mM (baseline), persistent AF (>1 hour) was induced in 5 of 5 atria in the presence of 0.5 μM ACh. Flecainide alone (1.5 μM) cardioverted 3 of 6 atria at 4 mM [K+]0, 1 of 6 atria at 3 mM [K+]0, 5 of 5 atria at 5 mM and 6 mM [K+]0, and 4 of 4 atria at 8 mM [K+]0. In the absence of flecainide, an increase in [K+]0 from 4 mM to 5, 6, and 8 mM terminated AF in 0 of 5, 2 of 6, and 4 of 4 atria, respectively. The time to conversion was also abbreviated by elevation of [K+]0. After AF termination with flecainide plus elevated [K+]0, AF was either not inducible or brief (<100 seconds). Combined flecainide and elevated [K+]0 (6 mM) caused an atrial preferential depression of excitability. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that a combination of INa block accompanied by mild elevation of serum potassium may be a novel approach to more effectively, rapidly, and safely cardiovert AF and prevent its recurrence in the short term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Burashnikov
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania; Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
| | - Charles Antzelevitch
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania; Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Lankenau Heart Institute, Main Line Health System, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania
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17
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Narasimhan B, Gandhi K, Moras E, Wu L, Da Wariboko A, Aronow W. Experimental drugs for supraventricular tachycardia: an analysis of early phase clinical trials. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2023; 32:825-838. [PMID: 37728554 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2023.2259309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Supraventricular tachycardias (SVT) are a diverse group of commonly encountered arrhythmias arising at or above the atrioventricular (AV) node. Conventional anti-arrhythmic medications are restricted by extensive side-effect profiles and limited efficacy. Catheter ablation has emerged as a first-line therapy for many arrhythmias but is not a suitable option for all patients. This has prompted the exploration of novel pharmacological approaches targeting specific molecular mechanisms of SVT. AREAS COVERED This review article aims to summarize recent advancements in pharmacological therapeutics for SVT and their clinical implications. The understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying these arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation, has opened up new possibilities for targeted interventions. Beyond the manipulation of ion channels and membrane potentials, pharmacotherapy now focuses on upstream targets such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and structural remodeling. This review strives to provide a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in pharmacological therapeutics directed at the management of SVT. We begin by providing a brief summary of the mechanisms and management of commonly encountered SVT before delving into individual agents, which in turn are stratified based on their molecular treatment targets. EXPERT OPINION The evolving landscape of pharmacologic therapy offers hope for more personalized and tailored interventions in the management of SVT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharat Narasimhan
- DeBakey Cardiovascular Institute, Houston Methodist, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kruti Gandhi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Errol Moras
- Department of Internal Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lingling Wu
- Department of Medicine, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Akanibo Da Wariboko
- Department of Internal Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wilbert Aronow
- Department of Cardiology, Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY, USA
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18
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Zhang X, Ni H, Morotti S, Smith C, Sato D, Louch W, Edwards A, Grandi E. Mechanisms of spontaneous Ca 2+ release-mediated arrhythmia in a novel 3D human atrial myocyte model: I. Transverse-axial tubule variation. J Physiol 2023; 601:2655-2683. [PMID: 36094888 PMCID: PMC10008525 DOI: 10.1113/jp283363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracellular calcium (Ca2+ ) cycling is tightly regulated in the healthy heart ensuring effective contraction. This is achieved by transverse (t)-tubule membrane invaginations that facilitate close coupling of key Ca2+ -handling proteins such as the L-type Ca2+ channel and Na+ -Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) on the cell surface with ryanodine receptors (RyRs) on the intracellular Ca2+ store. Although less abundant and regular than in the ventricle, t-tubules also exist in atrial myocytes as a network of transverse invaginations with axial extensions known as the transverse-axial tubule system (TATS). In heart failure and atrial fibrillation, there is TATS remodelling that is associated with aberrant Ca2+ -handling and Ca2+ -induced arrhythmic activity; however, the mechanism underlying this is not fully understood. To address this, we developed a novel 3D human atrial myocyte model that couples electrophysiology and Ca2+ -handling with variable TATS organization and density. We extensively parameterized and validated our model against experimental data to build a robust tool examining TATS regulation of subcellular Ca2+ release. We found that varying TATS density and thus the localization of key Ca2+ -handling proteins has profound effects on Ca2+ handling. Following TATS loss, there is reduced NCX that results in increased cleft Ca2+ concentration through decreased Ca2+ extrusion. This elevated Ca2+ increases RyR open probability causing spontaneous Ca2+ releases and the promotion of arrhythmogenic waves (especially in the cell interior) leading to voltage instabilities through delayed afterdepolarizations. In summary, the present study demonstrates a mechanistic link between TATS remodelling and Ca2+ -driven proarrhythmic behaviour that probably reflects the arrhythmogenic state observed in disease. KEY POINTS: Transverse-axial tubule systems (TATS) modulate Ca2+ handling and excitation-contraction coupling in atrial myocytes, with TATS remodelling in heart failure and atrial fibrillation being associated with altered Ca2+ cycling and subsequent arrhythmogenesis. To investigate the poorly understood mechanisms linking TATS variation and spontaneous Ca2+ release, we built, parameterized and validated a 3D human atrial myocyte model coupling electrophysiology and spatially-detailed subcellular Ca2+ handling governed by the TATS. Simulated TATS loss causes diastolic Ca2+ and voltage instabilities through reduced Na+ -Ca2+ exchanger-mediated Ca2+ removal, cleft Ca2+ accumulation and increased ryanodine receptor open probability, resulting in spontaneous Ca2+ release and promotion of arrhythmogenic waves and delayed afterdepolarizations. At fast electrical rates typical of atrial tachycardia/fibrillation, spontaneous Ca2+ releases are larger and more frequent in the cell interior than at the periphery. Our work provides mechanistic insight into how atrial TATS remodelling can lead to Ca2+ -driven instabilities that may ultimately contribute to the arrhythmogenic state in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- X. Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - H. Ni
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - S. Morotti
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - C.E.R. Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - D. Sato
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - W.E. Louch
- Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- K.G. Jebsen Centre for Cardiac Research, University of Oslo, Oslo Norway
| | - A.G. Edwards
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
- Simula Research Laboratory, Lysaker, Norway
| | - E. Grandi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
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Liu T, Li T, Xu D, Wang Y, Zhou Y, Wan J, Huang CLH, Tan X. Small-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels in the heart: expression, regulation and pathological implications. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2023; 378:20220171. [PMID: 37122223 PMCID: PMC10150224 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Ca2+-activated K+ channels are critical to cellular Ca2+ homeostasis and excitability; they couple intracellular Ca2+ and membrane voltage change. Of these, the small, 4-14 pS, conductance SK channels include three, KCNN1-3 encoded, SK1/KCa2.1, SK2/KCa2.2 and SK3/KCa2.3, channel subtypes with characteristic, EC50 ∼ 10 nM, 40 pM, 1 nM, apamin sensitivities. All SK channels, particularly SK2 channels, are expressed in atrial, ventricular and conducting system cardiomyocytes. Pharmacological and genetic modification results have suggested that SK channel block or knockout prolonged action potential durations (APDs) and effective refractory periods (ERPs) particularly in atrial, but also in ventricular, and sinoatrial, atrioventricular node and Purkinje myocytes, correspondingly affect arrhythmic tendency. Additionally, mitochondrial SK channels may decrease mitochondrial Ca2+ overload and reactive oxygen species generation. SK channels show low voltage but marked Ca2+ dependences (EC50 ∼ 300-500 nM) reflecting their α-subunit calmodulin (CaM) binding domains, through which they may be activated by voltage-gated or ryanodine-receptor Ca2+ channel activity. SK function also depends upon complex trafficking and expression processes and associations with other ion channels or subunits from different SK subtypes. Atrial and ventricular clinical arrhythmogenesis may follow both increased or decreased SK expression through decreased or increased APD correspondingly accelerating and stabilizing re-entrant rotors or increasing incidences of triggered activity. This article is part of the theme issue 'The heartbeat: its molecular basis and physiological mechanisms'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Liu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Li
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, People's Republic of China
- Department of Cardiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Dandi Xu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yafei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Juyi Wan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Christopher L.-H. Huang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, People's Republic of China
- Physiological Laboratory and Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Xiaoqiu Tan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, People's Republic of China
- Department of Cardiology, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, People's Republic of China
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, People's Republic of China
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20
