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Liuzzo G, Pedicino D. Weekly journal scan: the KCa2 potassium channel as a promising target for the pharmacologic cardioversion of atrial fibrillation. Eur Heart J 2024; 45:1699-1700. [PMID: 38558097 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehae138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Liuzzo
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli-IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, Rome 00168, Italy
- Department of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Sciences, Catholic University School of Medicine, Largo F.Vito 1, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Daniela Pedicino
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli-IRCCS, Largo A. Gemelli 8, Rome 00168, Italy
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2
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Van NTH, Kim WK, Nam JH. Challenges in the Therapeutic Targeting of KCa Channels: From Basic Physiology to Clinical Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2965. [PMID: 38474212 PMCID: PMC10932353 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052965] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Calcium-activated potassium (KCa) channels are ubiquitously expressed throughout the body and are able to regulate membrane potential and intracellular calcium concentrations, thereby playing key roles in cellular physiology and signal transmission. Consequently, it is unsurprising that KCa channels have been implicated in various diseases, making them potential targets for pharmaceutical interventions. Over the past two decades, numerous studies have been conducted to develop KCa channel-targeting drugs, including those for disorders of the central and peripheral nervous, cardiovascular, and urinary systems and for cancer. In this review, we synthesize recent findings regarding the structure and activating mechanisms of KCa channels. We also discuss the role of KCa channel modulators in therapeutic medicine. Finally, we identify the major reasons behind the delay in bringing these modulators to the pharmaceutical market and propose new strategies to promote their application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nhung Thi Hong Van
- Department of Physiology, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Republic of Korea;
- Channelopathy Research Center (CRC), Dongguk University College of Medicine, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Kyung Kim
- Channelopathy Research Center (CRC), Dongguk University College of Medicine, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dongguk University, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo Hyun Nam
- Department of Physiology, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066, Republic of Korea;
- Channelopathy Research Center (CRC), Dongguk University College of Medicine, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea
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3
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Gong Q, LE X, Yu P, Zhuang L. Therapeutic advances in atrial fibrillation based on animal models. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2024; 25:135-152. [PMID: 38303497 PMCID: PMC10835209 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2300285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent sustained cardiac arrhythmia among humans, with its incidence increasing significantly with age. Despite the high frequency of AF in clinical practice, its etiology and management remain elusive. To develop effective treatment strategies, it is imperative to comprehend the underlying mechanisms of AF; therefore, the establishment of animal models of AF is vital to explore its pathogenesis. While spontaneous AF is rare in most animal species, several large animal models, particularly those of pigs, dogs, and horses, have proven as invaluable in recent years in advancing our knowledge of AF pathogenesis and developing novel therapeutic options. This review aims to provide a comprehensive discussion of various animal models of AF, with an emphasis on the unique features of each model and its utility in AF research and treatment. The data summarized in this review provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of AF and can be used to evaluate the efficacy and safety of novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Gong
- Institute of Genetics and Reproduction, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Intervention and Regenerative Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Cardiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, China
| | - Xuan LE
- Institute of Genetics and Reproduction, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Pengcheng Yu
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Intervention and Regenerative Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Cardiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, China
| | - Lenan Zhuang
- Institute of Genetics and Reproduction, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Intervention and Regenerative Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Cardiology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310016, China.
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4
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Holst AG, Tomcsányi J, Vestbjerg B, Grunnet M, Sørensen US, Diness JG, Bentzen BH, Edvardsson N, Hohnloser SH, Bhatt DL, Dorian P. Inhibition of the K Ca2 potassium channel in atrial fibrillation: a randomized phase 2 trial. Nat Med 2024; 30:106-111. [PMID: 38092897 PMCID: PMC10803288 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-023-02679-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Existing antiarrhythmic drugs to treat atrial fibrillation (AF) have incomplete efficacy, contraindications and adverse effects, including proarrhythmia. AP30663, an inhibitor of the KCa2 channel, has demonstrated AF efficacy in animals; however, its efficacy in humans with AF is unknown. Here we conducted a phase 2 trial in which patients with a current episode of AF lasting for 7 days or less were randomized to receive an intravenous infusion of 3 or 5 mg kg-1 AP30663 or placebo. The trial was prematurely discontinued because of slow enrollment during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The primary endpoint of the trial was cardioversion from AF to sinus rhythm within 90 min from the start of the infusion, analyzed with Bayesian statistics. Among 59 patients randomized and included in the efficacy analyses, the primary endpoint occurred in 42% (5 of 12), 55% (12 of 22) and 0% (0 of 25) of patients treated with 3 mg kg-1 AP30663, 5 mg kg-1 AP30663 or placebo, respectively. Both doses demonstrated more than 99.9% probability of superiority over placebo, surpassing the prespecified 95% threshold. The mean time to cardioversion, a secondary endpoint, was 47 (s.d. = 23) and 41 (s.d. = 24) minutes for 3 mg kg-1 and 5 mg kg-1 AP30663, respectively. AP30663 caused a transient increase in the QTcF interval, with a maximum mean effect of 37.7 ms for the 5 mg kg-1 dose. For both dose groups, no ventricular arrhythmias occurred and adverse event rates were comparable to the placebo group. AP30663 demonstrated AF cardioversion efficacy in patients with recent-onset AF episodes. KCa2 channel inhibition may be an attractive mechanism for rhythm control of AF that should be studied further in randomized trials. ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT04571385 .
