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Shaaban A, Scott SS, Greenlee AN, Binda N, Noor A, Webb A, Guo S, Purdy N, Pennza N, Habib A, Mohammad SJ, Smith SA. Atrial fibrillation in cancer, anticancer therapies, and underlying mechanisms. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2024; 194:118-132. [PMID: 38897563 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2024.06.005] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmic complication in cancer patients and can be exacerbated by traditional cytotoxic and targeted anticancer therapies. Increased incidence of AF in cancer patients is independent of confounding factors, including preexisting myocardial arrhythmogenic substrates, type of cancer, or cancer stage. Mechanistically, AF is characterized by fast unsynchronized atrial contractions with rapid ventricular response, which impairs ventricular filling and results in various symptoms such as fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath. Due to increased blood stasis, a consequence of both cancer and AF, concern for stroke increases in this patient population. To compound matters, cardiotoxic anticancer therapies themselves promote AF; thereby exacerbating AF morbidity and mortality in cancer patients. In this review, we examine the relationship between AF, cancer, and cardiotoxic anticancer therapies with a focus on the shared molecular and electrophysiological mechanisms linking these disease processes. We also explore the potential role of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in the management of anticancer-therapy-induced AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adnan Shaaban
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Shane S Scott
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Bob and Corrinne Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia Research, The Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ashley N Greenlee
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Bob and Corrinne Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia Research, The Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Nkongho Binda
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ali Noor
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Averie Webb
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Shuliang Guo
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Bob and Corrinne Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia Research, The Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Najhee Purdy
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Bob and Corrinne Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia Research, The Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Nicholas Pennza
- Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Athens, OH 45701, USA
| | - Alma Habib
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Somayya J Mohammad
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Bob and Corrinne Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia Research, The Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Sakima A Smith
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Bob and Corrinne Frick Center for Heart Failure and Arrhythmia Research, The Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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Song T, Hui W, Huang M, Guo Y, Yu M, Yang X, Liu Y, Chen X. Dynamic Changes in Ion Channels during Myocardial Infarction and Therapeutic Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6467. [PMID: 38928173 PMCID: PMC11203447 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In different areas of the heart, action potential waveforms differ due to differences in the expressions of sodium, calcium, and potassium channels. One of the characteristics of myocardial infarction (MI) is an imbalance in oxygen supply and demand, leading to ion imbalance. After MI, the regulation and expression levels of K+, Ca2+, and Na+ ion channels in cardiomyocytes are altered, which affects the regularity of cardiac rhythm and leads to myocardial injury. Myocardial fibroblasts are the main effector cells in the process of MI repair. The ion channels of myocardial fibroblasts play an important role in the process of MI. At the same time, a large number of ion channels are expressed in immune cells, which play an important role by regulating the in- and outflow of ions to complete intracellular signal transduction. Ion channels are widely distributed in a variety of cells and are attractive targets for drug development. This article reviews the changes in different ion channels after MI and the therapeutic drugs for these channels. We analyze the complex molecular mechanisms behind myocardial ion channel regulation and the challenges in ion channel drug therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongtong Song
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (T.S.); (W.H.); (M.H.); (Y.G.); (M.Y.); (X.Y.); (Y.L.)
- Department of Anatomy, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Wenting Hui
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (T.S.); (W.H.); (M.H.); (Y.G.); (M.Y.); (X.Y.); (Y.L.)
| | - Min Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (T.S.); (W.H.); (M.H.); (Y.G.); (M.Y.); (X.Y.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yan Guo
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (T.S.); (W.H.); (M.H.); (Y.G.); (M.Y.); (X.Y.); (Y.L.)
| | - Meiyi Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (T.S.); (W.H.); (M.H.); (Y.G.); (M.Y.); (X.Y.); (Y.L.)
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (T.S.); (W.H.); (M.H.); (Y.G.); (M.Y.); (X.Y.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yanqing Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (T.S.); (W.H.); (M.H.); (Y.G.); (M.Y.); (X.Y.); (Y.L.)
| | - Xia Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China; (T.S.); (W.H.); (M.H.); (Y.G.); (M.Y.); (X.Y.); (Y.L.)