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Kingma J, Simard C, Drolet B. Overview of Cardiac Arrhythmias and Treatment Strategies. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:844. [PMID: 37375791 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of normal cardiac rhythm requires coordinated activity of ion channels and transporters that allow well-ordered propagation of electrical impulses across the myocardium. Disruptions in this orderly process provoke cardiac arrhythmias that may be lethal in some patients. Risk of common acquired arrhythmias is increased markedly when structural heart disease caused by myocardial infarction (due to fibrotic scar formation) or left ventricular dysfunction is present. Genetic polymorphisms influence structure or excitability of the myocardial substrate, which increases vulnerability or risk of arrhythmias in patients. Similarly, genetic polymorphisms of drug-metabolizing enzymes give rise to distinct subgroups within the population that affect specific drug biotransformation reactions. Nonetheless, identification of triggers involved in initiation or maintenance of cardiac arrhythmias remains a major challenge. Herein, we provide an overview of knowledge regarding physiopathology of inherited and acquired cardiac arrhythmias along with a summary of treatments (pharmacologic or non-pharmacologic) used to limit their effect on morbidity and potential mortality. Improved understanding of molecular and cellular aspects of arrhythmogenesis and more epidemiologic studies (for a more accurate portrait of incidence and prevalence) are crucial for development of novel treatments and for management of cardiac arrhythmias and their consequences in patients, as their incidence is increasing worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Kingma
- Department of Medicine, Ferdinand Vandry Pavillon, 1050 Av. de la Médecine, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Chantale Simard
- Faculty of Pharmacy Ferdinand Vandry Pavillon, 1050 Av. de la Médecine, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec-Université Laval 2725 Chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
| | - Benoît Drolet
- Faculty of Pharmacy Ferdinand Vandry Pavillon, 1050 Av. de la Médecine, Québec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec-Université Laval 2725 Chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec City, QC G1V 4G5, Canada
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21
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Heijman J, Zhou X, Morotti S, Molina CE, Abu-Taha IH, Tekook M, Jespersen T, Zhang Y, Dobrev S, Milting H, Gummert J, Karck M, Kamler M, El-Armouche A, Saljic A, Grandi E, Nattel S, Dobrev D. Enhanced Ca 2+-Dependent SK-Channel Gating and Membrane Trafficking in Human Atrial Fibrillation. Circ Res 2023; 132:e116-e133. [PMID: 36927079 PMCID: PMC10147588 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.122.321858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (SK)-channel inhibitors have antiarrhythmic effects in animal models of atrial fibrillation (AF), presenting a potential novel antiarrhythmic option. However, the regulation of SK-channels in human atrial cardiomyocytes and its modification in patients with AF are poorly understood and were the object of this study. METHODS Apamin-sensitive SK-channel current (ISK) and action potentials were recorded in human right-atrial cardiomyocytes from sinus rhythm control (Ctl) patients or patients with (long-standing persistent) chronic AF (cAF). RESULTS ISK was significantly higher, and apamin caused larger action potential prolongation in cAF- versus Ctl-cardiomyocytes. Sensitivity analyses in an in silico human atrial cardiomyocyte model identified IK1 and ISK as major regulators of repolarization. Increased ISK in cAF was not associated with increases in mRNA/protein levels of SK-channel subunits in either right- or left-atrial tissue homogenates or right-atrial cardiomyocytes, but the abundance of SK2 at the sarcolemma was larger in cAF versus Ctl in both tissue-slices and cardiomyocytes. Latrunculin-A and primaquine (anterograde and retrograde protein-trafficking inhibitors) eliminated the differences in SK2 membrane levels and ISK between Ctl- and cAF-cardiomyocytes. In addition, the phosphatase-inhibitor okadaic acid reduced ISK amplitude and abolished the difference between Ctl- and cAF-cardiomyocytes, indicating that reduced calmodulin-Thr80 phosphorylation due to increased protein phosphatase-2A levels in the SK-channel complex likely contribute to the greater ISK in cAF-cardiomyocytes. Finally, rapid electrical activation (5 Hz, 10 minutes) of Ctl-cardiomyocytes promoted SK2 membrane-localization, increased ISK and reduced action potential duration, effects greatly attenuated by apamin. Latrunculin-A or primaquine prevented the 5-Hz-induced ISK-upregulation. CONCLUSIONS ISK is upregulated in patients with cAF due to enhanced channel function, mediated by phosphatase-2A-dependent calmodulin-Thr80 dephosphorylation and tachycardia-dependent enhanced trafficking and targeting of SK-channel subunits to the sarcolemma. The observed AF-associated increases in ISK, which promote reentry-stabilizing action potential duration shortening, suggest an important role for SK-channels in AF auto-promotion and provide a rationale for pursuing the antiarrhythmic effects of SK-channel inhibition in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Heijman
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, Faculty of Medicine, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Xiaobo Zhou
- First Department of Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany and DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education and Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Stefano Morotti
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Cristina E. Molina
- Institute of Experimental Cardiovascular Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf and DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Issam H. Abu-Taha
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, Faculty of Medicine, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Marcel Tekook
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, Faculty of Medicine, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Thomas Jespersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Yiqiao Zhang
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, Faculty of Medicine, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Shokoufeh Dobrev
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, Faculty of Medicine, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Hendrik Milting
- Erich and Hanna Klessmann Institute, Heart and Diabetes Center NRW, University Hospital of the Ruhr-University Bochum, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Jan Gummert
- Erich and Hanna Klessmann Institute, Heart and Diabetes Center NRW, University Hospital of the Ruhr-University Bochum, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Matthias Karck
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Markus Kamler
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, West German Heart and Vascular Center Essen, University Hospital Essen, Germany
| | - Ali El-Armouche
- Institute of Pharmacology, Dresden University of Technology, Germany
| | - Arnela Saljic
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, Faculty of Medicine, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eleonora Grandi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Stanley Nattel
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, Faculty of Medicine, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University Montreal, Canada
- IHU LIRYC and Fondation Bordeaux Université, Bordeaux, France
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, Faculty of Medicine, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Medicine, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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22
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van Herck IGM, Seutin V, Bentzen BH, Marrion NV, Edwards AG. Gating kinetics and pharmacological properties of small-conductance Ca 2+-activated potassium channels. Biophys J 2023; 122:1143-1157. [PMID: 36760125 PMCID: PMC10111258 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Small-conductance (SK) calcium-activated potassium channels are a promising treatment target in atrial fibrillation. However, the functional properties that differentiate SK inhibitors remain poorly understood. The objective of this study was to determine how two unrelated SK channel inhibitors, apamin and AP14145, impact SK channel function in excised inside-out single-channel recordings. Surprisingly, both apamin and AP14145 exert much of their inhibition by inducing a class of very-long-lived channel closures (apamin: τc,vl = 11.8 ± 7.1 s, and AP14145: τc,vl = 10.3 ± 7.2 s), which were never observed under control conditions. Both inhibitors also induced changes to the three closed and two open durations typical of normal SK channel gating. AP14145 shifted the open duration distribution to favor longer open durations, whereas apamin did not alter open-state kinetics. AP14145 also prolonged the two shortest channel closed durations (AP14145: τc,s = 3.50 ± 0.81 ms, and τc,i = 32.0 ± 6.76 ms versus control: τc,s = 1.59 ± 0.19 ms, and τc,i = 13.5 ± 1.17 ms), thus slowing overall gating kinetics within bursts of channel activity. In contrast, apamin accelerated intraburst gating kinetics by shortening the two shortest closed durations (τc,s = 0.75 ± 0.10 ms and τc,i = 5.08 ± 0.49 ms) and inducing periods of flickery activity. Finally, AP14145 introduced a unique form of inhibition by decreasing unitary current amplitude. SK channels exhibited two clearly distinguishable amplitudes (control: Ahigh = 0.76 ± 0.03 pA, and Alow = 0.54 ± 0.03 pA). AP14145 both reduced the fraction of patches exhibiting the higher amplitude (AP14145: 4/9 patches versus control: 16/16 patches) and reduced the mean low amplitude (0.38 ± 0.03 pA). Here, we have demonstrated that both inhibitors introduce very long channel closures but that each also exhibits unique effects on other components of SK gating kinetics and unitary current. The combination of these effects is likely to be critical for understanding the functional differences of each inhibitor in the context of cyclical Ca2+-dependent channel activation in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilsbeth G M van Herck
- Computational Physiology Department, Simula Research Laboratory, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Informatics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Vincent Seutin
- Neurophysiology Unit, GIGA Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Bo H Bentzen
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark; Biomedical Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Neil V Marrion
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Andrew G Edwards
- Computational Physiology Department, Simula Research Laboratory, Oslo, Norway; Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, California.