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Affiliation(s)
| | - János Tomcsányi
- Cardiology Department, St. John of God Hospital, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Nils Edvardsson
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Cardiology, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Deepak L Bhatt
- Mount Sinai Heart, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Paul Dorian
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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5
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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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6
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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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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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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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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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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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11
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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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12
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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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13
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Saljic A, Norup Hertel J, Leonhardt C, Dalgas Nissen S, Dobrev D, Jepps TA, Jespersen T, Michael Sattler S. The impact of an atrial septal defect on the progression of atrial tachypacing-induced atrial fibrillation in a Danish Landrace pig: A case report. IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2022; 40:101054. [PMID: 35601525 PMCID: PMC9121229 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2022.101054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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
- Corresponding author at: Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen Blegdamsvej 3B, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Julie Norup Hertel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Caroline Leonhardt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sarah Dalgas Nissen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA
- Montréal Heart Institute and University de Montréal, Medicine and Research Center, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Thomas A. Jepps
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Jespersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stefan Michael Sattler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Gentofte University Hospital, Gentofte, Denmark
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14
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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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15
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Dai M, Jiang T, Luo CD, Du W, Wang M, Qiu QY, Wang H. Radiofrequency ablation reduces expression of SELF by upregulating the expression of microRNA-26a/b in the treatment of atrial fibrillation. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2022; 65:663-673. [PMID: 35864328 PMCID: PMC9726778 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-022-01305-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of miR-26a and miR-26b in the management of AF. METHODS Real-time PCR was carried out to determine plasma microRNA expression in AF patients pre- and post-radiofrequency ablation. The correlation between the expression of SELP and miR-26a/miR-26b was also studied using luciferase assays to establish a miR-26a/miR-26b/SELP signaling pathway. RESULTS The relative expression of SELP reached its peak in pre-ablation AF ( +) patients, while ablation treatment reduced the expression of SELP in AF ( +) patients. Similarly, AF pigs showed dysregulation of miR-26a/b and SELP, thus verifying the involvement of miR-26a/b and SELP in AF. Meanwhile, the regulatory association between SELP and miR-26a/b was also investigated, and the results showed that the presence of pre-miR-26a/b increased the levels of miR-26a/b and inhibited the mRNA/protein expression of SELP. Finally, using bioinformatic tools and luciferase assays, SELP mRNA was confirmed as the target of miR-26a/b, which affected the effect of AF ablation treatment. CONCLUSIONS RFA helped to restore circulating levels of miR-26, which were reduced in atrial fibrillation. Meanwhile, miR-26 is a potential cause for the elevated plasma levels of pro-thrombogenic SELP in that disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Dai
- grid.54549.390000 0004 0369 4060Mianyang Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 12 Changjia Alley, Fucheng District, Mianyang, 621000 Sichuan China
| | - Tao Jiang
- grid.54549.390000 0004 0369 4060Mianyang Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 12 Changjia Alley, Fucheng District, Mianyang, 621000 Sichuan China
| | - Cai-dong Luo
- grid.54549.390000 0004 0369 4060Mianyang Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 12 Changjia Alley, Fucheng District, Mianyang, 621000 Sichuan China
| | - Wei Du
- grid.54549.390000 0004 0369 4060Mianyang Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 12 Changjia Alley, Fucheng District, Mianyang, 621000 Sichuan China
| | - Min Wang
- grid.54549.390000 0004 0369 4060Mianyang Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 12 Changjia Alley, Fucheng District, Mianyang, 621000 Sichuan China
| | - Qing-yan Qiu
- grid.54549.390000 0004 0369 4060Mianyang Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 12 Changjia Alley, Fucheng District, Mianyang, 621000 Sichuan China
| | - Hu Wang
- grid.54549.390000 0004 0369 4060Mianyang Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 12 Changjia Alley, Fucheng District, Mianyang, 621000 Sichuan China
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16
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Borrego J, Feher A, Jost N, Panyi G, Varga Z, Papp F. Peptide Inhibitors of Kv1.5: An Option for the Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:1303. [PMID: 34959701 PMCID: PMC8704205 DOI: 10.3390/ph14121303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human voltage gated potassium channel Kv1.5 that conducts the IKur current is a key determinant of the atrial action potential. Its mutations have been linked to hereditary forms of atrial fibrillation (AF), and the channel is an attractive target for the management of AF. The development of IKur blockers to treat AF resulted in small molecule Kv1.5 inhibitors. The selectivity of the blocker for the target channel plays an important role in the potential therapeutic application of the drug candidate: the higher the selectivity, the lower the risk of side effects. In this respect, small molecule inhibitors of Kv1.5 are compromised due to their limited selectivity. A wide range of peptide toxins from venomous animals are targeting ion channels, including mammalian channels. These peptides usually have a much larger interacting surface with the ion channel compared to small molecule inhibitors and thus, generally confer higher selectivity to the peptide blockers. We found two peptides in the literature, which inhibited IKur: Ts6 and Osu1. Their affinity and selectivity for Kv1.5 can be improved by rational drug design in which their amino acid sequences could be modified in a targeted way guided by in silico docking experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Borrego
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem ter 1, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.B.); (A.F.); (G.P.); (Z.V.)
| | - Adam Feher
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem ter 1, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.B.); (A.F.); (G.P.); (Z.V.)
| | - 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
| | - Gyorgy Panyi
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem ter 1, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.B.); (A.F.); (G.P.); (Z.V.)
| | - Zoltan Varga
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem ter 1, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.B.); (A.F.); (G.P.); (Z.V.)
| | - Ferenc Papp
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Egyetem ter 1, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (J.B.); (A.F.); (G.P.); (Z.V.)
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17
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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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18
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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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19
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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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20
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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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21
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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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22
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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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Qi MM, Qian LL, Wang RX. Modulation of SK Channels: Insight Into Therapeutics of Atrial Fibrillation. Heart Lung Circ 2021; 30:1130-1139. [PMID: 33642173 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2021.01.009] [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: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmia in the world. Although much technological progress in the treatment of AF has been made, there is an urgent need for better treatment of AF due to its high rates of morbidity and mortality. The anti-arrhythmic drugs currently approved for marketing have significant limitations and side effects such as life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias and hypotension. The small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (SK channels) are dependent on intracellular Ca2+ concentrations, which tightly integrate with membrane potential. Given the predominant expression in the atria of many species, including humans, they are now emerging as a therapeutic target for treating AF. This review aimed to illustrate the characteristics and function of SK channels. Moreover, it discussed the regulation of SK channels and their potential as a therapeutic target of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao-Miao Qi
- Department of Cardiology, Wuxi People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ling-Ling Qian
- Department of Cardiology, Wuxi People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ru-Xing Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Wuxi People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.
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25
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Zhang XD, Thai PN, Lieu DK, Chiamvimonvat N. Cardiac small-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels in health and disease. Pflugers Arch 2021; 473:477-489. [PMID: 33624131 PMCID: PMC7940285 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-021-02535-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (SK, KCa2) channels are encoded by KCNN genes, including KCNN1, 2, and 3. The channels play critical roles in the regulation of cardiac excitability and are gated solely by beat-to-beat changes in intracellular Ca2+. The family of SK channels consists of three members with differential sensitivity to apamin. All three isoforms are expressed in human hearts. Studies over the past two decades have provided evidence to substantiate the pivotal roles of SK channels, not only in healthy heart but also with diseases including atrial fibrillation (AF), ventricular arrhythmia, and heart failure (HF). SK channels are prominently expressed in atrial myocytes and pacemaking cells, compared to ventricular cells. However, the channels are significantly upregulated in ventricular myocytes in HF and pulmonary veins in AF models. Interests in cardiac SK channels are further fueled by recent studies suggesting the possible roles of SK channels in human AF. Therefore, SK channel may represent a novel therapeutic target for atrial arrhythmias. Furthermore, SK channel function is significantly altered by human calmodulin (CaM) mutations, linked to life-threatening arrhythmia syndromes. The current review will summarize recent progress in our understanding of cardiac SK channels and the roles of SK channels in the heart in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Dong Zhang
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, GBSF 6315, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern California Health Care System, 10535 Hospital Way, Mather, CA, 95655, USA.
| | - Phung N Thai
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, GBSF 6315, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern California Health Care System, 10535 Hospital Way, Mather, CA, 95655, USA
| | - Deborah K Lieu
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, GBSF 6315, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Nipavan Chiamvimonvat
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, One Shields Avenue, GBSF 6315, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern California Health Care System, 10535 Hospital Way, Mather, CA, 95655, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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26
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Saljic A, Jespersen T, Buhl R. Anti-arrhythmic investigations in large animal models of atrial fibrillation. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:838-858. [PMID: 33624840 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) constitutes an increasing health problem in the aging population. Animal models reflecting human phenotypes are needed to understand the mechanisms of AF, as well as to test new pharmacological interventions. In recent years, a number of large animal models, primarily pigs, goats, dog and horses have been used in AF research. These animals can to a certain extent recapitulate the human pathophysiological characteristics and serve as valuable tools in investigating new pharmacological interventions for treating AF. This review focuses on anti-arrhythmic investigations in large animals. Initially, spontaneous AF in small and large mammals is discussed. This is followed by a short presentation of frequently used methods for inducing short- and long-term AF. The major focus of the review is on anti-arrhythmic compounds either frequently used in the human clinic (ranolazine, flecainide, vernakalant and amiodarone) or being promising new AF medicine candidates (IK,Ach , ISK,Ca and IK2P blockers).