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3
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Förster CY, Künzel SR, Shityakov S, Stavrakis S. Synergistic Effects of Weight Loss and Catheter Ablation: Can microRNAs Serve as Predictive Biomarkers for the Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4689. [PMID: 38731908 PMCID: PMC11083177 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
In atrial fibrillation (AF), multifactorial pathologic atrial alterations are manifested by structural and electrophysiological changes known as atrial remodeling. AF frequently develops in the context of underlying cardiac abnormalities. A critical mechanistic role played by atrial stretch is played by abnormal substrates in a number of conditions that predispose to AF, including obesity, heart failure, hypertension, and sleep apnea. The significant role of overweight and obesity in the development of AF is known; however, the differential effect of overweight, obesity, cardiovascular comorbidities, lifestyle, and other modifiable risk factors on the occurrence and recurrence of AF remains to be determined. Reverse remodeling of the atrial substrate and subsequent reduction in the AF burden by conversion into a typical sinus rhythm has been associated with weight loss through lifestyle changes or surgery. This makes it an essential pillar in the management of AF in obese patients. According to recently published research, microRNAs (miRs) may function as post-transcriptional regulators of genes involved in atrial remodeling, potentially contributing to the pathophysiology of AF. The focus of this review is on their modulation by both weight loss and catheter ablation interventions to counteract atrial remodeling in AF. Our analysis outlines the experimental and clinical evidence supporting the synergistic effects of weight loss and catheter ablation (CA) in reversing atrial electrical and structural remodeling in AF onset and in recurrent post-ablation AF by attenuating pro-thrombotic, pro-inflammatory, pro-fibrotic, arrhythmogenic, and male-sex-associated hypertrophic remodeling pathways. Furthermore, we discuss the promising role of miRs with prognostic potential as predictive biomarkers in guiding approaches to AF recurrence prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carola Y. Förster
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Stephan R. Künzel
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany;
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, German Red Cross Blood Donation Service North-East, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Sergey Shityakov
- Laboratory of Chemoinformatics, Infochemistry Scientific Center, ITMO University, 197101 Saint-Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Stavros Stavrakis
- Cardiovascular Section, Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
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Lei M, Salvage SC, Jackson AP, Huang CLH. Cardiac arrhythmogenesis: roles of ion channels and their functional modification. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1342761. [PMID: 38505707 PMCID: PMC10949183 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1342761] [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: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias cause significant morbidity and mortality and pose a major public health problem. They arise from disruptions in the normally orderly propagation of cardiac electrophysiological activation and recovery through successive cardiomyocytes in the heart. They reflect abnormalities in automaticity, initiation, conduction, or recovery in cardiomyocyte excitation. The latter properties are dependent on surface membrane electrophysiological mechanisms underlying the cardiac action potential. Their disruption results from spatial or temporal instabilities and heterogeneities in the generation and propagation of cellular excitation. These arise from abnormal function in their underlying surface membrane, ion channels, and transporters, as well as the interactions between them. The latter, in turn, form common regulatory targets for the hierarchical network of diverse signaling mechanisms reviewed here. In addition to direct molecular-level pharmacological or physiological actions on these surface membrane biomolecules, accessory, adhesion, signal transduction, and cytoskeletal anchoring proteins modify both their properties and localization. At the cellular level of excitation-contraction coupling processes, Ca2+ homeostatic and phosphorylation processes affect channel activity and membrane excitability directly or through intermediate signaling. Systems-level autonomic cellular signaling exerts both acute channel and longer-term actions on channel expression. Further upstream intermediaries from metabolic changes modulate the channels both themselves and through modifying Ca2+ homeostasis. Finally, longer-term organ-level inflammatory and structural changes, such as fibrotic and hypertrophic remodeling, similarly can influence all these physiological processes with potential pro-arrhythmic consequences. These normal physiological processes may target either individual or groups of ionic channel species and alter with particular pathological conditions. They are also potentially alterable by direct pharmacological action, or effects on longer-term targets modifying protein or cofactor structure, expression, or localization. Their participating specific biomolecules, often clarified in experimental genetically modified models, thus constitute potential therapeutic targets. The insights clarified by the physiological and pharmacological framework outlined here provide a basis for a recent modernized drug classification. Together, they offer a translational framework for current drug understanding. This would facilitate future mechanistically directed therapeutic advances, for which a number of examples are considered here. The latter are potentially useful for treating cardiac, in particular arrhythmic, disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Lei
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Samantha C. Salvage
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Antony P. Jackson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher L.-H. Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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5
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Hu D, Barajas-Martinez H, Zhang ZH, Duan HY, Zhao QY, Bao MW, Du YM, Burashnikov A, Monasky MM, Pappone C, Huang CX, Antzelevitch C, Jiang H. Advances in basic and translational research in atrial fibrillation. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2023; 378:20220174. [PMID: 37122214 PMCID: PMC10150218 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a very common cardiac arrhythmia with an estimated prevalence of 33.5 million patients globally. It is associated with an increased risk of death, stroke and peripheral embolism. Although genetic studies have identified a growing number of genes associated with AF, the definitive impact of these genetic findings is yet to be established. Several mechanisms, including electrical, structural and neural remodelling of atrial tissue, have been proposed to contribute to the development of AF. Despite over a century of exploration, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying AF have not been fully established. Current antiarrhythmic drugs are associated with a significant rate of adverse events and management of AF using ablation is not optimal, especially in cases of persistent AF. This review discusses recent advances in our understanding and management of AF, including new concepts of epidemiology, genetics and pathophysiological mechanisms. We review the current status of antiarrhythmic drug therapy for AF, new potential agents, as well as mechanism-based AF ablation. This article is part of the theme issue 'The heartbeat: its molecular basis and physiological mechanisms'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Hector Barajas-Martinez