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23
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Celotto C, Sánchez C, Mountris KA, Laguna P, Pueyo E. Steady-state and transient effects of SK channel block and adrenergic stimulation to counteract acetylcholine-induced arrhythmogenic effects in the human atria: A computational study. Comput Biol Med 2023; 157:106719. [PMID: 36907032 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.106719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
Hyperactivity of the parasympathetic nervous system has been linked to the development of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). The parasympathetic neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) causes a reduction in action potential (AP) duration (APD) and an increase in resting membrane potential (RMP), both of which contribute to enhance the risk for reentry. Research suggests that small-conductance calcium activated potassium (SK) channels may be an effective target for treating AF. Therapies targeting the autonomic nervous system, either alone or in combination with other drugs, have been explored and have been shown to decrease the incidence of atrial arrhythmias. This study uses computational modeling and simulation to examine the impact of SK channel block (SKb) and β-adrenergic stimulation through Isoproterenol (Iso) on countering the negative effects of cholinergic activity in human atrial cell and 2D tissue models. The steady-state effects of Iso and/or SKb on AP shape, APD at 90% repolarization (APD90) and RMP were evaluated. The ability to terminate stable rotational activity in cholinergically-stimulated 2D tissue models of AF was also investigated. A range of SKb and Iso application kinetics, which reflect varying drug binding rates, were taken into consideration. The results showed that SKb alone prolonged APD90 and was able to stop sustained rotors in the presence of ACh concentrations up to 0.01 μM. Iso terminated rotors under all tested ACh concentrations, but resulted in highly-variable steady-state outcomes depending on baseline AP morphology. Importantly, the combination of SKb and Iso resulted in greater APD90 prolongation and showed promising anti-arrhythmic potential by stopping stable rotors and preventing re-inducibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Celotto
- BSICoS Group, I3A and IIS-Aragón, University of Zaragoza, Spain; CIBER - Bioingeniería, Biomateriales, y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Carlos Sánchez
- BSICoS Group, I3A and IIS-Aragón, University of Zaragoza, Spain; CIBER - Bioingeniería, Biomateriales, y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Pablo Laguna
- BSICoS Group, I3A and IIS-Aragón, University of Zaragoza, Spain; CIBER - Bioingeniería, Biomateriales, y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Esther Pueyo
- BSICoS Group, I3A and IIS-Aragón, University of Zaragoza, Spain; CIBER - Bioingeniería, Biomateriales, y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Zaragoza, Spain
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24
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Ismaili D, Schulz C, Horváth A, Koivumäki JT, Mika D, Hansen A, Eschenhagen T, Christ T. Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes as an electrophysiological model: Opportunities and challenges-The Hamburg perspective. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1132165. [PMID: 36875015 PMCID: PMC9978010 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1132165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Models based on human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CM) are proposed in almost any field of physiology and pharmacology. The development of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes is expected to become a step forward to increase the translational power of cardiovascular research. Importantly they should allow to study genetic effects on an electrophysiological background close to the human situation. However, biological and methodological issues revealed when human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes were used in experimental electrophysiology. We will discuss some of the challenges that should be considered when human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes will be used as a physiological model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Djemail Ismaili
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carl Schulz
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
| | - András Horváth
- Translational Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jussi T. Koivumäki
- BioMediTech, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Delphine Mika
- Inserm, UMR-S 1180, Université Paris-Saclay, Orsay, France
| | - Arne Hansen
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Eschenhagen
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Torsten Christ
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Hamburg, Germany
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25
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Kanaporis G, Blatter LA. Activation of small conductance Ca 2+ -activated K + channels suppresses Ca 2+ transient and action potential alternans in ventricular myocytes. J Physiol 2023; 601:51-67. [PMID: 36426548 PMCID: PMC9878619 DOI: 10.1113/jp283870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
At the cellular level, cardiac alternans is observed as beat-to-beat alternations in contraction strength, action potential (AP) morphology and Ca2+ transient (CaT) amplitude, and is a risk factor for cardiac arrhythmia. The (patho)physiological roles of small conductance Ca2+ -activated K+ (SK) channels in ventricles are poorly understood. We tested the hypothesis that in single rabbit ventricular myocytes pharmacological modulation of SK channels plays a causative role for the development of pacing-induced CaT and AP duration (APD) alternans. SK channel blockers (apamin, UCL1684) had only a minor effect on AP repolarization. However, SK channel activation by NS309 resulted in significant APD shortening, demonstrating that functional SK channels are well expressed in ventricular myocytes. The effects of NS309 were prevented or reversed by apamin and UCL1684, indicating that NS309 acted on SK channels. SK channel activation abolished or reduced the degree of pacing-induced CaT and APD alternans. Inhibition of KV 7.1 (with HMR1556) and KV 11.1 (with E4031) channels was used to mimic conditions of long QT syndromes type-1 and type-2, respectively. Both HMR1556 and E4031 enhanced CaT alternans that was prevented by SK channel activation. In AP voltage-clamped cells the SK channel activator had no effect on CaT alternans, confirming that suppression of CaT alternans was caused by APD shortening. APD shortening contributed to protection from alternans by lowering sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ content and curtailing Ca2+ release. The data suggest that SK activation could be a potential intervention to avert development of alternans with important ramifications for arrhythmia prevention and therapy for patients with long QT syndrome. KEY POINTS: At the cellular level, cardiac alternans is observed as beat-to-beat alternations in contraction strength, action potential (AP) morphology and intracellular Ca2+ release amplitude, and is a risk factor for cardiac arrhythmia. The (patho)physiological roles of small conductance Ca2+ -activated K+ (SK) channels in ventricles are poorly understood. We investigated whether pharmacological modulation of SK channels affects the development of cardiac alternans in normal ventricular cells and in cells with drug-induced long QT syndrome (LQTS). While SK channel blockers have only a minor effect on AP morphology, their activation leads to AP shortening and abolishes or reduces the degree of pacing-induced Ca2+ and AP alternans. AP shortening contributed to protection against alternans by lowering sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ content and curtailing Ca2+ release. The data suggest SK activation as a potential intervention to avert the development of alternans with important ramifications for arrhythmia prevention for patients with LQTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giedrius Kanaporis
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lothar A Blatter
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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26
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Linz B, Hesselkilde EM, Skarsfeldt MA, Hertel JN, Sattler SM, Yan Y, Tfelt-Hansen J, Diness JG, Bentzen BH, Linz D, Jespersen T. Pharmacological inhibition of SK-channels with AP14145 prevents atrial arrhythmogenic changes in a porcine model for obstructive respiratory events. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2023; 34:126-134. [PMID: 36482155 PMCID: PMC10107889 DOI: 10.1111/jce.15769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) creates a complex substrate for atrial fibrillation (AF), which is refractory to many clinically available pharmacological interventions. We investigated atrial antiarrhythmogenic properties and ventricular electrophysiological safety of small-conductance Ca2+ -activated K+ (SK)-channel inhibition in a porcine model for obstructive respiratory events. METHODS In spontaneously breathing pigs, obstructive respiratory events were simulated by intermittent negative upper airway pressure (INAP) applied via a pressure device connected to the intubation tube. INAP was applied for 75 s, every 10 min, three times before and three times during infusion of the SK-channel inhibitor AP14145. Atrial effective refractory periods (AERP) were acquired before (pre-INAP), during (INAP) and after (post-) INAP. AF-inducibility was determined by a S1S2 atrial pacing protocol. Ventricular arrhythmicity was evaluated by heart rate adjusted QT-interval duration (QT-paced) and electromechanical window (EMW) shortening. RESULTS During vehicle infusion, INAP transiently shortened AERP (pre-INAP: 135 ± 10 ms vs. post-INAP 101 ± 11 ms; p = .008) and increased AF-inducibility. QT-paced prolonged during INAP (pre-INAP 270 ± 7 ms vs. INAP 275 ± 7 ms; p = .04) and EMW shortened progressively throughout INAP and post-INAP (pre-INAP 80 ± 4 ms; INAP 59 ± 6 ms, post-INAP 46 ± 10 ms). AP14145 prolonged baseline AERP, partially prevented INAP-induced AERP-shortening and reduced AF-susceptibility. AP14145 did not alter QT-paced at baseline (pre-AP14145 270 ± 7 ms vs. AP14145 268 ± 6 ms, p = .83) or QT-paced and EMW-shortening during INAP. CONCLUSION In a pig model for obstructive respiratory events, the SK-channel-inhibitor AP14145 prevented INAP-associated AERP-shortening and AF-susceptibility without impairing ventricular electrophysiology. Whether SK-channels represent a target for OSA-related AF in humans warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Linz
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, Panum Institutet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva M Hesselkilde
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, Panum Institutet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mark A Skarsfeldt
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, Panum Institutet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Julie N Hertel
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, Panum Institutet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stefan M Sattler
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, Panum Institutet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Yannan Yan
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, Panum Institutet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jacob Tfelt-Hansen
- The Department of Cardiology, The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Bo H Bentzen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, Panum Institutet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dominik Linz
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, Panum Institutet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Royal Adelaide Hospital, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Jespersen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cardiac Physiology Laboratory, Panum Institutet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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27
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Butler AS, Hancox JC, Marrion NV. Preferential formation of human heteromeric SK2:SK3 channels limits homomeric SK channel assembly and function. J Biol Chem 2022; 299:102783. [PMID: 36502918 PMCID: PMC9841042 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Three isoforms of small conductance, calcium-activated potassium (SK) channel subunits have been identified (SK1-3) that exhibit a broad and overlapping tissue distribution. SK channels have been implicated in several disease states including hypertension and atrial fibrillation, but therapeutic targeting of SK channels is hampered by a lack of subtype-selective inhibitors. This is further complicated by studies showing that SK1 and SK2 preferentially form heteromeric channels during co-expression, likely limiting the function of homomeric channels in vivo. Here, we utilized a simplified expression system to investigate functional current produced when human (h) SK2 and hSK3 subunits are co-expressed. When expressed alone, hSK3 subunits were more clearly expressed on the cell surface than hSK2 subunits. hSK3 surface expression was reduced by co-transfection with hSK2. Whole-cell recording showed homomeric hSK3 currents were larger than homomeric hSK2 currents or heteromeric hSK2:hSK3 currents. The smaller amplitude of hSK2:hSK3-mediated current when compared with homomeric hSK3-mediated current suggests hSK2 subunits regulate surface expression of heteromers. Co-expression of hSK2 and hSK3 subunits produced a current that arose from a single population of heteromeric channels as exhibited by an intermediate sensitivity to the inhibitors apamin and UCL1684. Co-expression of the apamin-sensitive hSK2 subunit and a mutant, apamin-insensitive hSK3 subunit [hSK3(H485N)], produced an apamin-sensitive current. Concentration-inhibition relationships were best fit by a monophasic Hill equation, confirming preferential formation of heteromers. These data show that co-expressed hSK2 and hSK3 preferentially form heteromeric channels and suggest that the hSK2 subunit acts as a chaperone, limiting membrane expression of hSK2:hSK3 heteromeric channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Butler
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Medical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Jules C Hancox
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Medical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, United Kingdom.
