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Zafeiropoulos S, Ahmed U, Bikou A, Mughrabi IT, Stavrakis S, Zanos S. Vagus nerve stimulation for cardiovascular diseases: Is there light at the end of the tunnel? Trends Cardiovasc Med 2024; 34:327-337. [PMID: 37506989 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2023.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Autonomic dysfunction and chronic inflammation contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of several cardiovascular diseases (CVD), such as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, atherosclerotic CVD, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and atrial fibrillation. The vagus nerve provides parasympathetic innervation to the heart, vessels, and lungs, and is also implicated in the neural control of inflammation through a neuroimmune pathway involving the spleen. Stimulation of the vagus nerve (VNS) can in principle restore autonomic balance and suppress inflammation, with potential therapeutic benefits in these diseases. Although VNS ameliorated CVD in several animal models, early human studies have demonstrated variable efficacy. The purpose of this review is to discuss the rationale behind the use of VNS in the treatment of CVD, to critically review animal and human studies of VNS in CVD, and to propose possible means to overcome the challenges in the clinical translation of VNS in CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanos Zafeiropoulos
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine at Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA; Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Umair Ahmed
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Alexia Bikou
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Ibrahim T Mughrabi
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Stavros Stavrakis
- Heart Rhythm Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Stavros Zanos
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine at Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA; Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA.
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Nearing BD, Fialho GL, Waks JW, Maher TR, Clarke JR, Shepherd AJ, D'Avila A, Verrier RL. P-wave alternans rebound following pulmonary vein isolation predicts atrial arrhythmia recurrence. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2024; 35:1360-1367. [PMID: 38715310 DOI: 10.1111/jce.16291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Numerous P-wave indices have been explored as biomarkers to assess atrial fibrillation (AF) risk and the impact of therapy with variable success. OBJECTIVE We investigated the utility of P-wave alternans (PWA) to track the effects of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and to predict atrial arrhythmia recurrence. METHODS This medical records study included patients who underwent PVI for AF ablation at our institution, along with 20 control subjects without AF or overt cardiovascular disease. PWA was assessed using novel artificial intelligence-enabled modified moving average (AI-MMA) algorithms. PWA was monitored from the 12-lead ECG at ~1 h before and ~16 h after PVI (n = 45) and at the 4- to 17-week clinically indicated follow-up visit (n = 30). The arrhythmia follow-up period was 955 ± 112 days. RESULTS PVI acutely reduced PWA by 48%-63% (p < .05) to control ranges in leads II, III, aVF, the leads with the greatest sensitivity in monitoring PWA. Pre-ablation PWA was ~6 µV and decreased to ~3 µV following ablation. Patients who exhibited a rebound in PWA to pre-ablation levels at 4- to 17-week follow-up (p < .01) experienced recurrent atrial arrhythmias, whereas patients whose PWA remained reduced (p = .85) did not, resulting in a significant difference (p < .001) at follow-up. The AUC for PWA's prediction of first recurrence of atrial arrhythmia was 0.81 (p < .01) with 88% sensitivity and 82% specificity. Kaplan-Meier analysis estimated atrial arrhythmia-free survival (p < .01) with an adjusted hazard ratio of 3.4 (95% CI: 1.47-5.24, p < .02). CONCLUSION A rebound in PWA to pre-ablation levels detected by AI-MMA in the 12-lead ECG at standard clinical follow-up predicts atrial arrhythmia recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce D Nearing
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Jonathan W Waks
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Timothy R Maher
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - John-Ross Clarke
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alyssa J Shepherd
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andre D'Avila
- Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Richard L Verrier
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Tubeeckx MRL, De Keulenaer GW, Heidbuchel H, Segers VFM. Pathophysiology and clinical relevance of atrial myopathy. Basic Res Cardiol 2024; 119:215-242. [PMID: 38472506 DOI: 10.1007/s00395-024-01038-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Atrial myopathy is a condition that consists of electrical, structural, contractile, and autonomic remodeling of the atria and is the substrate for development of atrial fibrillation, the most common arrhythmia. Pathophysiologic mechanisms driving atrial myopathy are inflammation, oxidative stress, atrial stretch, and neurohormonal signals, e.g., angiotensin-II and aldosterone. These mechanisms initiate the structural and functional remodeling of the atrial myocardium. Novel therapeutic strategies are being developed that target the pathophysiologic mechanisms of atrial myopathy. In this review, we will discuss the pathophysiology of atrial myopathy, as well as diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiel R L Tubeeckx
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, Universiteitsplein 1, Building T (2nd Floor), 2610, Antwerp, Belgium.