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, and Lankenau Heart Institute, Wynnwood, PA 19096, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Zhong-He Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-Yi Duan
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-Yan Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Wei Bao
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Mei Du
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, People's Republic of China
| | - Alexander Burashnikov
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, and Lankenau Heart Institute, Wynnwood, PA 19096, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Michelle M. Monasky
- Arrhythmology Department, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Milan 20097, Italy
| | - Carlo Pappone
- Arrhythmology Department, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, San Donato Milanese, Milan 20097, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan 20132, Italy
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Cardiology (IMTC), San Donato Milanese, Milan 20097, Italy
| | - Cong-Xin Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Charles Antzelevitch
- Lankenau Institute for Medical Research, and Lankenau Heart Institute, Wynnwood, PA 19096, USA
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan 430060, People's Republic of China
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6
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Rabinovitch A, Rabinovitch R, Biton Y, Braunstein D, Thieberger R. A possible new cardiac heterogeneity as an arrhythmogenic driver. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7571. [PMID: 37165085 PMCID: PMC10172337 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33438-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the commonest cardiac arrhythmia, affecting 3 million people in the USA and 8 million in the EU (according to the European Society of Cardiology). So, why is it that even with the best medical care, around a third of the patients are treatment resistant. Extensive research of its etiology showed that AF and its mechanisms are still debatable. Some of the AF origins are ascribed to functional and ionic heterogeneities of the heart tissue and possibly to additional triggering agents. But, have all AF origins been detected? Are all accepted origins, in fact, arrhythmogenic? In order to study these questions and specifically to check our new idea of intermittency as an arrhythmogenesis agent, we chose to employ a mathematical model which was as simple as possible, but which could still be used to observe the basic network processes of AF development. At this point we were not interested in the detailed ionic propagations nor in the actual shapes of the induced action potentials (APs) during the AF outbreaks. The model was checked by its ability to exactly recapture the basic AF developmental stages known from experimental cardiac observations and from more elaborate mathematical models. We use a simple cellular automata 2D mathematical model of N × N matrices to elucidate the field processes leading to AF in a tissue riddled with randomly distributed heterogeneities of different types, under sinus node operation, simulated by an initial line of briefly stimulated cells inducing a propagating wave, and with or without an additional active ectopic action potential pulse, in turn simulated by a transitory operation of a specific cell. Arrhythmogenic contributions, of three different types of local heterogeneities in myocytes and their collaborations, in inducing AF are examined. These are: a heterogeneity created by diffuse fibrosis, a heterogeneity created by myocytes having different refractory periods, and a new heterogeneity type, created by intermittent operation of some myocytes. The developmental stages (target waves and spirals) and the different probabilities of AF occurring under each condition, are shown. This model was established as being capable of reproducing the known AF origins and their basic development stages, and in addition has shown: (1) That diffuse fibrosis on its own is not arrhythmogenic but in combination with other arrhythmogenic agents it can either enhance or limit AF. (2) In general, combinations of heterogeneities can act synergistically, and, most importantly, (3) The new type of intermittency heterogeneity proves to be extremely arrhythmogenic. Both the intermittency risk and the fibrosis role in AF generation were established. Knowledge of the character of these arrhythmogenesis agents can be of real importance in AF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Rabinovitch
- Physics Department, Ben-Gurion University, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
| | | | - Y Biton
- Physics Department, Ben-Gurion University, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - D Braunstein
- Physics Department, Sami Shamoon College of Engineering, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - R Thieberger
- Physics Department, Ben-Gurion University, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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7
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Brocklehurst P, Zhang H, Ye J. Effects of fibroblast on electromechanical dynamics of human atrial tissue—insights from a 2D discrete element model. Front Physiol 2022; 13:938497. [PMID: 35957981 PMCID: PMC9360525 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.938497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Roughly 75% of normal myocardial tissue volume is comprised of myocytes, however, fibroblasts by number are the most predominant cells in cardiac tissue. Previous studies have shown distinctive differences in cellular electrophysiology and excitability between myocytes and fibroblasts. However, it is still unclear how the electrical coupling between the two and the increased population of fibroblasts affects the electromechanical dynamics of cardiac tissue. This paper focuses on investigating effects of fibroblast-myocyte electrical coupling (FMEC) and fibroblast population on atrial electrical conduction and mechanical contractility by using a two-dimensional Discrete Element Method (DEM) model of cardiac tissue that is different to finite element method (FEM). In the model, the electro-mechanics of atrial cells are modelled by a biophysically detailed model for atrial electrical action potentials and myofilament kinetics, and the atrial fibroblasts are modelled by an active model that considers four active membrane ionic channel currents. Our simulation results show that the FMEC impairs myocytes’ electrical action potential and mechanical contractibility, manifested by reduced upstroke velocity, amplitude and duration of action potentials, as well as cell length shortening. At the tissue level, the FMEC slows down the conduction of excitation waves, and reduces strain of the tissue produced during a contraction course. These findings provide new insights into understandings of how FMEC impairs cardiac electrical and mechanical dynamics of the heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Brocklehurst
- Engineering Department, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Henggui Zhang
- Biological Physics Group, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Henggui Zhang, ; Jianqiao Ye,
| | - Jianqiao Ye
- Engineering Department, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Henggui Zhang, ; Jianqiao Ye,
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8