| | - Neil V Marrion
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Medical Sciences Building, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, United Kingdom.
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Kuzmenkov AI, Peigneur S, Nasburg JA, Mineev KS, Nikolaev MV, Pinheiro-Junior EL, Arseniev AS, Wulff H, Tytgat J, Vassilevski AA. Apamin structure and pharmacology revisited. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:977440. [PMID: 36188602 PMCID: PMC9523135 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.977440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Apamin is often cited as one of the few substances selectively acting on small-conductance Ca2+-activated potassium channels (KCa2). However, published pharmacological and structural data remain controversial. Here, we investigated the molecular pharmacology of apamin by two-electrode voltage-clamp in Xenopus laevis oocytes and patch-clamp in HEK293, COS7, and CHO cells expressing the studied ion channels, as well as in isolated rat brain neurons. The microtitre broth dilution method was used for antimicrobial activity screening. The spatial structure of apamin in aqueous solution was determined by NMR spectroscopy. We tested apamin against 42 ion channels (KCa, KV, NaV, nAChR, ASIC, and others) and confirmed its unique selectivity to KCa2 channels. No antimicrobial activity was detected for apamin against Gram-positive or Gram-negative bacteria. The NMR solution structure of apamin was deposited in the Protein Data Bank. The results presented here demonstrate that apamin is a selective nanomolar or even subnanomolar-affinity KCa2 inhibitor with no significant effects on other molecular targets. The spatial structure as well as ample functional data provided here support the use of apamin as a KCa2-selective pharmacological tool and as a template for drug design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey I. Kuzmenkov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Joshua A. Nasburg
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Konstantin S. Mineev
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Moscow Region, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Maxim V. Nikolaev
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | | | - Alexander S. Arseniev
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Moscow Region, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Heike Wulff
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alexander A. Vassilevski
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Moscow Region, Dolgoprudny, Russia
- *Correspondence: Alexander A. Vassilevski,
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Allosteric inhibitors targeting the calmodulin-PIP2 interface of SK4 K + channels for atrial fibrillation treatment. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2202926119. [PMID: 35969786 PMCID: PMC9407317 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2202926119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ca2+-activated SK4 K+ channel is gated by Ca2+-calmodulin (CaM) and is expressed in immune cells, brain, and heart. A cryoelectron microscopy (cryo-EM) structure of the human SK4 K+ channel recently revealed four CaM molecules per channel tetramer, where the apo CaM C-lobe and the holo CaM N-lobe interact with the proximal carboxyl terminus and the linker S4-S5, respectively, to gate the channel. Here, we show that phosphatidylinositol 4-5 bisphosphate (PIP2) potently activates SK4 channels by docking to the boundary of the CaM-binding domain. An allosteric blocker, BA6b9, was designed to act to the CaM-PIP2-binding domain, a previously untargeted region of SK4 channels, at the interface of the proximal carboxyl terminus and the linker S4-S5. Site-directed mutagenesis, molecular docking, and patch-clamp electrophysiology indicate that BA6b9 inhibits SK4 channels by interacting with two specific residues, Arg191 and His192 in the linker S4-S5, not conserved in SK1-SK3 subunits, thereby conferring selectivity and preventing the Ca2+-CaM N-lobe from properly interacting with the channel linker region. Immunohistochemistry of the SK4 channel protein in rat hearts showed a widespread expression in the sarcolemma of atrial myocytes, with a sarcomeric striated Z-band pattern, and a weaker occurrence in the ventricle but a marked incidence at the intercalated discs. BA6b9 significantly prolonged atrial and atrioventricular effective refractory periods in rat isolated hearts and reduced atrial fibrillation induction ex vivo. Our work suggests that inhibition of SK4 K+ channels by targeting drugs to the CaM-PIP2-binding domain provides a promising anti-arrhythmic therapy.
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A Detailed Study to Discover the Trade between Left Atrial Blood Flow, Expression of Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels and Valvular Atrial Fibrillation. Cells 2022; 11:cells11091383. [PMID: 35563689 PMCID: PMC9103658 DOI: 10.3390/cells11091383] [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: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The present study aimed to explore the correlation between calcium-activated potassium channels, left atrial flow field mechanics, valvular atrial fibrillation (VAF), and thrombosis. The process of transforming mechanical signals into biological signals has been revealed, which offers new insights into the study of VAF. Methods: Computational fluid dynamics simulations use numeric analysis and algorithms to compute flow parameters, including turbulent shear stress (TSS) and wall pressure in the left atrium (LA). Real-time PCR and western blotting were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression of IKCa2.3/3.1, ATK1, and P300 in the left atrial tissue of 90 patients. Results: In the valvular disease group, the TSS and wall ressure in the LA increased, the wall pressure increased in turn in all disease groups, mainly near the mitral valve and the posterior portion of the LA, the increase in TSS was the most significant in each group near the mitral valve, and the middle and lower part of the back of the LA and the mRNA expression and protein expression levels of IKCa2.3/3.1, AKT1, and P300 increased (p < 0.05) (n = 15). The present study was preliminarily conducted to elucidate whether there might be a certain correlation between IKCa2.3 and LA hemodynamic changes. Conclusions: The TSS and wall pressure changes in the LA are correlated with the upregulation of mRNA and protein expression of IKCa2.3/3.1, AKT1, and P300.
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Xu Q, Huang X, Meng Z, Li Y, Zhong R, Li X, Cyganek L, El-Battrawy I, Akin I, Zhou X, Lan H. Antiarrhythmic Effects of Vernakalant in Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes from a Patient with Short QT Syndrome Type 1. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2022; 9:jcdd9040112. [PMID: 35448088 PMCID: PMC9032933 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd9040112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Short QT syndrome (SQTS) may result in sudden cardiac death. So far, no drugs, except quinidine, have been demonstrated to be effective in some patients with SQTS type 1 (SQTS1). This study was designed to examine the potential effectiveness of vernakalant for treating SQTS1 patients, using human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) from a patient with SQTS1. (2) Methods: Patch clamp and calcium imaging techniques were used to examine the drug effects. (3) Results: Vernakalant prolonged the action potential duration (APD) in hiPSC-CMs from a SQTS1-patient (SQTS1-hiPSC-CMs). In spontaneously beating SQTS1-hiPSC-CMs, vernakalant reduced the arrhythmia-like events induced by carbachol plus epinephrine. Vernakalant failed to suppress the hERG channel currents but reduced the outward small-conductance calcium-activated potassium channel current. In addition, it enhanced Na/Ca exchanger currents and late sodium currents, in agreement with its APD-prolonging effect. (4) Conclusions: The results demonstrated that vernakalant can prolong APD and reduce arrhythmia-like events in SQTS1-hiPSC-CMs and may be a candidate drug for treating arrhythmias in SQTS1-patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Xu
- School of Basic Medical Science, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China;
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (Z.M.); (Y.L.); (R.Z.); (X.L.); (I.E.-B.); (I.A.)
| | - Xuemei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education & Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China;
| | - Zenghui Meng
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (Z.M.); (Y.L.); (R.Z.); (X.L.); (I.E.-B.); (I.A.)
| | - Yingrui Li
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (Z.M.); (Y.L.); (R.Z.); (X.L.); (I.E.-B.); (I.A.)
| | - Rujia Zhong
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (Z.M.); (Y.L.); (R.Z.); (X.L.); (I.E.-B.); (I.A.)
| | - Xin Li
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (Z.M.); (Y.L.); (R.Z.); (X.L.); (I.E.-B.); (I.A.)
| | - Lukas Cyganek
- Stem Cell Unit, Clinic for Cardiology and Pneumology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany;
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ibrahim El-Battrawy
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (Z.M.); (Y.L.); (R.Z.); (X.L.); (I.E.-B.); (I.A.)