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnela Saljic
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Jespersen
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rikke Buhl
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
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27
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Fenner MF, Gatta G, Sattler S, Kuiper M, Hesselkilde EM, Adler DMT, Smerup M, Schotten U, Sørensen U, Diness JG, Jespersen T, Verheule S, Van Hunnik A, Buhl R. Inhibition of Small-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Current ( I K,Ca) Leads to Differential Atrial Electrophysiological Effects in a Horse Model of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation. Front Physiol 2021; 12:614483. [PMID: 33633584 PMCID: PMC7900437 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.614483] [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: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (KCa2) channels have been proposed as a possible atrial-selective target to pharmacologically terminate atrial fibrillation (AF) and to maintain sinus rhythm. However, it has been hypothesized that the importance of the KCa2 current—and thereby the efficacy of small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ current (IK,Ca) inhibition—might be negatively related to AF duration and the extent of AF-induced remodeling. Experimental Approach and Methods To address the hypothesis of the efficacy of IK,Ca inhibition being dependent on AF duration, the anti-arrhythmic properties of the IK,Ca inhibitor NS8593 (5 mg/kg) and its influence on atrial conduction were studied using epicardial high-density contact mapping in horses with persistent AF. Eleven Standardbred mares with tachypacing-induced persistent AF (42 ± 5 days of AF) were studied in an open-chest experiment. Unipolar AF electrograms were recorded and isochronal high-density maps analyzed to allow for the reconstruction of wave patterns and changes in electrophysiological parameters, such as atrial conduction velocity and AF cycle length. Atrial anti-arrhythmic properties and adverse effects of NS8593 on ventricular electrophysiology were evaluated by continuous surface ECG monitoring. Results IK,Ca inhibition by NS8593 administered intravenously had divergent effects on right and left AF complexity and propagation properties in this equine model of persistent AF. Despite global prolongation of AF cycle length, a slowing of conduction in the right atrium led to increased anisotropy and electrical dissociation, thus increasing AF complexity. In contrast, there was no significant change in AF complexity in the LA, and cardioversion of AF was not achieved. Conclusions Intra-atrial heterogeneity in response to IK,Ca inhibition by NS8593 was observed. The investigated dose of NS8593 increased the AF cycle length but was not sufficient to induce cardioversion. In terms of propagation properties during AF, IK,Ca inhibition by NS8593 led to divergent effects in the right and left atrium. This divergent behavior may have impeded the cardioversion success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merle Friederike Fenner
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Giulia Gatta
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Stefan Sattler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marion Kuiper
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Eva Melis Hesselkilde
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ditte M T Adler
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Morten Smerup
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | | | | | - Thomas Jespersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sander Verheule
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Arne Van Hunnik
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Rikke Buhl
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
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28
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The regulation of the small-conductance calcium-activated potassium current and the mechanisms of sex dimorphism in J wave syndrome. Pflugers Arch 2021; 473:491-506. [PMID: 33411079 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-020-02500-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Apamin-sensitive small-conductance calcium-activated potassium (SK) current (IKAS) plays an important role in cardiac repolarization under a variety of physiological and pathological conditions. The regulation of cardiac IKAS relies on SK channel expression, intracellular Ca2+, and interaction between SK channel and intracellular Ca2+. IKAS activation participates in multiple types of arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachyarrhythmias, and automaticity and conduction abnormality. Recently, sex dimorphisms in autonomic control have been noticed in IKAS activation, resulting in sex-differentiated action potential morphology and arrhythmogenesis. This review provides an update on the Ca2+-dependent regulation of cardiac IKAS and the role of IKAS on arrhythmias, with a special focus on sex differences in IKAS activation. We propose that sex dimorphism in autonomic control of IKAS may play a role in J wave syndrome.
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29
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Atrial fibrillation-a complex polygenetic disease. Eur J Hum Genet 2020; 29:1051-1060. [PMID: 33279945 PMCID: PMC8298566 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-020-00784-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of arrhythmia. Epidemiological studies have documented a substantial genetic component. More than 160 genes have been associated with AF during the last decades. Some of these were discovered by classical linkage studies while the majority relies on functional studies or genome-wide association studies. In this review, we will evaluate the genetic basis of AF and the role of both common and rare genetic variants in AF. Rare variants in multiple ion-channel genes as well as gap junction and transcription factor genes have been associated with AF. More recently, a growing body of evidence has implicated structural genes with AF. An increased burden of atrial fibrosis in AF patients compared with non-AF patients has also been reported. These findings challenge our traditional understanding of AF being an electrical disease. We will focus on several quantitative landmark papers, which are transforming our understanding of AF by implicating atrial cardiomyopathies in the pathogenesis. This new AF research field may enable better diagnostics and treatment in the future.
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30
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Wong CK, Tse HF. New methodological approaches to atrial fibrillation drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2020; 16:319-329. [PMID: 33016154 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2021.1826432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia encountered in clinical practice and rhythm control using pharmacological agents is required in selected patients. Nonetheless, current medication is only modestly efficacious and associated with significant cardiovascular and systemic side effects. More efficacious and safe drugs are required to restore and maintain sinus rhythm in patients with AF. AREAS COVERED In this review, several potential drug targets are discussed including trans-membrane ion channels, intracellular calcium signaling, gap junction signaling, atrial inflammation and fibrosis, and the autonomic nervous system. New tools and methodologies for AF drug development are also reviewed including gene therapy, genome-guided therapy, stem cell technologies, tissue engineering, and optogenetics. EXPERT OPINION In recent decades, there has been an increased understanding of the underlying pathogenesis of AF. As a result, there is a gradual paradigm shift from focusing only on trans-membrane ion channel inhibition to developing therapeutic agents that target other underlying arrhythmogenic mechanisms. Gene therapy and genome-guided therapy are emerging as novel treatments for AF with some success in proof-of-concept studies. Recent advances in stem cell technology, tissue engineering, and optogenetics may allow more effective in-vitro drug screening than conventional methodologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Ka Wong
- Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR China
| | - Hung-Fat Tse
- Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR China
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31
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Saljic A, Muthukumarasamy KM, la Cour JM, Boddum K, Grunnet M, Berchtold MW, Jespersen T. Impact of arrhythmogenic calmodulin variants on small conductance Ca 2+ -activated K + (SK3) channels. Physiol Rep 2020; 7:e14210. [PMID: 31587513 PMCID: PMC6778599 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.14210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Calmodulin (CaM) is a ubiquitous Ca2+‐sensing protein regulating many important cellular processes. Several CaM‐associated variants have been identified in a small group of patients with cardiac arrhythmias. The mechanism remains largely unknown, even though a number of ion channels, including the ryanodine receptors and the L‐type calcium channels have been shown to be functionally affected by the presence of mutant CaM. CaM is constitutively bound to the SK channel, which underlies the calcium‐gated ISK contributing to cardiac repolarization. The CaM binding to SK channels is essential for gating, correct assembly, and membrane expression. To elucidate the effect of nine different arrhythmogenic CaM variants on SK3 channel function, HEK293 cells stably expressing SK3 were transiently co‐transfected with CaMWT or variant and whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings were performed with a calculated free Ca2+ concentration of 400 nmol/L. MDCK cells were transiently transfected with SK3 and/or CaMWT or variant to address SK3 and CaM localization by immunocytochemistry. The LQTS‐associated variants CaMD96V, CaMD130G, and CaMF142L reduced ISK,Ca compared with CaMWT (P < 0.01, P < 0.001, and P < 0.05, respectively). The CPVT associated variant CaMN54I also reduced the ISK,Ca (P < 0.05), which was linked to an accumulation of SK3/CaMN54I channel complexes in intracellular compartments (P < 0.05). The CPVT associated variants, CaMA103V and CaMD132E only revealed a tendency toward reduced current, while the variants CaMF90L and CaMN98S, causing LQTS syndrome, did not have any impact on ISK,Ca. In conclusion, we found that the arrhythmogenic CaM variants CaMN54I, CaMD96V, CaMD130G, and CaMF142L significantly down‐regulate the SK3 channel current, but with distinct mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnela Saljic