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Gu Y, Wang C, Kim N, Zhang J, Wang TM, Stowe J, Nasiri R, Li J, Zhang D, Yang A, Hsu LHH, Dai X, Mu J, Liu Z, Lin M, Li W, Wang C, Gong H, Chen Y, Lei Y, Hu H, Li Y, Zhang L, Huang Z, Zhang X, Ahadian S, Banik P, Zhang L, Jiang X, Burke PJ, Khademhosseini A, McCulloch AD, Xu S. Three-dimensional transistor arrays for intra- and inter-cellular recording. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 17:292-300. [PMID: 34949774 PMCID: PMC8994210 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-021-01040-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Electrical impulse generation and its conduction within cells or cellular networks are the cornerstone of electrophysiology. However, the advancement of the field is limited by sensing accuracy and the scalability of current recording technologies. Here we describe a scalable platform that enables accurate recording of transmembrane potentials in electrogenic cells. The platform employs a three-dimensional high-performance field-effect transistor array for minimally invasive cellular interfacing that produces faithful recordings, as validated by the gold standard patch clamp. Leveraging the high spatial and temporal resolutions of the field-effect transistors, we measured the intracellular signal conduction velocity of a cardiomyocyte to be 0.182 m s-1, which is about five times the intercellular velocity. We also demonstrate intracellular recordings in cardiac muscle tissue constructs and reveal the signal conduction paths. This platform could provide new capabilities in probing the electrical behaviours of single cells and cellular networks, which carries broad implications for understanding cellular physiology, pathology and cell-cell interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Gu
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Chunfeng Wang
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Namheon Kim
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jingxin Zhang
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Tsui Min Wang
- Departments of Bioengineering and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Stowe
- Departments of Bioengineering and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Rohollah Nasiri
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jinfeng Li
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Daibo Zhang
- Departments of Bioengineering and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Albert Yang
- Departments of Bioengineering and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Leo Huan-Hsuan Hsu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Xiaochuan Dai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Jing Mu
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Zheyuan Liu
- Electrochemical Energy Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Muyang Lin
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Weixin Li
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Chonghe Wang
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Hua Gong
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Yimu Chen
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Yusheng Lei
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Hongjie Hu
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Yang Li
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Zhenlong Huang
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Xingcai Zhang
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Samad Ahadian
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pooja Banik
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Liangfang Zhang
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Xiaocheng Jiang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
| | - Peter J Burke
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | | | - Andrew D McCulloch
- Departments of Bioengineering and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Sheng Xu
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Departments of Bioengineering and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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Sagris M, Vardas EP, Theofilis P, Antonopoulos AS, Oikonomou E, Tousoulis D. Atrial Fibrillation: Pathogenesis, Predisposing Factors, and Genetics. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010006. [PMID: 35008432 PMCID: PMC8744894 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent arrhythmia managed in clinical practice, and it is linked to an increased risk of death, stroke, and peripheral embolism. The Global Burden of Disease shows that the estimated prevalence of AF is up to 33.5 million patients. So far, successful therapeutic techniques have been implemented, with a high health-care cost burden. As a result, identifying modifiable risk factors for AF and suitable preventive measures may play a significant role in enhancing community health and lowering health-care system expenditures. Several mechanisms, including electrical and structural remodeling of atrial tissue, have been proposed to contribute to the development of AF. This review article discusses the predisposing factors in AF including the different pathogenic mechanisms, sedentary lifestyle, and dietary habits, as well as the potential genetic burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios Sagris
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.P.V.); (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (D.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-213-2088099; Fax: +30-213-2088676
| | - Emmanouil P. Vardas
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.P.V.); (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (D.T.)
- Department of Cardiology, General Hospital of Athens “G. Gennimatas”, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Theofilis
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.P.V.); (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (D.T.)
| | - Alexios S. Antonopoulos
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.P.V.); (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (D.T.)
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.P.V.); (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (D.T.)
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, “Sotiria” Thoracic Diseases Hospital of Athens, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.P.V.); (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (D.T.)
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10
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Poelzing S, Weinberg SH, Keener JP. Initiation and entrainment of multicellular automaticity via diffusion limited extracellular domains. Biophys J 2021; 120:5279-5294. [PMID: 34757078 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2021.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrically excitable cells often spontaneously and synchronously depolarize in vitro and in vivo preparations. It remains unclear how cells entrain and autorhythmically activate above the intrinsic mean activation frequency of isolated cells with or without pacemaking mechanisms. Recent studies suggest that cyclic ion accumulation and depletion in diffusion-limited extracellular volumes modulate electrophysiology by ephaptic mechanisms (nongap junction or synaptic coupling). This report explores how potassium accumulation and depletion in a restricted extracellular domain induces spontaneous action potentials in two different computational models of excitable cells without gap junctional coupling: Hodgkin-Huxley and Luo-Rudy. Importantly, neither model will spontaneously activate on its own without external stimuli. Simulations demonstrate that cells sharing a diffusion-limited extracellular compartment can become autorhythmic and entrained despite intercellular electrical heterogeneity. Autorhythmic frequency is modulated by the cleft volume and potassium fluxes through the cleft. Additionally, inexcitable cells can suppress or induce autorhythmic activity in an excitable cell via a shared cleft. Diffusion-limited shared clefts can also entrain repolarization. Critically, this model predicts a mechanism by which diffusion-limited shared clefts can initiate, entrain, and modulate multicellular automaticity in the absence of gap junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Poelzing
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Center for Heart and Reparative Medicine, and the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Roanoke, Virginia.