| | - Gilles W De Keulenaer
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, Universiteitsplein 1, Building T (2nd Floor), 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, ZNA Middelheim Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Hein Heidbuchel
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, GENCOR, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Vincent F M Segers
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, Universiteitsplein 1, Building T (2nd Floor), 2610, Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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4
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Nearing BD, Verrier RL. Novel application of convolutional neural networks for artificial intelligence-enabled modified moving average analysis of P-, R-, and T-wave alternans for detection of risk for atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. J Electrocardiol 2024; 83:12-20. [PMID: 38185007 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2023.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND T-wave alternans (TWA) analysis was shown in >14,000 individuals studied worldwide over the past two decades to be a useful tool to assess risk for cardiovascular mortality and sudden arrhythmic death. TWA analysis by the modified moving average (MMA) method is FDA-cleared and CMS-reimbursed (CAG-00293R2). OBJECTIVE Because the MMA technique is inherently suitable for dynamic tracking of alternans levels, it was selected for development of artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled algorithms using convolutional neural networks (CNN) to achieve rapid, efficient, and accurate assessment of P-wave alternans (PWA), R-wave alternans (RWA), and TWA. METHODS The novel application of CNN algorithms to enhance MMA analysis generated efficient and powerful pattern-recognition algorithms for highly accurate alternans quantification. Algorithm reliability and accuracy were verified using simulated ECGs achieving R2 ≥ 0.99 (p < 0.01) in response to noise inputs and artifacts that emulate real-life conditions. RESULTS Accuracy of the new AI-MMA algorithms in TWA analysis (n = 5) was significantly improved over unsupervised, automated MMA output (p = 0.036) and did not differ from conventional MMA analysis with expert overreading (p = 0.21). Accuracy of AI-MMA in PWA analysis (n = 45) was significantly improved over unsupervised, automated MMA output (p < 0.005) and did not differ from conventional MMA analysis with expert overreading (p = 0.89). TWA and PWA by AI-MMA were correlated with conventional MMA output over-read by an expert reader (R2 = 0.7765, R2 = 0.9504, respectively). CONCLUSION This novel technique for AI-MMA analysis could be suitable for use in diverse in-hospital and out-of-hospital monitoring systems, including cardiac implantable electronic devices and smartwatches, for tracking atrial and ventricular arrhythmia risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce D Nearing
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard L Verrier
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Gerges ANH, Williams EER, Hillier S, Uy J, Hamilton T, Chamberlain S, Hordacre B. Clinical application of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation: a scoping review. Disabil Rehabil 2024:1-31. [PMID: 38362860 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2024.2313123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is an emerging non-invasive neuromodulation therapy. This study aimed to explore the therapeutic use of taVNS, optimal stimulation parameters, effective sham protocols, and safety. METHODS A scoping review was conducted. Five databases and grey literature were searched. The data extracted included stimulation parameters, adverse events (AEs), and therapeutic effects on clinical outcomes. RESULTS 109 studies were included. taVNS was used across 21 different clinical populations, most commonly in psychiatric, cardiac, and neurological disorders. Overall, 2,214 adults received active taVNS and 1,017 received sham taVNS. Reporting of stimulation parameters was limited and inconsistent. taVNS appeared to have a favourable therapeutic effect across a wide range of clinical populations with varied parameters. Three sham protocols were reported but their effectiveness was documented in only two of the 54 sham-controlled studies. Most reported adverse events were localised to stimulation site. CONCLUSION There is growing evidence for taVNS therapeutic effect. taVNS appears safe and tolerable. Sham protocols need evaluation. Standardised and comprehensive reporting of both stimulation parameters and adverse events is required. Two different questionnaires have been proposed to evaluate adverse events and the effectiveness of sham methods in blinding participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf N H Gerges
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation (IIMPACT) in Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Ellen E R Williams
- School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide, Australia
| | - Susan Hillier
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation (IIMPACT) in Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Jeric Uy
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation (IIMPACT) in Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Taya Hamilton
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, Australia
- Fourier Intelligence International Pte Ltd., Global Headquarters, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Saran Chamberlain
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation (IIMPACT) in Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Brenton Hordacre
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation (IIMPACT) in Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