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kalai Mangai Muthukumarasamy
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jonas Marstrand la Cour
- Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kim Boddum
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Martin Werner Berchtold
- Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Jespersen
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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32
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Saljic A, Soattin L, Trachsel DS, Boddum K, Jespersen T. In vivo knockdown of SK3 channels using antisense oligonucleotides protects against atrial fibrillation in rats. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2020; 147:18-26. [PMID: 32768409 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2020.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION GapmeRs are oligonucleotides that bind to a specific RNA sequence and thereby affecting posttranscriptional gene regulation. They therefore hold the potential to manipulate targets where current pharmacological modulators are inefficient or exhibit adverse side effects. Here, we show that a treatment with a GapmeR, mediating knockdown of small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (SK3), has an in vivo protective effect against atrial fibrillation (AF) in rats. MATERIAL AND METHODS A unique SK3-GapmeR design was selected after thorough in vitro evaluation. 22 rats were randomly assigned to receive either 50 mg/kg SK3-GapmeR or vehicle subcutaneously once a week for two weeks. Langendorff experiments were performed seven days after the last injection, where action potential duration (APD90), effective refractory period (ERP) and AF propensity were investigated. SK3 channel activity was evaluated using the SK channel blocker, ICA (N-(pyridin-2-yl)-4-(pyridine-2-yl)thiazol-2-amine). SK3 protein expression was assessed by Western Blot. RESULTS The designed GapmeR effectively down-regulate the SK3 protein expression in the heart (48% downregulation, p = 0.0095) and did indeed protect against AF. Duration of AF episodes elicited by burst pacing in the rats treated with SK3-GapmeR was reduced 78% compared to controls (3.7 s vs. 16.8 s, p = 0.0353). The number of spontaneous AF episodes were decreased by 68% in the SK3-GapmeR group (39 episodes versus 123 in the control group, respectively) and were also significantly shorter in duration (7.2 s versus 29.7 s in the control group, p = 0.0327). Refractoriness was not altered at sinus rhythm, but ERP prolongation following ICA application was blunted in the SK3-GapmeR group. CONCLUSION The selected GapmeR silenced the cardiac SK3 channels, thereby preventing AF in rats. Thus, GapmeR technology can be applied as an experimental tool of downregulation of cardiac proteins and could potentially offer a novel modality for treatment of cardiac diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnela Saljic
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Luca Soattin
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom; Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dagmar S Trachsel
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kim Boddum
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Jespersen
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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33
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Gal P, Klaassen ES, Bergmann KR, Saghari M, Burggraaf J, Kemme MJB, Sylvest C, Sørensen U, Bentzen BH, Grunnet M, Diness JG, Edvardsson N. First Clinical Study with AP30663 - a K Ca 2 Channel Inhibitor in Development for Conversion of Atrial Fibrillation. Clin Transl Sci 2020; 13:1336-1344. [PMID: 32725783 PMCID: PMC7719388 DOI: 10.1111/cts.12835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacological cardioversion of atrial fibrillation (AF) is frequently inefficacious. AP30663, a small conductance Ca2+ activated K+ (KCa2) channel blocker, prolonged the atrial effective refractory period in preclinical studies and subsequently converted AF into normal sinus rhythm. This first‐in‐human study evaluated the safety and tolerability, and pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) effects were explored. Forty‐seven healthy male volunteers (23.7 ± 3.0 years) received AP30663 intravenously in ascending doses. Due to infusion site reactions, changes to the formulation and administration were implemented in the latter 24 volunteers. Extractions from a 24‐hour continuous electrocardiogram were used to evaluate the PD effect of AP30663. Data were analyzed with a repeated measure analysis of covariance, noncompartmental analysis, and concentration‐effect analysis. In total, 33 of 34 adverse events considered related to AP30663 exposure were related to the infusion site, mild in severity, and temporary in nature, although full recovery took up to 110 days. After formulation and administration changes, the local infusion site reaction remained, but the median duration was shorter despite higher dose levels. AP30663 displayed a less than dose proportional increase in peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and a terminal half‐life of around 5 hours. In healthy volunteers, no effect of AP30663 was observed on electrocardiographic parameters, other than a concentration‐dependent effect on the corrected QT Fridericia’s formula interval (+18.8 ± 4.3 ms for the highest dose level compared with time matched placebo). In conclusion, administration of AP30663, a novel KCa2 channel inhibitor, was safe and well‐tolerated systemically in humans, supporting further development in patients with AF undergoing cardioversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pim Gal
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Mahdi Saghari
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jacobus Burggraaf
- Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Nils Edvardsson
- Acesion Pharma ApS, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Cardiology, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Fenner MF, Carstensen H, Dalgas Nissen S, Melis Hesselkilde E, Scott Lunddahl C, Adler Hess Jensen M, Loft-Andersen AV, Sattler SM, Platonov P, El-Haou S, Jackson C, Tang R, Kirby R, Ford J, Schotten U, Milnes J, Svane Sørensen U, Jespersen T, Buhl R. Effect of selective I K,ACh inhibition by XAF-1407 in an equine model of tachypacing-induced persistent atrial fibrillation. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:3778-3794. [PMID: 32436234 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Inhibition of the G-protein gated ACh-activated inward rectifier potassium current, IK,ACh may be an effective atrial selective treatment strategy for atrial fibrillation (AF). Therefore, the anti-arrhythmic and electrophysiological properties of a novel putatively potent and highly specific IK,ACh inhibitor, XAF-1407 (3-methyl-1-[5-phenyl-4-[4-(2-pyrrolidin-1-ylethoxymethyl)-1-piperidyl]thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-6-yl]azetidin-3-ol), were characterised for the first time in vitro and investigated in horses with persistent AF. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The pharmacological ion channel profile of XAF-1407 was investigated using cell lines expressing relevant ion channels. In addition, eleven horses were implanted with implantable cardioverter defibrillators enabling atrial tachypacing into self-sustained AF. The electrophysiological effects of XAF-1407 were investigated after serial cardioversions over a period of 1 month. Cardioversion success, drug-induced changes of atrial tissue refractoriness, and ventricular electrophysiology were assessed at baseline (day 0) and days 3, 5, 11, 17, and 29 after AF induction. KEY RESULTS XAF-1407 potently and selectively inhibited Kir 3.1/3.4 and Kir 3.4/3.4, underlying the IK,ACh current. XAF-1407 treatment in horses prolonged atrial effective refractory period as well as decreased atrial fibrillatory rate significantly (~20%) and successfully cardioverted AF, although with a decreasing efficacy over time. XAF-1407 shortened atrioventricular-nodal refractoriness, without effect on QRS duration. QTc prolongation (4%) within 15 min of drug infusion was observed, however, without any evidence of ventricular arrhythmia. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS XAF-1407 efficiently cardioverted sustained tachypacing-induced AF of short duration in horses without notable side effects. This supports IK,ACh inhibition as a potentially safe treatment of paroxysmal AF in horses, suggesting potential clinical value for other species including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merle Friederike Fenner
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Helena Carstensen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Sarah Dalgas Nissen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Eva Melis Hesselkilde
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Christine Scott Lunddahl
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Maja Adler Hess Jensen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Ameli Victoria Loft-Andersen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Stefan Michael Sattler
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Munich, Campus Grosshadern, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Pyotr Platonov