| | - Seth H Weinberg
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, and the Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - James P Keener
- Department of Mathematics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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11
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Amoni M, Dries E, Ingelaere S, Vermoortele D, Roderick HL, Claus P, Willems R, Sipido KR. Ventricular Arrhythmias in Ischemic Cardiomyopathy-New Avenues for Mechanism-Guided Treatment. Cells 2021; 10:2629. [PMID: 34685609 PMCID: PMC8534043 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ischemic heart disease is the most common cause of lethal ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD). In patients who are at high risk after myocardial infarction, implantable cardioverter defibrillators are the most effective treatment to reduce incidence of SCD and ablation therapy can be effective for ventricular arrhythmias with identifiable culprit lesions. Yet, these approaches are not always successful and come with a considerable cost, while pharmacological management is often poor and ineffective, and occasionally proarrhythmic. Advances in mechanistic insights of arrhythmias and technological innovation have led to improved interventional approaches that are being evaluated clinically, yet pharmacological advancement has remained behind. We review the mechanistic basis for current management and provide a perspective for gaining new insights that centre on the complex tissue architecture of the arrhythmogenic infarct and border zone with surviving cardiac myocytes as the source of triggers and central players in re-entry circuits. Identification of the arrhythmia critical sites and characterisation of the molecular signature unique to these sites can open avenues for targeted therapy and reduce off-target effects that have hampered systemic pharmacotherapy. Such advances are in line with precision medicine and a patient-tailored therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Amoni
- Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.A.); (E.D.); (S.I.); (H.L.R.); (R.W.)
- Division of Cardiology, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7935, South Africa
| | - Eef Dries
- Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.A.); (E.D.); (S.I.); (H.L.R.); (R.W.)
| | - Sebastian Ingelaere
- Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.A.); (E.D.); (S.I.); (H.L.R.); (R.W.)
- Division of Cardiology, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dylan Vermoortele
- Imaging and Cardiovascular Dynamics, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.V.); (P.C.)
| | - H. Llewelyn Roderick
- Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.A.); (E.D.); (S.I.); (H.L.R.); (R.W.)
| | - Piet Claus
- Imaging and Cardiovascular Dynamics, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.V.); (P.C.)
| | - Rik Willems
- Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.A.); (E.D.); (S.I.); (H.L.R.); (R.W.)
- Division of Cardiology, University Hospitals Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karin R. Sipido
- Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (M.A.); (E.D.); (S.I.); (H.L.R.); (R.W.)
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12
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Liu F, Wu H, Yang X, Dong Y, Huang G, Genin GM, Lu TJ, Xu F. A new model of myofibroblast-cardiomyocyte interactions and their differences across species. Biophys J 2021; 120:3764-3775. [PMID: 34280368 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2021.06.040] [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] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although coupling between cardiomyocytes and myofibroblasts is well known to affect the physiology and pathophysiology of cardiac tissues across species, relating these observations to humans is challenging because the effect of this coupling varies across species and because the sources of these effects are not known. To identify the sources of cross-species variation, we built upon previous mathematical models of myofibroblast electrophysiology and developed a mechanoelectrical model of cardiomyocyte-myofibroblast interactions as mediated by electrotonic coupling and transforming growth factor-β1. The model, as verified by experimental data from the literature, predicted that both electrotonic coupling and transforming growth factor-β1 interaction between myocytes and myofibroblast prolonged action potential in rat myocytes but shortened action potential in human myocytes. This variance could be explained by differences in the transient outward K+ current associated with differential Kv4.2 gene expression across species. Results are useful for efforts to extrapolate the results of animal models to the predicted effects in humans and point to potential therapeutic targets for fibrotic cardiomyopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fusheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Strength and Vibration of Mechanical Structures, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an, P.R. China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Hou Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Strength and Vibration of Mechanical Structures, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Strength and Vibration of Mechanical Structures, Xi'an, P.R. China; Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Yuqin Dong
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an, P.R. China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China
| | - Guoyou Huang
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, School of Civil Engineering, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Guy M Genin
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an, P.R. China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China; Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, St. Louis, Missouri; NSF Science and Technology Center for Engineering Mechanobiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Tian Jian Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Mechanics and Control of Mechanical Structures, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing, P.R. China.
| | - Feng Xu
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an, P.R. China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P.R. China.
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13
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Jiang X, Cheng H, Huang J, Cui C, Zhu Y, Lin Y, Miao W, Liu H, Chen H, Ju W, Chen M. Construction of chamber-specific engineered cardiac tissues in vitro with human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes and human foreskin fibroblasts. J Biosci Bioeng 2021; 132:198-205. [PMID: 34074596 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2021.04.012] [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: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) technology and directed cardiac differentiation technology can provide a continuous supply of cells for disease modeling, drug screening, and cell therapy. However, two-dimensional (2D) cells often fail to faithfully reflect the physiological structure and function of the heart. Considering the contractile function is the most critical and easy-to-understand function of cardiomyocytes, the engineered cardiac tissues (ECT) with mechanical properties may serve as an appropriate three-dimensional (3D) platform for drug evaluation. At present, there are various methods to generate ECTs, some of which are quite costly. In the present study, we proposed that human foreskin fibroblast (HFF) cells, as a cost-effective and accessible cell source, can promote the compaction and remodeling of ECTs. The HFFs derived ECTs displayed stable structural and functional characteristics with a higher performance-to-price ratio. Moreover, both ECTs made from atrial and ventricular cardiomyocytes showed an excellent drug response, demonstrating that the ECT with HFFs as an easy and reliable platform for drug evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Jiang
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Hongyi Cheng
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Jiayi Huang
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Chang Cui
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Yue Zhu
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Yongping Lin
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Weilun Miao
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Hailei Liu
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Hongwu Chen
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Weizhu Ju
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Minglong Chen
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
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14
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Pan Y, Xu L, Yang X, Chen M, Gao Y. The common characteristics and mutual effects of heart failure and atrial fibrillation: initiation, progression, and outcome of the two aging-related heart diseases. Heart Fail Rev 2021; 27:837-847. [PMID: 33768377 DOI: 10.1007/s10741-021-10095-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) are common chronic diseases noted in humans. AF and HF share several risk factors, such as age, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. They can interact with each other, while both their morbidity and mortality have been considerably increased. And AF and HF often occur together, suggesting a strong association between the two. However, the underlying mechanism behind this association is not well understood. Among them, aging is the most significant common risk factor, which represents an aging heart and is characterized by fibrosis and decreased number of cardiomyocytes, known as senescence-related cardiac remodeling for both atria and ventricles. Finally, it is proposed that cardiac remodeling is the key link between AF and HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxia Pan
- Heart Center & Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Li Xu
- Heart Center & Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Xinchun Yang
- Heart Center & Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Mulei Chen
- Heart Center & Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China.