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site, 68229 Heidelberg-Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ibrahim Akin
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (Z.M.); (Y.L.); (R.Z.); (X.L.); (I.E.-B.); (I.A.)
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site, 68229 Heidelberg-Mannheim, Germany
| | - Xiaobo Zhou
- First Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim (UMM), University of Heidelberg, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (Z.M.); (Y.L.); (R.Z.); (X.L.); (I.E.-B.); (I.A.)
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education & Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China;
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site, 68229 Heidelberg-Mannheim, Germany
- Correspondence: (X.Z.); (H.L.)
| | - Huan Lan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Ministry of Education & Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China;
- Correspondence: (X.Z.); (H.L.)
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Emerging Antiarrhythmic Drugs for Atrial Fibrillation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084096. [PMID: 35456912 PMCID: PMC9029767 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common cardiac arrhythmia worldwide, is driven by complex mechanisms that differ between subgroups of patients. This complexity is apparent from the different forms in which AF presents itself (post-operative, paroxysmal and persistent), each with heterogeneous patterns and variable progression. Our current understanding of the mechanisms responsible for initiation, maintenance and progression of the different forms of AF has increased significantly in recent years. Nevertheless, antiarrhythmic drugs for the management of AF have not been developed based on the underlying arrhythmia mechanisms and none of the currently used drugs were specifically developed to target AF. With the increased knowledge on the mechanisms underlying different forms of AF, new opportunities for developing more effective and safer AF therapies are emerging. In this review, we provide an overview of potential novel antiarrhythmic approaches based on the underlying mechanisms of AF, focusing both on the development of novel antiarrhythmic agents and on the possibility of repurposing already marketed drugs. In addition, we discuss the opportunity of targeting some of the key players involved in the underlying AF mechanisms, such as ryanodine receptor type-2 (RyR2) channels and atrial-selective K+-currents (IK2P and ISK) for antiarrhythmic therapy. In addition, we highlight the opportunities for targeting components of inflammatory signaling (e.g., the NLRP3-inflammasome) and upstream mechanisms targeting fibroblast function to prevent structural remodeling and progression of AF. Finally, we critically appraise emerging antiarrhythmic drug principles and future directions for antiarrhythmic drug development, as well as their potential for improving AF management.
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The Inhibition of the Small-Conductance Ca2+-Activated Potassium Channels Decreases the Sinus Node Pacemaking during Beta-Adrenergic Activation. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15030313. [PMID: 35337111 PMCID: PMC8948633 DOI: 10.3390/ph15030313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sinus pacemaking is based on tight cooperation of intracellular Ca2+ handling and surface membrane ion channels. An important player of this synergistic crosstalk could be the small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+-channel (ISK) that could contribute to the sinoatrial node (SAN) pacemaking driven by the intracellular Ca2+ changes under normal conditions and beta-adrenergic activation, however, the exact role is not fully clarified. SK2 channel expression was verified by immunoblot technique in rabbit SAN cells. Ionic currents and action potentials were measured by patch-clamp technique. The ECG R-R intervals were obtained by Langendorff-perfusion method on a rabbit heart. Apamin, a selective inhibitor of SK channels, was used during the experiments. Patch-clamp experiments revealed an apamin-sensitive current. When 100 nM apamin was applied, we found no change in the action potential nor in the ECG R-R interval. In experiments where isoproterenol was employed, apamin increased the cycle length of the SAN action potentials and enhanced the ECG R-R interval. Apamin did not amplify the cycle length variability or ECG R-R interval variability. Our data indicate that ISK has no role under normal condition, however, it moderately contributes to the SAN automaticity under beta-adrenergic activation.
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Yang B, Jiang Q, He S, Li T, Ou X, Chen T, Fan X, Jiang F, Zeng X, Huang CLH, Lei M, Tan X. Ventricular SK2 upregulation following angiotensin II challenge: Modulation by p21-activated kinase-1. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2022; 164:110-125. [PMID: 34774547 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2021.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Effects of hypertrophic challenge on small-conductance, Ca2+-activated K+(SK2) channel expression were explored in intact murine hearts, isolated ventricular myocytes and neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs). An established experimental platform applied angiotensin II (Ang II) challenge in the presence and absence of reduced p21-activated kinase (PAK1) (PAK1cko vs. PAK1f/f, or shRNA-PAK1 interference) expression. SK2 current contributions were detected through their sensitivity to apamin block. Ang II treatment increased such SK2 contributions to optically mapped action potential durations (APD80) and their heterogeneity, and to patch-clamp currents. Such changes were accentuated in PAK1cko compared to PAK1f/f, intact hearts and isolated cardiomyocytes. They paralleled increased histological and echocardiographic hypertrophic indices, reduced cardiac contractility, and increased SK2 protein expression, changes similarly greater with PAK1cko than PAK1f/f. In NRCMs, Ang II challenge replicated such increases in apamin-sensitive SK patch clamp currents as well as in real-time PCR and western blot measures of SK2 mRNA and protein expression and cell hypertrophy. Furthermore, the latter were enhanced by shRNA-PAK1 interference and mitigated by the PAK1 agonist FTY720. Increased CaMKII and CREB phosphorylation accompanied these effects. These were rescued by both FTY720 as well as the CaMKII inhibitor KN93, but not its inactive analogue KN92. Such CREB then specifically bound to the KCNN2 promoter sequence in luciferase assays. These findings associate Ang II induced hypertrophy with increased SK2 expression brought about by a CaMKII/CREB signaling convergent with the PAK1 pathway thence upregulating the KCNN2 promoter activity. SK2 may then influence cardiac electrophysiology under conditions of cardiac hypertrophy and failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binbin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of the Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China; Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration Laboratory, The Affiliated Stomatology Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Qin Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of the Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China; Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Shicheng He
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of the Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China; Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Tao Li
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of the Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Xianhong Ou
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of the Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Tangting Chen
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of the Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Xuehui Fan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of the Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Xiaorong Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of the Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China
| | - Christopher L-H Huang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of the Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China; Physiological Laboratory and Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Ming Lei
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of the Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China; Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3QT, UK.
| | - Xiaoqiu Tan
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of the Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiological Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China; Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan 646000, China.
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Stretching the limits of antiarrhythmic drug therapy: The promise of small-conductance calcium-activated potassium channel blockers. IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2021; 37:100924. [PMID: 34917752 PMCID: PMC8645440 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2021.100924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Small conductance calcium activated K + channel inhibitor decreases stretch induced vulnerability to atrial fibrillation. IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2021; 37:100898. [PMID: 34746364 PMCID: PMC8554272 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2021.100898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background Atrial dilation is an important risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF) and animal studies have found that acute atrial dilation shortens the atrial effective refractory period (AERP) and increases the risk of AF. Stretch activated ion channels (SACs) and calcium channels play a role in this. The expression profile and calcium dependent activation makes the small conductance calcium activated K+ channel (KCa2.x) a candidate for coupling stretch induced increases in intracellular calcium through K+-efflux and thereby shortening of atrial refractoriness. Objectives We hypothesized that KCa2.x channel inhibitors can prevent the stretch induced shortening of AERP and protect the heart from AF. Methods The effect of KCa2 channel inhibitor (N-(pyridin-2-yl)-4-(pyridin-2-yl)thiazol-2-amine (ICA) 1 µM) was investigated using the isolated perfused rabbit heart preparation. To stretch the left atrium (LA) a balloon was inserted and inflated. AERP and action potential duration (APD) were recorded before and after atrial stretch. AF was induced by burst pacing the LA at different degrees of atrial stretch. Results Stretching of the LA by increasing the balloon pressure from 0 to 20 mmHg shortened the AERP by 8.6 ± 1 ms. In comparison, the KCa2 inhibitor ICA significantly attenuated the stretch induced shortening of AERP to 2.5 ± 1.1 ms. Total AF duration increased linearly with atrial balloon pressure. This relationship was not found in the presence of ICA. ICA lowered the incidence of AF induction and total AF duration. Conclusion The KCa2 channel inhibitor ICA attenuates the acute stretch induced shortening of AERP and decreases stretch induced vulnerability to AF.