- Arrhythmia Clinic, Skåne University Hospital and Department of Cardiology, Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Thomas Jespersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rikke Buhl
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
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Yu Y, Luo D, Li Z, Zhang J, Li F, Qiao J, Yu F, Li M. Inhibitory Effects of Dronedarone on Small Conductance Calcium Activated Potassium Channels in Patients with Chronic Atrial Fibrillation: Comparison to Amiodarone. Med Sci Monit 2020; 26:e924215. [PMID: 32470968 PMCID: PMC7282350 DOI: 10.12659/msm.924215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysfunction of small conductance calcium activated potassium (SK) channels plays a vital role in atrial arrhythmogenesis. Amiodarone and dronedarone are the most effective class III antiarrhythmic drugs. It is unclear whether the antiarrhythmic effect of amiodarone and dronedarone is related to SK channel inhibition. MATERIAL AND METHODS Tissue samples were obtained from the right atria of 46 patients with normal sinus rhythm and 39 patients with chronic atrial fibrillation. Isolated atrial myocytes were obtained by enzymatic dissociation. KCNN2 (SK2) channels were transiently expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells. SK currents were recorded using whole-cell conventional patch clamp techniques. RESULTS Amiodarone and dronedarone showed a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect on SK currents (IKAS) in atrial myocytes from normal sinus rhythm patients and chronic atrial fibrillation patients. The suppressed efficacy of dronedarone and amiodarone on IKAS was greater in atrial myocytes from chronic atrial fibrillation patients than that from normal sinus rhythm patients. Furthermore, in patients with chronic atrial fibrillation, the IC₅₀ value was 2.42 µM with dronedarone and 8.03 µM with amiodarone. In HEK-293 cells with transiently transfected SK2 channels, both dronedarone and amiodarone had a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on IKAS. The IC₅₀ value was 1.7 µM with dronedarone and 7.2 µM with amiodarone in cells from patients with chronic atrial fibrillation. Compared to amiodarone, dronedarone is more efficacy to inhibit IKAS and could be a potential intervention for patients with chronic atrial fibrillation. CONCLUSIONS Dronedarone provides a great degree of IKAS inhibition in atrial myocytes from chronic atrial fibrillation than amiodarone. IKAS might be a potential target of amiodarone and dronedarone for the management of chronic atrial fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyan Yu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiology Key Lab of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China (mainland).,Department of Electrocardiography, The Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China (mainland)
| | - Dan Luo
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiology Key Lab of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China (mainland)
| | - Zhiyi Li
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiology Key Lab of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China (mainland)
| | - Juan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiology Key Lab of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China (mainland)
| | - Fang Li
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiology Key Lab of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China (mainland)
| | - Jie Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiology Key Lab of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China (mainland)
| | - Fengxu Yu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China (mainland)
| | - Miaoling Li
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Medical Electrophysiology Key Lab of Sichuan Province, Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China (mainland).,Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China (mainland)
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36
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Diness JG, Abildgaard L, Bomholtz SH, Skarsfeldt MA, Edvardsson N, Sørensen US, Grunnet M, Bentzen BH. Inhibition of K Ca2 Channels Decreased the Risk of Ventricular Arrhythmia in the Guinea Pig Heart During Induced Hypokalemia. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:749. [PMID: 32508659 PMCID: PMC7251152 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypokalemia reduces the cardiac repolarization reserve. This prolongs the QT-interval and increases the risk of ventricular arrhythmia; a risk that is exacerbated by administration of classical class 3 anti-arrhythmic agents.Small conductance Ca2+-activated K+-channels (KCa2) are a promising new atrial selective target for treatment of atrial fibrillation. Under physiological conditions KCa2 plays a minor role in ventricular repolarization. However, this might change under hypokalemia because of concomitant increases in ventriculay -60r intracellur Ca2+. PURPOSE To study the effects of pharmacological KCa2 channel inhibition by the compounds AP14145, ICA, or AP30663 under hypokalemic conditions as compared to dofetilide and hypokalemia alone time-matched controls (TMC). METHODS The current at +10 mV was compared in HEK293 cells stably expressing KCa2.3 perfused first with normo- and then hypokalemic solutions (4 mM K+ and 2.5 mM K+, respectively). Guinea pig hearts were isolated and perfused with normokalemic (4 mM K+) Krebs-Henseleit solution, followed by perfusion with drug or vehicle control. The perfusion was then changed to hypokalemic solution (2.5 mM K+) in presence of drug. 30 animals were randomly assigned to 5 groups: ICA, AP14145, AP30663, dofetilide, or TMC. QT-interval, the interval from the peak to the end of the T wave (Tp-Te), ventricular effective refractory period (VERP), arrhythmia score, and ventricular fibrillation (VF) incidence were recorded. RESULTS Hypokalemia slightly increased KCa2.3 current compared to normokalemia. Application of KCa2 channel inhibitors and dofetilide prolonged the QT interval corrected for heart rate. Dofetilide, but none of the KCa2 channel inhibitors increased Tp-Te during hypokalemia. During hypokalemia 4/6 hearts in the TMC group developed VF (two spontaneously, two by S1S2 stimulation) whereas 5/6 hearts developed VF in the dofetilide group (two spontaneously, three by S1S2 stimulation). In comparison, 0/6, 1/6, and 1/6 hearts developed VF when treated with the KCa2 channel inhibitors AP30663, ICA, or AP14145, respectively. CONCLUSION Hypokalemia was associated with an increased incidence of VF, an effect that also seen in the presence of dofetilide. In comparison, the structurally and functionally different KCa2 channel inhibitors, ICA, AP14145, and AP30663 protected the heart from hypokalemia induced VF. These results support that KCa2 inhibition may be associated with a better safety and tolerability profile than dofetilide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sofia Hammami Bomholtz
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mark Alexander Skarsfeldt
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nils Edvardsson
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Cardiology, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | | | - Bo Hjorth Bentzen
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Cardiology, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Yang M, Wang Y, Xiong X, Xie B, Liu J, Yin J, Zi L, Wang X, Tang Y, Huang C, Zhao Q. SK4 calcium-activated potassium channels activated by sympathetic nerves enhances atrial fibrillation vulnerability in a canine model of acute stroke. Heliyon 2020; 6:e03928. [PMID: 32420493 PMCID: PMC7215192 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e03928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background New-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) is common in patients with acute stroke (AS). Studies have shown that intermediate-conductance calcium-activated potassium channel channels (SK4) play an important role in cardiomyocyte automaticity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of SK4 on AF vulnerability in dogs with AS. Experimental Eighteen dogs were randomly divided into a control group, AS group and left stellate ganglion ablation (LSGA) group. In the control group, dogs received craniotomy without right middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). AS dogs were established using a cerebral ischemic model with right MCAO. LSGA dogs underwent MCAO, and LSGA was performed. Results Three days later, the dispersion of the effective refractory period (dERP) and AF vulnerability in the AS group were significantly increased compared with those in the control group and LSGA group. However, no significant difference in dERP and AF vulnerability was found between the control group and the LSGA group. The SK4 inhibitor (TRAM-34) completely inhibited the inducibility of AF in AS dogs. SK4 expression and levels of noradrenaline (NE), β1-AR, p38 and c-Fos in the atrium were higher in the AS dogs than in the control group or LSGA group. However, no significant difference in SK4 expression or levels of NE, β1-AR, p38 and c-Fos in the left atrium was observed between the control group and LSGA group. Conclusion SK4 plays a key role in AF vulnerability in a canine model with AS. The effects of LSGA on AF vulnerability were associated with the p38 signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
| | - Youcheng Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
| | - Xiaoxing Xiong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
| | - Baojun Xie
- Department of Radiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
| | - Junkui Yin
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
| | - Liuliu Zi
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
| | - Yanhong Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
| | - Congxin Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
| | - Qingyan Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, 238 Jiefang Road, Wuchang, Wuhan City, 430060, PR China
- Corresponding author.