| | - Yuanfeng Gao
- Heart Center & Beijing Key Laboratory of Hypertension, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China.
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15
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Li CY, Zhang JR, Hu WN, Li SN. Atrial fibrosis underlying atrial fibrillation (Review). Int J Mol Med 2021; 47:9. [PMID: 33448312 PMCID: PMC7834953 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2020.4842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common tachyarrhythmias observed in the clinic and is characterized by structural and electrical remodelling. Atrial fibrosis, an emblem of atrial structural remodelling, is a complex multifactorial and patient-specific process involved in the occurrence and maintenance of AF. Whilst there is already considerable knowledge regarding the association between AF and fibrosis, this process is extremely complex, involving intricate neurohumoral and cellular and molecular interactions, and it is not limited to the atrium. Current technological advances have made the non-invasive evaluation of fibrosis in the atria and ventricles possible, facilitating the selection of patient-specific ablation strategies and upstream treatment regimens. An improved understanding of the mechanisms and roles of fibrosis in the context of AF is of great clinical significance for the development of treatment strategies targeting the fibrous region. In the present review, a focus was placed on the atrial fibrosis underlying AF, outlining its role in the occurrence and perpetuation of AF, by reviewing recent evaluations and potential treatment strategies targeting areas of fibrosis, with the aim of providing a novel perspective on the management and prevention of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Yi Li
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Jing Rui Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
| | - Wan Ning Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Head and Neck Surgery, Tangshan Gongren Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Song Nan Li
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100029, P.R. China
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16
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Salvage SC, Huang CLH, Jackson AP. Cell-Adhesion Properties of β-Subunits in the Regulation of Cardiomyocyte Sodium Channels. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10070989. [PMID: 32630316 PMCID: PMC7407995 DOI: 10.3390/biom10070989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels drive the rising phase of the action potential, essential for electrical signalling in nerves and muscles. The Nav channel α-subunit contains the ion-selective pore. In the cardiomyocyte, Nav1.5 is the main Nav channel α-subunit isoform, with a smaller expression of neuronal Nav channels. Four distinct regulatory β-subunits (β1–4) bind to the Nav channel α-subunits. Previous work has emphasised the β-subunits as direct Nav channel gating modulators. However, there is now increasing appreciation of additional roles played by these subunits. In this review, we focus on β-subunits as homophilic and heterophilic cell-adhesion molecules and the implications for cardiomyocyte function. Based on recent cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) data, we suggest that the β-subunits interact with Nav1.5 in a different way from their binding to other Nav channel isoforms. We believe this feature may facilitate trans-cell-adhesion between β1-associated Nav1.5 subunits on the intercalated disc and promote ephaptic conduction between cardiomyocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha C. Salvage
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK;
- Correspondence: (S.C.S.); (A.P.J.); Tel.: +44-1223-765950 (S.C.S.); +44-1223-765951 (A.P.J.)
| | - Christopher L.-H. Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK;
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Antony P. Jackson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK;
- Correspondence: (S.C.S.); (A.P.J.); Tel.: +44-1223-765950 (S.C.S.); +44-1223-765951 (A.P.J.)