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Takla M, Edling CE, Zhang K, Saadeh K, Tse G, Salvage SC, Huang CL, Jeevaratnam K. Transcriptional profiles of genes related to electrophysiological function in Scn5a +/- murine hearts. Physiol Rep 2021; 9:e15043. [PMID: 34617689 PMCID: PMC8495800 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The Scn5a gene encodes the major pore-forming Nav 1.5 (α) subunit, of the voltage-gated Na+ channel in cardiomyocytes. The key role of Nav 1.5 in action potential initiation and propagation in both atria and ventricles predisposes organisms lacking Scn5a or carrying Scn5a mutations to cardiac arrhythmogenesis. Loss-of-function Nav 1.5 genetic abnormalities account for many cases of the human arrhythmic disorder Brugada syndrome (BrS) and related conduction disorders. A murine model with a heterozygous Scn5a deletion recapitulates many electrophysiological phenotypes of BrS. This study examines the relationships between its Scn5a+/- genotype, resulting transcriptional changes, and the consequent phenotypic presentations of BrS. Of 62 selected protein-coding genes related to cardiomyocyte electrophysiological or homeostatic function, concentrations of mRNA transcribed from 15 differed significantly from wild type (WT). Despite halving apparent ventricular Scn5a transcription heterozygous deletion did not significantly downregulate its atrial expression, raising possibilities of atria-specific feedback mechanisms. Most of the remaining 14 genes whose expression differed significantly between WT and Scn5a+/- animals involved Ca2+ homeostasis specifically in atrial tissue, with no overlap with any ventricular changes. All statistically significant changes in expression were upregulations in the atria and downregulations in the ventricles. This investigation demonstrates the value of future experiments exploring for and clarifying links between transcriptional control of Scn5a and of genes whose protein products coordinate Ca2+ regulation and examining their possible roles in BrS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Takla
- Faculty of Health and Medical ScienceUniversity of SurreyGuildfordUK
- Christ’s CollegeUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | | | - Kevin Zhang
- Faculty of Health and Medical ScienceUniversity of SurreyGuildfordUK
- School of MedicineImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Khalil Saadeh
- Faculty of Health and Medical ScienceUniversity of SurreyGuildfordUK
- Clinical SchoolUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Gary Tse
- Faculty of Health and Medical ScienceUniversity of SurreyGuildfordUK
- Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | | | - Christopher L.‐H. Huang
- Faculty of Health and Medical ScienceUniversity of SurreyGuildfordUK
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
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Jost N, Christ T, Magyar J. New Strategies for the Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14090926. [PMID: 34577626 PMCID: PMC8466466 DOI: 10.3390/ph14090926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmia in the clinical practice. It significantly contributes to the morbidity and mortality of the elderly population. Over the past 25-30 years intense effort in basic research has advanced the understanding of the relationship between the pathophysiology of AF and atrial remodelling. Nowadays it is clear that the various forms of atrial remodelling (electrical, contractile and structural) play crucial role in initiating and maintaining the persistent and permanent types of AF. Unlike in ventricular fibrillation, in AF rapid ectopic firing originating from pulmonary veins and re-entry mechanism may induce and maintain (due to atrial remodelling) this complex cardiac arrhythmia. The present review presents and discusses in detail the latest knowledge on the role of remodelling in AF. Special attention is paid to novel concepts and pharmacological targets presumably relevant to the drug treatment of atrial fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norbert Jost
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Interdisciplinary Excellence Centre, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
- ELKH-SZTE Research Group for Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Correspondence:
| | - Torsten Christ
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany;
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - János Magyar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
- Department of Sport Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
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39
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Crotti L, Odening KE, Sanguinetti MC. Heritable arrhythmias associated with abnormal function of cardiac potassium channels. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 116:1542-1556. [PMID: 32227190 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvaa068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiomyocytes express a surprisingly large number of potassium channel types. The primary physiological functions of the currents conducted by these channels are to maintain the resting membrane potential and mediate action potential repolarization under basal conditions and in response to changes in the concentrations of intracellular sodium, calcium, and ATP/ADP. Here, we review the diversity and functional roles of cardiac potassium channels under normal conditions and how heritable mutations in the genes encoding these channels can lead to distinct arrhythmias. We briefly review atrial fibrillation and J-wave syndromes. For long and short QT syndromes, we describe their genetic basis, clinical manifestation, risk stratification, traditional and novel therapeutic approaches, as well as insights into disease mechanisms provided by animal and cellular models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lia Crotti
- Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias of Genetic Origin, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Laboratory of Cardiovascular Genetics, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Cardiovascular, Neural and Metabolic Sciences, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, San Luca Hospital, Milan, Italy.,Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Katja E Odening
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center University of Freiburg, Medical Faculty, Freiburg, Germany.,Institute of Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart Center University of Freiburg, Medical Faculty, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology, Translational Cardiology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, and Institute of Physiology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Michael C Sanguinetti
- Department of Internal Medicine, Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Celotto C, Sánchez C, Mountris KA, Laguna P, Pueyo E. Location of Parasympathetic Innervation Regions From Electrograms to Guide Atrial Fibrillation Ablation Therapy: An in silico Modeling Study. Front Physiol 2021; 12:674197. [PMID: 34456743 PMCID: PMC8385640 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.674197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays an essential role in the generation and maintenance of cardiac arrhythmias. The cardiac ANS can be divided into its extrinsic and intrinsic components, with the latter being organized in an epicardial neural network of interconnecting axons and clusters of autonomic ganglia called ganglionated plexi (GPs). GP ablation has been associated with a decreased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence, but the accurate location of GPs is required for ablation to be effective. Although GP stimulation triggers both sympathetic and parasympathetic ANS branches, a predominance of parasympathetic activity has been shown. This study aims was to develop a method to locate atrial parasympathetic innervation sites based on measurements from a grid of electrograms (EGMs). Electrophysiological models representative of non-AF, paroxysmal AF (PxAF), and persistent AF (PsAF) tissues were developed. Parasympathetic effects were modeled by increasing the concentration of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) in randomly distributed circles across the tissue. Different circle sizes of ACh and fibrosis geometries were considered, accounting for both uniform diffuse and non-uniform diffuse fibrosis. Computational simulations were performed, from which unipolar EGMs were computed in a 16 × 1 6 electrode mesh. Different distances of the electrodes to the tissue (0.5, 1, and 2 mm) and noise levels with signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) values of 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 dB were tested. The amplitude of the atrial EGM repolarization wave was found to be representative of the presence or absence of ACh release sites, with larger positive amplitudes indicating that the electrode was placed over an ACh region. Statistical analysis was performed to identify the optimal thresholds for the identification of ACh sites. In all non-AF, PxAF, and PsAF tissues, the repolarization amplitude rendered successful identification. The algorithm performed better in the absence of fibrosis or when fibrosis was uniformly diffuse, with a mean accuracy of 0.94 in contrast with a mean accuracy of 0.89 for non-uniform diffuse fibrotic cases. The algorithm was robust against noise and worked for the tested ranges of electrode-to-tissue distance. In conclusion, the results from this study support the feasibility to locate atrial parasympathetic innervation sites from the amplitude of repolarization wave.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Celotto
- Aragon Institute of Engineering Research-I3A-, University of Zaragoza, IIS Aragón, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Carlos Sánchez
- Aragon Institute of Engineering Research-I3A-, University of Zaragoza, IIS Aragón, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Konstantinos A. Mountris
- Aragon Institute of Engineering Research-I3A-, University of Zaragoza, IIS Aragón, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Pablo Laguna
- Aragon Institute of Engineering Research-I3A-, University of Zaragoza, IIS Aragón, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Esther Pueyo
- Aragon Institute of Engineering Research-I3A-, University of Zaragoza, IIS Aragón, Zaragoza, Spain
- CIBER in Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, Zaragoza, Spain
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Abstract
The physiological heart function is controlled by a well-orchestrated interplay of different ion channels conducting Na+, Ca2+ and K+. Cardiac K+ channels are key players of cardiac repolarization counteracting depolarizating Na+ and Ca2+ currents. In contrast to Na+ and Ca2+, K+ is conducted by many different channels that differ in activation/deactivation kinetics as well as in their contribution to different phases of the action potential. Together with modulatory subunits these K+ channel α-subunits provide a wide range of repolarizing currents with specific characteristics. Moreover, due to expression differences, K+ channels strongly influence the time course of the action potentials in different heart regions. On the other hand, the variety of different K+ channels increase the number of possible disease-causing mutations. Up to now, a plethora of gain- as well as loss-of-function mutations in K+ channel forming or modulating proteins are known that cause severe congenital cardiac diseases like the long-QT-syndrome, the short-QT-syndrome, the Brugada syndrome and/or different types of atrial tachyarrhythmias. In this chapter we provide a comprehensive overview of different K+ channels in cardiac physiology and pathophysiology.