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Bentzen BH, Bomholtz SH, Simó-Vicens R, Folkersen L, Abildgaard L, Speerschneider T, Muthukumarasamy KM, Edvardsson N, Sørensen US, Grunnet M, Diness JG. Mechanisms of Action of the KCa2-Negative Modulator AP30663, a Novel Compound in Development for Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation in Man. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:610. [PMID: 32477117 PMCID: PMC7232560 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (SK channels, KCa2) are a new target for treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). AP30663 is a small molecule inhibitor of KCa2 channels that is currently in clinical development for treatment of AF. The aim of this study is to present the electrophysiological profile and mechanism of action of AP30663 and its efficacy in prolonging atrial refractoriness in rodents, and by bioinformatic analysis investigate if genetic variants in KCNN2 or KCNN3 influence the expression level of these in human heart tissue. Methods and Results Whole-cell and inside-out patch-clamp recordings of heterologously expressed KCa2 channels revealed that AP30663 inhibits KCa2 channels with minor effects on other relevant cardiac ion channels. AP30663 modulates the KCa2.3 channel by right-shifting the Ca2+-activation curve. In isolated guinea pig hearts AP30663 significantly prolonged the atrial effective refractory period (AERP) with minor effects on the QT-interval corrected for heart rate. Similarly, in anaesthetized rats 5 and 10 mg/kg of AP30663 changed the AERP to 130.7±5.4% and 189.9±18.6 of baseline values. The expression quantitative trait loci analyses revealed that the genome wide association studies for AF SNP rs13376333 in KCNN3 is associated with increased mRNA expression of KCNN3 in human atrial appendage tissue. Conclusions AP30663 is a novel negative allosteric modulator of KCa2 channels that concentration-dependently prolonged rodent atrial refractoriness with minor effects on the QT-interval. Moreover, AF associated SNPs in KCNN3 influence KCNN3 mRNA expression in human atrial tissue. These properties support continued development of AP30663 for treatment of AF in man.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Hjorth Bentzen
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sofia Hammami Bomholtz
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rafel Simó-Vicens
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lasse Folkersen
- Institute of Biological Psychiatry, Sankt Hans Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | | | - Tobias Speerschneider
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kalai Mangai Muthukumarasamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nils Edvardsson
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Cardiology, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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39
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Citerni C, Kirchhoff J, Olsen LH, Sattler SM, Grunnet M, Edvardsson N, Bentzen BH, Diness JG. Inhibition of K Ca2 and K v11.1 Channels in Pigs With Left Ventricular Dysfunction. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:556. [PMID: 32435191 PMCID: PMC7219273 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Inhibition of KCa2 channels, conducting IKCa, can convert atrial fibrillation (AF) to sinus rhythm and protect against its induction. IKCa inhibition has been shown to possess functional atrial selectivity with minor effects on ventricles. Under pathophysiological conditions with ventricular remodeling, however, inhibiting IKCa can exhibit both proarrhythmic and antiarrhythmic ventricular effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the IKCa inhibitor AP14145, when given before or after the IKr blocker dofetilide, on cardiac function and ventricular proarrhythmia markers in pigs with or without left ventricular dysfunction (LVD). Methods Landrace pigs were randomized into an AF group (n = 6) and two control groups: SHAM1 (n = 8) and SHAM2 (n = 4). AF pigs were atrially tachypaced (A-TP) for 43 ± 4 days until sustained AF and LVD developed. A-TP and SHAM1 pigs received 20 mg/kg AP14145 followed by 100 µg/kg dofetilide whereas SHAM2 pigs received the same drugs in the opposite order. Proarrhythmic markers such as short-term variability of QT (STVQT) and RR (STVRR) intervals, and the number of premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) were measured at baseline and after administration of drugs. The influence on cardiac function was assessed by measuring cardiac output, stroke volume, and relevant echocardiographic parameters. Results IKCa inhibition by AP14145 did not increase STVQT or STVRR in any of the pigs. IKr inhibition by dofetilide markedly increased STVQT in the A-TP pigs, but not in SHAM operated pigs. Upon infusion of AP14145 the number of PVCs decreased or remained unchanged both when AP14145 was infused after baseline and after dofetilide. Conversely, the number of PVCs increased or remained unchanged upon dofetilide infusion. Neither AP14145 nor dofetilide affected relevant echocardiographic parameters, cardiac output, or stroke volume in any of the groups. Conclusion IKCa inhibition with AP14145 was not proarrhythmic in healthy pigs, or in the presence of LVD resulting from A-TP. In pigs already challenged with 100 µg/kg dofetilide there were no signs of proarrhythmia when 20 mg/kg AP14145 were infused. KCa2 channel inhibition did not affect cardiac function, implying that KCa2 inhibitors can be administered safely also in the presence of LV dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Citerni
- Biomedical Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Lisbeth Høier Olsen
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Stefan Michael Sattler
- Biomedical Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Cardiology, Heart Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Nils Edvardsson
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Bo Hjorth Bentzen
- Biomedical Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
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40
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Citerni C, Kirchhoff J, Olsen LH, Sattler SM, Gentilini F, Forni M, Zannoni A, Grunnet M, Edvardsson N, Bentzen BH, Diness JG. Characterization of Atrial and Ventricular Structural Remodeling in a Porcine Model of Atrial Fibrillation Induced by Atrial Tachypacing. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:179. [PMID: 32328502 PMCID: PMC7160334 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is characterized by electrical and structural remodeling. Irregular and/or fast atrio-ventricular (AV) conduction during AF can result in AV dyssynchrony, tachymyopathy, pressure and volume overload with subsequent dilatation, valve regurgitation, and ventricular dysfunction with progression to heart failure. Objective: To gain further insight into the myocardial pathophysiological changes induced by right atrial tachypacing (A-TP) in a large animal model. Methods: A total of 28 Landrace pigs were randomized as 14 into AF-induced A-TP group and 14 pigs to control group. AF pigs were tachypaced for 43 ± 4 days until in sustained AF. Functional remodeling was investigated by echocardiography (after cardioversion to sinus rhythm). Structural remodeling was quantified by histological preparations with picrosirius red and immunohistochemical stainings. Results: A-TP resulted in decreased left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) accompanied by increased end-diastolic and end-systolic left atrium (LA) volume and area. In addition, A-TP was associated with mitral valve (MV) regurgitation, diastolic dysfunction and increased atrial and ventricular fibrotic extracellular matrix (ECM). Conclusions: A-TP induced AF with concomitant LV systolic and diastolic dysfunction, increased LA volume and area, and atrial and ventricular fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Citerni
- Biomedical Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Lisbeth Høier Olsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Stefan Michael Sattler
- Biomedical Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Cardiology, Heart Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Medical Department I, University Hospital Grosshadern, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Fabio Gentilini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Monica Forni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Augusta Zannoni
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Nils Edvardsson
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Cardiology, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Bo Hjorth Bentzen
- Biomedical Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
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41
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Role of intermediate-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels in atrial fibrillation in canines with rapid atrial pacing. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2020; 60:247-253. [PMID: 32248426 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-020-00736-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the present study was to explore the role of intermediate-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (SK4) in atrial fibrillation (AF) inducibility in canines with rapid atrial pacing. METHODS Eighteen dogs were divided into the control group, the pacing group and the stellate ganglion ablation (SGA) + pacing group. In the pacing group, dogs were subjected to rapid atrial pacing, and the atrial effective refractory period (AERP) and AF inducibility were measured. After cessation of 7-h pacing, SK4 inhibitor (TRAM-34) was administered. After SGA, the SGA + pacing group received the same procedure of pacing and electrophysiological measurement as the pacing group. The expression of SK4 was measured in the left atrium (LA) and the right atrium (RA) in the three groups. RESULTS The duration of the AERP decreased, while the number of AF episodes, the duration of induced AF, and the amplitude of stellate ganglion neural activity all increased after rapid atrial pacing. TRAM-34 completely inhibited AF induction in the pacing group. There was no significant difference in AERP shortening or AF vulnerability between the SGA + pacing group and the control group. The expression of SK4 in the LA and RA was higher in the pacing group than in the control and SGA + pacing groups. However, there was no significant difference in the expression of SK4 in the LA or the RA between the SGA + pacing group and the control group. CONCLUSION The higher expression of SK4 plays an important role in AF induction and the increased expression of SK4 in the atrium is related to SG activity during rapid atrial pacing.