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17
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Stadiotti I, Piacentini L, Vavassori C, Chiesa M, Scopece A, Guarino A, Micheli B, Polvani G, Colombo GI, Pompilio G, Sommariva E. Human Cardiac Mesenchymal Stromal Cells From Right and Left Ventricles Display Differences in Number, Function, and Transcriptomic Profile. Front Physiol 2020; 11:604. [PMID: 32670081 PMCID: PMC7327120 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) are characterized by well-known physiological differences, mainly related to their different embryological origin, hemodynamic environment, function, structure, and cellular composition. Nevertheless, scarce information is available about cellular peculiarities between left and right ventricular chambers in physiological and pathological contexts. Cardiac mesenchymal stromal cells (C-MSC) are key cells affecting many functions of the heart. Differential features that distinguish LV from RV C-MSC are still underappreciated. AIM To analyze the physiological differential amount, function, and transcriptome of human C-MSC in LV versus (vs.) RV. METHODS Human cardiac specimens of LV and RV from healthy donors were used for tissue analysis of C-MSC number, and for C-MSC isolation. Paired LV and RV C-MSC were compared as for surface marker expression, cell proliferation/death ratio, migration, differentiation capabilities, and transcriptome profile. RESULTS Histological analysis showed a greater percentage of C-MSC in RV vs. LV tissue. Moreover, a higher C-MSC amount was obtained from RV than from LV after isolation procedures. LV and RV C-MSC are characterized by a similar proportion of surface markers. Functional studies revealed comparable cell growth curves in cells from both ventricles. Conversely, LV C-MSC displayed a higher apoptosis rate and RV C-MSC were characterized by a higher migration speed and collagen deposition. Consistently, transcriptome analysis showed that genes related to apoptosis regulation or extracellular matrix organization and integrins were over-expressed in LV and RV, respectively. Besides, we revealed additional pathways specifically associated with LV or RV C-MSC, including energy metabolism, inflammatory response, cardiac conduction, and pluripotency. CONCLUSION Taken together, these results contribute to the functional characterization of RV and LV C-MSC in physiological conditions. This information suggests a possible differential role of the stromal compartment in chamber-specific pathologic scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Stadiotti
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Piacentini
- Unit of Immunology and Functional Genomics, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Vavassori
- Unit of Immunology and Functional Genomics, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Mattia Chiesa
- Unit of Immunology and Functional Genomics, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Scopece
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Guarino
- Cardiovascular Tissue Bank, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Micheli
- Cardiovascular Tissue Bank, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Polvani
- Cardiovascular Tissue Bank, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Giulio Pompilio
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Sommariva
- Unit of Vascular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
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18
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Schaumann EN, Tian B. Biological Interfaces, Modulation, and Sensing with Inorganic Nano-Bioelectronic Materials. SMALL METHODS 2020; 4:1900868. [PMID: 34295965 PMCID: PMC8294120 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.201900868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The last several years have seen a large and increasing interest in scientific developments that combine methods and materials from nanotechnology with questions and applications in bioelectronics. This follows with a number of broader trends: the rapid increase in functionality for materials at the nanoscale; a growing recognition of the importance of electric fields in diverse physiological processes; and continuous improvements in technologies that are naturally complementary with bioelectronics, such as optogenetics. Here, a progress report is provided on several of the most exciting recent developments in this field. The three critical functions of biointerface formation, biological modulation, and biological sensing using newly developed nanoscale materials are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik N Schaumann
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Bozhi Tian
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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19
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Cardiomyocyte calcium handling in health and disease: Insights from in vitro and in silico studies. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 157:54-75. [PMID: 32188566 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2020.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Calcium (Ca2+) plays a central role in cardiomyocyte excitation-contraction coupling. To ensure an optimal electrical impulse propagation and cardiac contraction, Ca2+ levels are regulated by a variety of Ca2+-handling proteins. In turn, Ca2+ modulates numerous electrophysiological processes. Accordingly, Ca2+-handling abnormalities can promote cardiac arrhythmias via various mechanisms, including the promotion of afterdepolarizations, ion-channel modulation and structural remodeling. In the last 30 years, significant improvements have been made in the computational modeling of cardiomyocyte Ca2+ handling under physiological and pathological conditions. However, numerous questions involving the Ca2+-dependent regulation of different macromolecular complexes, cross-talk between Ca2+-dependent regulatory pathways operating over a wide range of time scales, and bidirectional interactions between electrophysiology and mechanics remain to be addressed by in vitro and in silico studies. A better understanding of disease-specific Ca2+-dependent proarrhythmic mechanisms may facilitate the development of improved therapeutic strategies. In this review, we describe the fundamental mechanisms of cardiomyocyte Ca2+ handling in health and disease, and provide an overview of currently available computational models for cardiomyocyte Ca2+ handling. Finally, we discuss important uncertainties and open questions about cardiomyocyte Ca2+ handling and highlight how synergy between in vitro and in silico studies may help to answer several of these issues.
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Zhao Y, Rafatian N, Wang EY, Feric NT, Lai BFL, Knee-Walden EJ, Backx PH, Radisic M. Engineering microenvironment for human cardiac tissue assembly in heart-on-a-chip platform. Matrix Biol 2020; 85-86:189-204. [PMID: 30981898 PMCID: PMC6788963 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Organ-on-a-chip systems have the potential to revolutionize drug screening and disease modeling through the use of human stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. The predictive power of these tissue models critically depends on the functional assembly and maturation of human cells that are used as building blocks for organ-on-a-chip systems. To resemble a more adult-like phenotype on these heart-on-a-chip systems, the surrounding micro-environment of individual cardiomyocyte needs to be controlled. Herein, we investigated the impact of four microenvironmental cues: cell seeding density, types and percentages of non-myocyte populations, the types of hydrogels used for tissue inoculation and the electrical conditioning regimes on the structural and functional assembly of human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiac tissues. Utilizing a novel, plastic and open-access heart-on-a-chip system that is capable of continuous non-invasive monitoring of tissue contractions, we were able to study how different micro-environmental cues affect the assembly of the cardiomyocytes into a functional cardiac tissue. We have defined conditions that resulted in tissues exhibiting hallmarks of the mature human myocardium, such as positive force-frequency relationship and post-rest potentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimu Zhao
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E5; Canada
| | - Naimeh Rafatian
- Division of Cardiology and Peter Munk Cardiac Center, University of Health Network, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2N2, Canada
| | - Erika Y Wang
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Nicole T Feric
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G9, Canada; TARA Biosystems, Inc., New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Benjamin F L Lai
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Ericka J Knee-Walden
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Peter H Backx
- Division of Cardiology and Peter Munk Cardiac Center, University of Health Network, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2N2, Canada; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada; Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, Ontario M3J 1P3, Canada; Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C4; Canada
| | - Milica Radisic
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E5; Canada; Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G9, Canada; Toronto General Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C4; Canada.