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Investigational Anti-Atrial Fibrillation Pharmacology and Mechanisms by Which Antiarrhythmics Terminate the Arrhythmia: Where Are We in 2020? J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2021; 76:492-505. [PMID: 33165131 PMCID: PMC7641178 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Antiarrhythmic drugs remain the mainstay therapy for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). A major disadvantage of the currently available anti-AF agents is the risk of induction of ventricular proarrhythmias. Aiming to reduce this risk, several atrial-specific or -selective ion channel block approaches have been introduced for AF suppression, but only the atrial-selective inhibition of the sodium channel has been demonstrated to be valid in both experimental and clinical studies. Among the other pharmacological anti-AF approaches, “upstream therapy” has been prominent but largely disappointing, and pulmonary delivery of anti-AF drugs seems to be promising. Major contradictions exist in the literature about the electrophysiological mechanisms of AF (ie, reentry or focal?) and the mechanisms by which anti-AF drugs terminate AF, making the search for novel anti-AF approaches largely empirical. Drug-induced termination of AF may or may not be associated with prolongation of the atrial effective refractory period. Anti-AF drug research has been largely based on the “suppress reentry” ideology; however, results of the AF mapping studies increasingly indicate that nonreentrant mechanism(s) plays an important role in the maintenance of AF. Also, the analysis of anti-AF drug-induced electrophysiological alterations during AF, conducted in the current study, leans toward the focal source as the prime mechanism of AF maintenance. More effort should be placed on the investigation of pharmacological suppression of the focal mechanisms.
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Rahm AK, Wieder T, Gramlich D, Müller ME, Wunsch MN, El Tahry FA, Heimberger T, Sandke S, Weis T, Most P, Katus HA, Thomas D, Lugenbiel P. Differential regulation of K Ca 2.1 (KCNN1) K + channel expression by histone deacetylases in atrial fibrillation with concomitant heart failure. Physiol Rep 2021; 9:e14835. [PMID: 34111326 PMCID: PMC8191401 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.14835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) with concomitant heart failure (HF) poses a significant therapeutic challenge. Mechanism‐based approaches may optimize AF therapy. Small‐conductance, calcium‐activated K+ (KCa, KCNN) channels contribute to cardiac action potential repolarization. KCNN1 exhibits predominant atrial expression and is downregulated in chronic AF patients with preserved cardiac function. Epigenetic regulation is suggested by AF suppression following histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition. We hypothesized that HDAC‐dependent KCNN1 remodeling contributes to arrhythmogenesis in AF complicated by HF. The aim of this study was to assess KCNN1 and HDAC1–7 and 9 transcript levels in AF/HF patients and in a pig model of atrial tachypacing‐induced AF with reduced left ventricular function. In HL‐1 atrial myocytes, tachypacing and anti‐Hdac siRNAs were employed to investigate effects on Kcnn1 mRNA levels. KCNN1 expression displayed side‐specific remodeling in AF/HF patients with upregulation in left and suppression in right atrium. In pigs, KCNN1 remodeling showed intermediate phenotypes. HDAC levels were differentially altered in humans and pigs, reflecting highly variable epigenetic regulation. Tachypacing recapitulated downregulation of Hdacs1, 3, 4, 6, and 7 with a tendency towards reduced Kcnn1 levels in vitro, indicating that atrial high rates induce remodeling. Finally, Kcnn1 expression was decreased by knockdown of Hdacs2, 3, 6, and 7 and enhanced by genetic Hdac9 inactivation, while anti‐Hdac1, 4, and 5 siRNAs did not affect Kcnn1 transcript levels. In conclusion, KCNN1 and HDAC expression is differentially remodeled in AF complicated by HF. Direct regulation of KCNN1 by HDACs in atrial myocytes provides a basis for mechanism‐based antiarrhythmic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Kathrin Rahm
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Teresa Wieder
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dominik Gramlich
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mara Elena Müller
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maximilian N Wunsch
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Fadwa A El Tahry
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tanja Heimberger
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Steffi Sandke
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tanja Weis
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Patrick Most
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hugo A Katus
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dierk Thomas
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Patrick Lugenbiel
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Gatta G, Sobota V, Citerni C, Diness JG, Sørensen US, Jespersen T, Bentzen BH, Zeemering S, Kuiper M, Verheule S, Schotten U, van Hunnik A. Effective termination of atrial fibrillation by SK channel inhibition is associated with a sudden organization of fibrillatory conduction. Europace 2021; 23:1847-1859. [PMID: 34080619 PMCID: PMC8576281 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euab125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Pharmacological termination of atrial fibrillation (AF) remains a challenge due to limited efficacy and potential ventricular proarrhythmic effects of antiarrhythmic drugs. SK channels are proposed as atrial-specific targets in the treatment of AF. Here, we investigated the effects of the new SK channel inhibitor AP14145. METHODS AND RESULTS Eight goats were implanted with pericardial electrodes for induction of AF (30 days). In an open-chest study, the atrial conduction velocity (CV) and effective refractory period (ERP) were measured during pacing. High-density mapping of both atrial free-walls was performed during AF and conduction properties were assessed. All measurements were performed at baseline and during AP14145 infusion [10 mg/kg/h (n = 1) or 20 mg/kg/h (n = 6)]. At an infusion rate of 20 mg/kg/h, AF terminated in five of six goats. AP14145 profoundly increased ERP and reduced CV during pacing. AP14145 increased spatiotemporal instability of conduction at short pacing cycle lengths. Atrial fibrillation cycle length and pathlength (AF cycle length × CV) underwent a strong dose-dependent prolongation. Conduction velocity during AF remained unchanged and conduction patterns remained complex until the last seconds before AF termination, during which a sudden and profound organization of fibrillatory conduction occurred. CONCLUSION AP14145 provided a successful therapy for termination of persistent AF in goats. During AF, AP14145 caused an ERP and AF cycle length prolongation. AP14145 slowed CV during fast pacing but did not lead to a further decrease during AF. Termination of AF was preceded by an abrupt organization of AF with a decline in the number of fibrillation waves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Gatta
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Vladimir Sobota
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Carlotta Citerni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Thomas Jespersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bo Hjorth Bentzen
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stef Zeemering
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Marion Kuiper
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Verheule
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Arne van Hunnik
- Department of Physiology, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Rahm AK, Gramlich D, Wieder T, Müller ME, Schoeffel A, El Tahry FA, Most P, Heimberger T, Sandke S, Weis T, Ullrich ND, Korff T, Lugenbiel P, Katus HA, Thomas D. Trigger-Specific Remodeling of K Ca2 Potassium Channels in Models of Atrial Fibrillation. Pharmgenomics Pers Med 2021; 14:579-590. [PMID: 34045886 PMCID: PMC8144362 DOI: 10.2147/pgpm.s290291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Effective antiarrhythmic treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) constitutes a major challenge, in particular, when concomitant heart failure (HF) is present. HF-associated atrial arrhythmogenesis is distinctly characterized by prolonged atrial refractoriness. Small-conductance, calcium-activated K+ (KCa, SK, KCNN) channels contribute to cardiac action potential repolarization and are implicated in AF susceptibility and therapy. The mechanistic impact of AF/HF-related triggers on atrial KCa channels is not known. We hypothesized that tachycardia, stretch, β-adrenergic stimulation, and hypoxia differentially determine KCa2.1-2.3 channel remodeling in atrial cells. METHODS KCNN1-3 transcript levels were assessed in AF/HF patients and in a pig model of atrial tachypacing-induced AF with reduced left ventricular function. HL-1 atrial myocytes were subjected to proarrhythmic triggers to investigate the effects on Kcnn mRNA and KCa channel protein. RESULTS Atrial KCNN1-3 expression was reduced in AF/HF patients. KCNN2 and KCNN3 suppression was recapitulated in the corresponding pig model. In contrast to human AF, KCNN1 remained unchanged in pigs. Channel- and stressor-specific remodeling was revealed in vitro. Lower expression levels of KCNN1/KCa2.1 were linked to stretch and β-adrenergic stimulation. Furthermore, KCNN3/KCa2.3 expression was suppressed upon tachypacing and hypoxia. Finally, KCNN2/KCa2.2 abundance was specifically enhanced by hypoxia. CONCLUSION Reduction of KCa2.1-2.3 channel expression might contribute to the action potential prolongation in AF complicated by HF. Subtype-specific KCa2 channel remodeling induced by tachypacing, stretch, β-adrenergic stimulation, or hypoxia is expected to differentially determine atrial remodeling, depending on patient-specific activation of each triggering factor. Stressor-dependent KCa2 regulation in atrial myocytes provides a starting point for mechanism-based antiarrhythmic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Kathrin Rahm
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Dominik Gramlich
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Teresa Wieder
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Mara Elena Müller
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Axel Schoeffel
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Fadwa A El Tahry
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Patrick Most
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Tanja Heimberger
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Steffi Sandke
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Tanja Weis
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Nina D Ullrich
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Thomas Korff
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, 68167, Germany
| | - Patrick Lugenbiel
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Hugo A Katus
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Dierk Thomas
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- HCR (Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders), University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