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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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Diness JG, Kirchhoff JE, Speerschneider T, Abildgaard L, Edvardsson N, Sørensen US, Grunnet M, Bentzen BH. The K Ca2 Channel Inhibitor AP30663 Selectively Increases Atrial Refractoriness, Converts Vernakalant-Resistant Atrial Fibrillation and Prevents Its Reinduction in Conscious Pigs. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:159. [PMID: 32180722 PMCID: PMC7059611 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS To describe the effects of the KCa2 channel inhibitor AP30663 in pigs regarding tolerability, cardiac electrophysiology, pharmacokinetics, atrial functional selectivity, effectiveness in cardioversion of tachy-pacing induced vernakalant-resistant atrial fibrillation (AF), and prevention of reinduction of AF. METHODS AND RESULTS Six healthy pigs with implanted pacemakers and equipped with a Holter monitor were used to compare the effects of increasing doses (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 mg/kg) of AP30663 on the right atrial effective refractory period (AERP) and on various ECG parameters, including the QT interval. Ten pigs with implanted neurostimulators were long-term atrially tachypaced (A-TP) until sustained vernakalant-resistant AF was present. 20 mg/kg AP30663 was tested to discover if it could successfully convert vernakalant-resistant AF to sinus rhythm (SR) and protect against reinduction of AF. Seven anesthetized pigs were used for pharmacokinetic experiments. Two pigs received an infusion of 20 mg/kg AP30663 over 60 min while five pigs received 5 mg/kg AP30663 over 30 min. Blood samples were collected before, during, and after infusion on AP30663. AP30663 was well-tolerated and prominently increased the AERP in pigs with little effect on ventricular repolarization. Furthermore, it converted A-TP induced AF that had become unresponsive to vernakalant, and it prevented reinduction of AF in pigs. Both a >30 ms increase of the AERP and conversion of AF occurred in different pigs at a free plasma concentration level of around 1.0-1.4 µM of AP30663, which was achieved at a dose level of 5 mg/kg. CONCLUSION AP30663 has shown properties in animals that would be of clinical interest in man.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tobias Speerschneider
- Department of In Vivo Pharmacology, Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lea Abildgaard
- Department of In Vivo Pharmacology, Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nils Edvardsson
- Department of In Vivo Pharmacology, Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Cardiology, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ulrik S. Sørensen
- Department of In Vivo Pharmacology, Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Grunnet
- Department of In Vivo Pharmacology, Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bo Hjorth Bentzen
- Department of In Vivo Pharmacology, Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Kalstø SM, Siland JE, Rienstra M, Christophersen IE. Atrial Fibrillation Genetics Update: Toward Clinical Implementation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2019; 6:127. [PMID: 31552271 PMCID: PMC6743416 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2019.00127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common heart rhythm disorder worldwide and may have serious cardiovascular health consequences. AF is associated with increased risk of stroke, dementia, heart failure, and death. There are several known robust, clinical risk predictors for AF, such as male sex, increasing age, and hypertension; however, during the last couple of decades, a substantive genetic component has also been established. Over the last 10 years, the discovery of novel AF-related genetic variants has accelerated, increasing our understanding of mechanisms behind AF. Current studies are focusing on mapping the polygenic structure of AF, improving risk prediction, therapeutic development, and patient-specific management. Nevertheless, it is still difficult for clinicians to interpret the role of genetics in AF prediction and management. Here, we provide an overview of relevant topics within the genetics of AF and attempt to provide some guidance on how to interpret genetic advances and their implementation into clinical decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silje Madeleine Kalstø
- Department of Medical Research, Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Rud, Norway
| | - Joylene Elisabeth Siland
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Michiel Rienstra
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Ingrid E Christophersen
- Department of Medical Research, Bærum Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Rud, Norway.,The Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Lubberding AF, Sattler SM, Grunnet M, Sørensen US, Tfelt-Hansen J, Jespersen T. Arrhythmia development during inhibition of small-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels in acute myocardial infarction in a porcine model. Europace 2019; 21:1584-1593. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euz223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractAims Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is associated with intracellular Ca2+ build-up. In healthy ventricles, small conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (SK) channels are present but do not participate in repolarization. However, SK current is increased in chronic myocardial infarction and heart failure, and recently, SK channel inhibition was demonstrated to reduce arrhythmias in AMI rats. Hence, we hypothesized that SK channel inhibitors (NS8593 and AP14145) could reduce arrhythmia development during AMI in a porcine model.Methods and results Twenty-seven pigs were randomized 1:1:1 to control, NS8593, or AP14145. Haemodynamic and electrophysiological parameters [electrocardiogram (ECG) and monophasic action potentials (MAP)] were continuously recorded. A balloon was placed in the mid-left anterior descending artery, blinded to treatment. Infusion lasted from 10 min before occlusion until 30 min after. Occlusion was maintained for 1 h, followed by 2 h of reperfusion. Upon occlusion, cardiac output dropped similarly in all groups, while blood pressure remained stable. Heart rate decreased in the NS8593 and AP14145 groups. QRS duration increased upon occlusion in all groups but more prominently in AP14145-treated pigs. Inhibition of SK channels did not affect QT interval. Infarct MAP duration shortened comparably in all groups. Ventricular fibrillation developed in 4/9 control-, 4/9 AP14145-, and 2/9 NS8593-treated pigs. Ventricular tachycardia was rarely observed in either group, whereas ventricular extrasystoles occurred comparably in all groups.Conclusion Inhibition of SK channels was neither beneficial nor detrimental to ventricular arrhythmia development in the setting of AMI in this porcine model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anniek F Lubberding
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Norre Alle 14, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stefan M Sattler
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Medical Department I, University Hospital Grosshadern, LMU, Marchioninistraße 15, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Jacob Tfelt-Hansen
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederik V's Vej, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Jespersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Norre Alle 14, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Brown BM, Shim H, Christophersen P, Wulff H. Pharmacology of Small- and Intermediate-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels. Annu Rev Pharmacol Toxicol 2019; 60:219-240. [PMID: 31337271 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010919-023420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The three small-conductance calcium-activated potassium (KCa2) channels and the related intermediate-conductance KCa3.1 channel are voltage-independent K+ channels that mediate calcium-induced membrane hyperpolarization. When intracellular calcium increases in the channel vicinity, it calcifies the flexible N lobe of the channel-bound calmodulin, which then swings over to the S4-S5 linker and opens the channel. KCa2 and KCa3.1 channels are highly druggable and offer multiple binding sites for venom peptides and small-molecule blockers as well as for positive- and negative-gating modulators. In this review, we briefly summarize the physiological role of KCa channels and then discuss the pharmacophores and the mechanism of action of the most commonly used peptidic and small-molecule KCa2 and KCa3.1 modulators. Finally, we describe the progress that has been made in advancing KCa3.1 blockers and KCa2.2 negative- and positive-gating modulators toward the clinic for neurological and cardiovascular diseases and discuss the remaining challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon M Brown