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Pereira L. Is Epac1 a good therapeutic strategy against cardiac remodelling? Cardiovasc Res 2019; 115:1-3. [PMID: 30357318 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvy267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Pereira
- Laboratory of Signalling and Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, UMR-S 1180, INSERM, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, 5, Rue Jean-Baptiste Clément, Châtenay-Malabry, France
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Living myofibroblast-silicon composites for probing electrical coupling in cardiac systems. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:22531-22539. [PMID: 31624124 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1913651116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional bioelectronics, primarily comprised of nonliving synthetic materials, lack cellular behaviors such as adaptability and motility. This shortcoming results in mechanically invasive devices and nonnatural signal transduction across cells and tissues. Moreover, resolving heterocellular electrical communication in vivo is extremely limited due to the invasiveness of traditional interconnected electrical probes. In this paper, we present a cell-silicon hybrid that integrates native cellular behavior (e.g., gap junction formation and biosignal processing) with nongenetically enabled photosensitivity. This hybrid configuration allows interconnect-free cellular modulation with subcellular spatial resolution for bioelectric studies. Specifically, we hybridize cardiac myofibroblasts with silicon nanowires and use these engineered hybrids to synchronize the electrical activity of cardiomyocytes, studying heterocellular bioelectric coupling in vitro. Thereafter, we inject the engineered myofibroblasts into heart tissues and show their ability to seamlessly integrate into contractile tissues in vivo. Finally, we apply local photostimulation with high cell specificity to tackle a long-standing debate regarding the existence of myofibroblast-cardiomyocyte electrical coupling in vivo.
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Myofibroblast modulation of cardiac myocyte structure and function. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8879. [PMID: 31222006 PMCID: PMC6586929 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45078-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
After myocardial infarction, resident fibroblasts (Fb) differentiate towards myofibroblasts (MyoFb), generating the scar tissue and the interstitial fibrosis seen in the adjacent myocardium. Fb and MyoFb have the potential to interact with cardiac myocytes (CMs) but insight into the phenotype-specific role and mode of interaction is still incomplete. Our objectives are to further define the modulation of CMs by MyoFbs compared to Fbs, as well as the role of direct contact through gap junctions vs. soluble mediators, using Fbs and CMs from pig left ventricle. Fbs were treated to maintain an undifferentiated state (SD-208) or to attain full differentiation to MyoFb (TGF-β1). Fbs and MyoFbs were co-cultured with CMs, with the possibility of direct contact or separated by a Thincert membrane. Only in direct co-culture, both Fbs and MyoFbs were able to decrease CM viability after 2 days. Only MyoFbs induced significant distal spreading of CMs in both direct and indirect co-culture. MyoFbs, but not Fbs, readily made connections with CMs in direct co-culture and connexin 43 expression in MyoFb was higher than in Fb. When coupled to CMs, MyoFbs reduced the CM action potential duration and hyperpolarized the CM resting membrane potential. Uncoupling reversed these effects. In conclusion, MyoFbs, but not Fbs, alter the CM structural phenotype. MyoFbs, but not Fbs, are likely to electrically connect to CMs and thereby modulate the CM membrane potential. These data provide further support for an active role of MyoFbs in the arrhythmogenic substrate after cardiac remodelling.
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Laredo M, Waldmann V, Khairy P, Nattel S. Age as a Critical Determinant of Atrial Fibrillation: A Two-sided Relationship. Can J Cardiol 2018; 34:1396-1406. [PMID: 30404745 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2018.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common sustained arrhythmia and a major public health burden, increases exponentially with age. However, mechanisms underlying this long-recognized association remain incompletely understood. Experimental and human studies have demonstrated the involvement of aging in several arrhythmogenic processes, including atrial electrical and structural remodelling, disturbed calcium homeostasis, and enhanced atrial ectopic activity/increased vulnerability to re-entry induction. Given this wide range of putative mechanisms, the task of delineating the specific effects of aging responsible for AF promotion is not simple, as aging is itself associated with increasing prevalence of a host of AF-predisposing conditions, including heart failure, coronary artery disease, and hypertension. Although we usually think of old age promoting AF, there is also evidence that young age may actually have a protective effect against AF occurrence. For example, the low AF incidence among populations of young patients with significant structural congenital heart disease and substantial atrial enlargement/remodelling suggests that younger age might protect against fibrillation in the diseased atrium; efforts at understating how younger age may prevent AF might be helpful in elucidating missing mechanistic links between AF and age. The goal of this paper is to review the epidemiologic and pathophysiologic evidence regarding mechanisms underlying age-related AF. Although the therapeutic options for AF have recently improved, major gaps still remain and a better understanding of the special relationship between age and AF may be important for the identification of new targets for therapeutic innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikael Laredo
- Montreal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada; AP-HP, Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, Institut de Cardiologie, Paris, France
| | - Victor Waldmann
- Montreal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Paul Khairy
- Montreal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada.
| | - Stanley Nattel
- Montreal Heart Institute, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada; Institute of Pharmacology, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany; LIRYC Center, Bordeaux, France.
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