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Kany S, Reissmann B, Metzner A, Kirchhof P, Darbar D, Schnabel RB. Genetics of atrial fibrillation-practical applications for clinical management: if not now, when and how? Cardiovasc Res 2021; 117:1718-1731. [PMID: 33982075 PMCID: PMC8208749 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence and economic burden of atrial fibrillation (AF) are predicted to more than double over the next few decades. In addition to anticoagulation and treatment of concomitant cardiovascular conditions, early and standardized rhythm control therapy reduces cardiovascular outcomes as compared with a rate control approach, favouring the restoration, and maintenance of sinus rhythm safely. Current therapies for rhythm control of AF include antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) and catheter ablation (CA). However, response in an individual patient is highly variable with some remaining free of AF for long periods on antiarrhythmic therapy, while others require repeat AF ablation within weeks. The limited success of rhythm control therapy for AF is in part related to incomplete understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms and our inability to predict responses in individual patients. Thus, a major knowledge gap is predicting which patients with AF are likely to respond to rhythm control approach. Over the last decade, tremendous progress has been made in defining the genetic architecture of AF with the identification of rare mutations in cardiac ion channels, signalling molecules, and myocardial structural proteins associated with familial (early-onset) AF. Conversely, genome-wide association studies have identified common variants at over 100 genetic loci and the development of polygenic risk scores has identified high-risk individuals. Although retrospective studies suggest that response to AADs and CA is modulated in part by common genetic variation, the development of a comprehensive clinical and genetic risk score may enable the translation of genetic data to the bedside care of AF patients. Given the economic impact of the AF epidemic, even small changes in therapeutic efficacy may lead to substantial improvements for patients and health care systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinwan Kany
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bruno Reissmann
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Metzner
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Paulus Kirchhof
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.,The Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Dawood Darbar
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago and Jesse Brown Veterans Administration, 840 South Wood Street, Suite 928 M/C 715, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Renate B Schnabel
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, Martinistraße 52, 20251 Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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Guo S, Chen Z, Chen PS, Rubart M. Inhibition of Small-Conductance, Ca 2+-Activated K + Current by Ondansetron. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:651267. [PMID: 33967791 PMCID: PMC8100601 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.651267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (SK channels) have been proposed as antiarrhythmic targets for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. We previously demonstrated that the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist ondansetron inhibits heterologously expressed, human SK2 (hSK2) currents as well as native cardiac SK currents in a physiological extra-/intracellular [K+] gradient at therapeutic (i.e., sub-micromolar) concentrations. A recent study, using symmetrical [K+] conditions, challenged this result. The goal of the present study was to revisit the inhibitory effect of ondansetron on hSK2-mediated currents in symmetrical [K+] conditions. Experimental Approach: The whole-cell patch clamp technique was used to investigate the effects of ondansetron and apamin on hSK2-mediated currents expressed in HEK 293 cells. Currents were measured in symmetrical [K+] conditions in the presence of 100 nM [Ca2+]o. Results: Expression of hSK2 produced inwardly rectifying whole-cell currents in the presence of 400 nM free cytosolic Ca2+. Ondansetron inhibited whole-cell hSK2 currents with IC50 values of 154 and 113 nM at −80 and 40 mV, respectively. Macroscopic current inhibited by ondansetron and current inhibited by apamin exhibited inwardly rectifying current-voltage relationships with similar reversal potentials (apamin, ∼5 mV and ondansetron, ∼2 mV). Ondansetron (1 μM) in the continuing presence of apamin (100 nM) had no effect on hSK2-mediated whole-cell currents. Wild-type HEK 293 cells did not express ondansetron- or apamin-sensitive currents. Conclusion: Ondansetron in sub-micromolar concentrations inhibits hSK2 currents even under altered ionic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Guo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, The Krannert Institute of Cardiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Zhenhui Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, The Krannert Institute of Cardiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Peng-Sheng Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Michael Rubart
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, The Krannert Institute of Cardiology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States.,Wells Center for Pediatric Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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Verkerk AO, Marchal GA, Zegers JG, Kawasaki M, Driessen AHG, Remme CA, de Groot JR, Wilders R. Patch-Clamp Recordings of Action Potentials From Human Atrial Myocytes: Optimization Through Dynamic Clamp. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:649414. [PMID: 33912059 PMCID: PMC8072333 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.649414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia. Consequently, novel therapies are being developed. Ultimately, the impact of compounds on the action potential (AP) needs to be tested in freshly isolated human atrial myocytes. However, the frequent depolarized state of these cells upon isolation seriously hampers reliable AP recordings. Purpose: We assessed whether AP recordings from single human atrial myocytes could be improved by providing these cells with a proper inward rectifier K+ current (IK1), and consequently with a regular, non-depolarized resting membrane potential (RMP), through “dynamic clamp”. Methods: Single myocytes were enzymatically isolated from left atrial appendage tissue obtained from patients with paroxysmal AF undergoing minimally invasive surgical ablation. APs were elicited at 1 Hz and measured using perforated patch-clamp methodology, injecting a synthetic IK1 to generate a regular RMP. The injected IK1 had strong or moderate rectification. For comparison, a regular RMP was forced through injection of a constant outward current. A wide variety of ion channel blockers was tested to assess their modulatory effects on AP characteristics. Results: Without any current injection, RMPs ranged from −9.6 to −86.2 mV in 58 cells. In depolarized cells (RMP positive to −60 mV), RMP could be set at −80 mV using IK1 or constant current injection and APs could be evoked upon stimulation. AP duration differed significantly between current injection methods (p < 0.05) and was shortest with constant current injection and longest with injection of IK1 with strong rectification. With moderate rectification, AP duration at 90% repolarization (APD90) was similar to myocytes with regular non-depolarized RMP, suggesting that a synthetic IK1 with moderate rectification is the most appropriate for human atrial myocytes. Importantly, APs evoked using each injection method were still sensitive to all drugs tested (lidocaine, nifedipine, E-4031, low dose 4-aminopyridine, barium, and apamin), suggesting that the major ionic currents of the atrial cells remained functional. However, certain drug effects were quantitatively dependent on the current injection approach used. Conclusion: Injection of a synthetic IK1 with moderate rectification facilitates detailed AP measurements in human atrial myocytes. Therefore, dynamic clamp represents a promising tool for testing novel antiarrhythmic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arie O Verkerk
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gerard A Marchal
- Department of Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jan G Zegers
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Makiri Kawasaki
- Department of Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Antoine H G Driessen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Carol Ann Remme
- Department of Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Joris R de Groot
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ronald Wilders
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Targeting of Potassium Channels in Cardiac Arrhythmias. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2021; 42:491-506. [PMID: 33858691 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2021.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cardiomyocytes are endowed with a complex repertoire of ion channels, responsible for the generation of action potentials (APs), travelling waves of electrical excitation, propagating throughout the heart and leading to cardiac contractions. Cardiac AP waveforms are shaped by a striking diversity of K+ channels. The pivotal role of K+ channels in cardiac health and disease is underscored by the dramatic impact that K+ channel dysfunction has on cardiac arrhythmias. The development of drugs targeted to specific K+ channels is expected to provide an optimized approach to antiarrhythmic therapy. Here, we review the functional roles of cardiac potassium channels under normal and diseased states. We survey current antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) targeted to voltage-gated and Ca2+-activated K+ channels and highlight future research opportunities.
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The Small Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channel Inhibitors NS8593 and UCL1684 Prevent the Development of Atrial Fibrillation Through Atrial-Selective Inhibition of Sodium Channel Activity. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2021; 76:164-172. [PMID: 32453071 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying atrial-selective prolongation of effective refractory period (ERP) and suppression of atrial fibrillation (AF) by NS8593 and UCL1684, small conductance calcium-activated potassium (SK) channel blockers, are poorly defined. The purpose of the study was to confirm the effectiveness of these agents to suppress AF and to probe the underlying mechanisms. Transmembrane action potentials and pseudoelectrocardiograms were recorded from canine isolated coronary-perfused canine atrial and ventricular wedge preparations. Patch clamp techniques were used to record sodium channel current (INa) in atrial and ventricular myocytes and human embryonic kidney cells. In both atria and ventricles, NS8593 (3-10 µM) and UCL1684 (0.5 µM) did not significantly alter action potential duration, suggesting little to no SK channel inhibition. Both agents caused atrial-selective: (1) prolongation of ERP secondary to development of postrepolarization refractoriness, (2) reduction of Vmax, and (3) increase of diastolic threshold of excitation (all are sodium-mediated parameters). NS8593 and UCL1684 significantly reduced INa density in human embryonic kidney cells as well as in atrial but not in ventricular myocytes at physiologically relevant holding potentials. NS8593 caused a shift of steady-state inactivation to negative potentials in atrial but not ventricular cells. NS8593 and UCL1684 prevented induction of acetylcholine-mediated AF in 6/6 and 8/8 preparations, respectively. This anti-AF effect was associated with strong rate-dependent depression of excitability. The SK channel blockers, NS8593 and UCL1684, are effective in preventing the development of AF due to potent atrial-selective inhibition of INa, causing atrial-selective prolongation of ERP secondary to induction of postrepolarization refractoriness.
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