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA;
| | - Heesung Shim
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA;
| | | | - Heike Wulff
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA;
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Kirchhoff JE, Skarsfeldt MA, Muthukumarasamy KM, Simó-Vicens R, Bomholtz SH, Abildgaard L, Jespersen T, Sørensen US, Grunnet M, Bentzen BH, Diness JG. The K Ca2 Channel Inhibitor AP14145, But Not Dofetilide or Ondansetron, Provides Functional Atrial Selectivity in Guinea Pig Hearts. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:668. [PMID: 31275147 PMCID: PMC6593233 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Prolongation of cardiac action potentials is considered antiarrhythmic in the atria but can be proarrhythmic in ventricles if the current carried by Kv11.1-channels (IKr) is inhibited. The current mediated by KCa2-channels, IKCa, is considered a promising new target for treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). Selective inhibitors of IKr (dofetilide) and IKCa (AP14145) were used to compare the effects on ventricular and atrial repolarization. Ondansetron, which has been reported to be a potent blocker of both IKr and IKCa, was included to examine its potential atrial antiarrhythmic properties. Experimental Approach: The expression of KCa2- and Kv11.1-channels in the guinea pig heart was investigated using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Whole-cell patch clamp technique was used to investigate the effects of dofetilide, AP14145, and ondansetron on IKCa and/or IKr. The effect of dofetilide, AP14145, and ondansetron on atrial and ventricular repolarization was investigated in isolated hearts. A novel atrial paced in vivo guinea pig model was further validated using AP14145 and dofetilide. Key Results: AP14145 increased the atrial effective refractory period (AERP) without prolonging the QT interval with Bazett's correction for heart rate (QTcB) both ex vivo and in vivo. In contrast, dofetilide increased QTcB and, to a lesser extent, AERP in isolated hearts and prolonged QTcB with no effects on AERP in the in vivo guinea pig model. Ondansetron did not inhibit IKCa, but did inhibit IKr in vitro. Ondansetron prolonged ventricular, but not atrial repolarization ex vivo. Conclusion and Implications: IKCa inhibition by AP14145 selectively increases atrial repolarization, whereas IKr inhibition by dofetilide and ondansetron increases ventricular repolarization to a larger extent than atrial repolarization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark Alexander Skarsfeldt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kalai Mangai Muthukumarasamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rafel Simó-Vicens
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sofia Hammami Bomholtz
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Thomas Jespersen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Bo Hjorth Bentzen
- Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Heijman J, Dobrev D. Inhibition of Small-Conductance Ca 2+-Activated K + Channels: The Long-Awaited Breakthrough for Antiarrhythmic Drug Therapy of Atrial Fibrillation? Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2019; 10:CIRCEP.117.005776. [PMID: 29018167 DOI: 10.1161/circep.117.005776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Heijman
- From the Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (J.H.); and Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, School of Medicine, University Duisburg-Essen, Germany (D.D.)
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- From the Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, The Netherlands (J.H.); and Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, School of Medicine, University Duisburg-Essen, Germany (D.D.).
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Shamsaldeen YA, Culliford L, Clout M, James AF, Ascione R, Hancox JC, Marrion NV. Role of SK channel activation in determining the action potential configuration in freshly isolated human atrial myocytes from the SKArF study. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2019; 512:684-690. [PMID: 30922569 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2019.03.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Inhibition of SK channel function is being pursued in animal models as a possible therapeutic approach to treat atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the pharmacology of SK channels in human atria is unclear. SK channel function is inhibited by both apamin and UCL1684, with the former discriminating between SK channel subtypes. In this proof-of-principle study, the effects of apamin and UCL1684 on right atrial myocytes freshly isolated from patients in sinus rhythm undergoing elective cardiac surgery were investigated. Outward current evoked from voltage clamped human atrial myocytes was reduced by these two inhibitors of SK channel function. In contrast, membrane current underlying the atrial action potential was affected significantly only by UCL1684 and not by apamin. This pharmacology mirrors that observed in mouse atria, suggesting that mammalian atria possess two populations of SK channels, with only one population contributing to the action potential waveform. Immuno-visualization of the subcellular localization of SK2 and SK3 subunits showed a high degree of colocalization, consistent with the formation of heteromeric SK2/SK3 channels. These data reveal that human atrial myocytes express two SK channel subtypes, one exhibiting an unusual pharmacology. These channels contribute to the atrial action potential waveform and might be a target for novel therapeutic approaches to treat supraventricular arrhythmic conditions such as atrial fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousif A Shamsaldeen
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Lucy Culliford
- Clinical Trials and Evaluation Unit, Bristol Trials Centre, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Madeleine Clout
- Clinical Trials and Evaluation Unit, Bristol Trials Centre, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Andrew F James
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Raimondo Ascione
- Translational Biomedical Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Jules C Hancox
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Neil V Marrion
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK.
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Simó-Vicens R, Bomholtz SH, Sørensen US, Bentzen BH. 2,6-Bis(2-Benzimidazolyl)Pyridine (BBP) Is a Potent and Selective Inhibitor of Small Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium (SK) Channels. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1409. [PMID: 30559671 PMCID: PMC6287599 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A variety of polycyclic pyridines have been proposed as inhibitors of the small conductance calcium-activated potassium (SK) channel. To this group belongs 2,6-bis(2-benzimidazolyl)pyridine (BBP), a commercially and readily available small organic compound which has earlier been described in a broad range of chemical and biological uses. Here, we show how BBP can also be used as a potent and specific SK channel blocker in vitro. The potency of BBP was measured using automatic patch clamp on all three SK channel subtypes, resulting in similar IC50 of 0.4 μM. We also assessed the selectivity of BBP on a panel of calcium-activated and voltage-activated potassium channels using two-electrode voltage clamp, automatic and manual patch clamp. BBP did not have any effect on IK, Kir2.1, Kir3.1+Kir3.4, Kv1.5, Kv4.3/KCHIP2 and Kv7.1/KCNE1 currents and was 4.8-fold and 46-fold more potent on all SK channel subtypes vs. BK and hERG channels, respectively. Moreover, we were able to identify H491 as a critical amino acid for the pharmacological effect of BBP on the SK channel. From a medicinal chemistry perspective, BBP could be used as a starting point for the design of new and improved SK inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafel Simó-Vicens
- Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sofia H Bomholtz
- Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Bo H Bentzen
- Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Acesion Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark
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