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Giannino G, Braia V, Griffith Brookles C, Giacobbe F, D'Ascenzo F, Angelini F, Saglietto A, De Ferrari GM, Dusi V. The Intrinsic Cardiac Nervous System: From Pathophysiology to Therapeutic Implications. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:105. [PMID: 38392323 PMCID: PMC10887082 DOI: 10.3390/biology13020105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The cardiac autonomic nervous system (CANS) plays a pivotal role in cardiac homeostasis as well as in cardiac pathology. The first level of cardiac autonomic control, the intrinsic cardiac nervous system (ICNS), is located within the epicardial fat pads and is physically organized in ganglionated plexi (GPs). The ICNS system does not only contain parasympathetic cardiac efferent neurons, as long believed, but also afferent neurons and local circuit neurons. Thanks to its high degree of connectivity, combined with neuronal plasticity and memory capacity, the ICNS allows for a beat-to-beat control of all cardiac functions and responses as well as integration with extracardiac and higher centers for longer-term cardiovascular reflexes. The present review provides a detailed overview of the current knowledge of the bidirectional connection between the ICNS and the most studied cardiac pathologies/conditions (myocardial infarction, heart failure, arrhythmias and heart transplant) and the potential therapeutic implications. Indeed, GP modulation with efferent activity inhibition, differently achieved, has been studied for atrial fibrillation and functional bradyarrhythmias, while GP modulation with efferent activity stimulation has been evaluated for myocardial infarction, heart failure and ventricular arrhythmias. Electrical therapy has the unique potential to allow for both kinds of ICNS modulation while preserving the anatomical integrity of the system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Giannino
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Valentina Braia
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Carola Griffith Brookles
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Federico Giacobbe
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Fabrizio D'Ascenzo
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Filippo Angelini
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Andrea Saglietto
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Gaetano Maria De Ferrari
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Veronica Dusi
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
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Rast J, Sohinki D, Warner A. Non-invasive Neuromodulation of Arrhythmias. J Innov Card Rhythm Manag 2024; 15:5757-5766. [PMID: 38444451 PMCID: PMC10911637 DOI: 10.19102/icrm.2024.15022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Dysfunction of the cardiac autonomic nervous system (CANS) is associated with various cardiac arrhythmias. Subsequently, invasive techniques have successfully targeted the CANS for the treatment of certain arrhythmias, such as sympathetic denervation for ventricular tachycardia storm. Non-invasive strategies capable of modulating the CANS for arrhythmia treatment have begun to gain interest due to their low-risk profile and applicability as an adjuvant therapy. This review provides an evidence-based overview of the currently studied technologies capable of non-invasively modulating CANS for the suppression of atrial fibrillation and ventricular arrhythmias.
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8
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Bazoukis G, Stavrakis S, Armoundas AA. Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Inflammation in Cardiovascular Disease: A State-of-the-Art Review. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e030539. [PMID: 37721168 PMCID: PMC10727239 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.030539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been found to exert anti-inflammatory effects in different clinical settings and has been associated with improvement of clinical outcomes. However, evidence on the mechanistic link between the potential association of inflammatory status with clinical outcomes following VNS is scarce. This review aims to summarize the existing knowledge linking VNS with inflammation and its potential link with major outcomes in cardiovascular diseases, in both preclinical and clinical studies. Existing data show that in the setting of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion, VNS seems to reduce inflammation resulting in reduced infarct size and reduced incidence of ventricular arrhythmias during reperfusion. Furthermore, VNS has a protective role in vascular function following myocardial ischemia and reperfusion. Atrial fibrillation burden has also been reduced by VNS, whereas suppression of inflammation may be a potential mechanism for this effect. In the setting of heart failure, VNS was found to improve systolic function and reverse cardiac remodeling. In summary, existing experimental data show a reduction in inflammatory markers by VNS, which may cause improved clinical outcomes in cardiovascular diseases. However, more data are needed to evaluate the association between the inflammatory status with the clinical outcomes following VNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Bazoukis
- Department of CardiologyLarnaca General HospitalLarnacaCyprus
- Department of Basic and Clinical SciencesUniversity of Nicosia Medical SchoolNicosiaCyprus
| | - Stavros Stavrakis
- Heart Rhythm InstituteUniversity of Oklahoma Health Sciences CenterOklahoma CityOKUSA
| | - Antonis A. Armoundas
- Cardiovascular Research CenterMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA
- Broad Institute, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMAUSA
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Wu Z, Liao J, Liu Q, Zhou S, Chen M. Chronic vagus nerve stimulation in patients with heart failure: challenge or failed translation? Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1052471. [PMID: 37534273 PMCID: PMC10390725 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1052471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Autonomic imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems contributes to the progression of chronic heart failure (HF). Preclinical studies have demonstrated that various neuromodulation strategies may exert beneficial cardioprotective effects in preclinical models of HF. Based on these encouraging experimental data, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been assessed in patients with HF with a reduced ejection fraction. Nevertheless, the main trials conducted thus far have yielded conflicting findings, questioning the clinical efficacy of VNS in this context. This review will therefore focus on the role of the autonomic nervous system in HF pathophysiology and VNS therapy, highlighting the potential reasons behind the discrepancy between preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihong Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiaying Liao
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiming Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shenghua Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Mingxian Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
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10
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Saleeb-Mousa J, Nathanael D, Coney AM, Kalla M, Brain KL, Holmes AP. Mechanisms of Atrial Fibrillation in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. Cells 2023; 12:1661. [PMID: 37371131 DOI: 10.3390/cells12121661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a strong independent risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF). Emerging clinical data cite adverse effects of OSA on AF induction, maintenance, disease severity, and responsiveness to treatment. Prevention using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is effective in some groups but is limited by its poor compliance. Thus, an improved understanding of the underlying arrhythmogenic mechanisms will facilitate the development of novel therapies and/or better selection of those currently available to complement CPAP in alleviating the burden of AF in OSA. Arrhythmogenesis in OSA is a multifactorial process characterised by a combination of acute atrial stimulation on a background of chronic electrical, structural, and autonomic remodelling. Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), a key feature of OSA, is associated with long-term adaptive changes in myocyte ion channel currents, sensitising the atria to episodic bursts of autonomic reflex activity. CIH is also a potent driver of inflammatory and hypoxic stress, leading to fibrosis, connexin downregulation, and conduction slowing. Atrial stretch is brought about by negative thoracic pressure (NTP) swings during apnoea, promoting further chronic structural remodelling, as well as acutely dysregulating calcium handling and electrical function. Here, we provide an up-to-date review of these topical mechanistic insights and their roles in arrhythmia.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Saleeb-Mousa
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Demitris Nathanael
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Andrew M Coney
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Manish Kalla
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham B15 2GW, UK
| | - Keith L Brain
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Andrew P Holmes
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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11
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Soltani D, Stavrakis S. Neuromodulation for the Management of Atrial Fibrillation—How to Optimize Patient Selection and the Procedural Approach. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR RISK REPORTS 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12170-023-00718-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
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12
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Targeted Atrial Fibrillation Therapy and Risk Stratification Using Atrial Alternans. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2023; 10:jcdd10020036. [PMID: 36826532 PMCID: PMC9959422 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd10020036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most persistent arrhythmia today, with its prevalence increasing exponentially with the rising age of the population. Particularly at elevated heart rates, a functional abnormality known as cardiac alternans can occur prior to the onset of lethal arrhythmias. Cardiac alternans are a beat-to-beat oscillation of electrical activity and the force of cardiac muscle contraction. Extensive evidence has demonstrated that microvolt T-wave alternans can predict ventricular fibrillation vulnerability and the risk of sudden cardiac death. The majority of our knowledge of the mechanisms of alternans stems from studies of ventricular electrophysiology, although recent studies offer promising evidence of the potential of atrial alternans in predicting the risk of AF. Exciting preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated a link between atrial alternans and the onset of atrial tachyarrhythmias. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the clinical utility of atrial alternans in identifying the risk and guiding treatment of AF.
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Aksu T, Skeete JR, Huang HH. Ganglionic Plexus Ablation: A Step-by-step Guide for Electrophysiologists and Review of Modalities for Neuromodulation for the Management of Atrial Fibrillation. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev 2023; 12:e02. [PMID: 36845167 PMCID: PMC9945432 DOI: 10.15420/aer.2022.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As the most common sustained arrhythmia, AF is a complex clinical entity which remains a difficult condition to durably treat in the majority of patients. Over the past few decades, the management of AF has focused mainly on pulmonary vein triggers for its initiation and perpetuation. It is well known that the autonomic nervous system (ANS) has a significant role in the milieu predisposing to the triggers, perpetuators and substrate for AF. Neuromodulation of ANS - ganglionated plexus ablation, vein of Marshall ethanol infusion, transcutaneous tragal stimulation, renal nerve denervation, stellate ganglion block and baroreceptor stimulation - constitute an emerging therapeutic approach for AF. The purpose of this review is to summarise and critically appraise the currently available evidence for neuromodulation modalities in AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tolga Aksu
- Department of Cardiology, Yeditepe University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Henry H Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Rush Medical College, Chicago, IL, US
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14
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Mircea AA, Rusu M, Liehn EA, Bucur O. Promising Therapies for Atrial Fibrillation and Ventricular Tachycardia. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12612. [PMID: 36293490 PMCID: PMC9604396 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Sudden cardiac death due to arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, account for 15-20% of all deaths. Myocardial infarction increases the burden of atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia by structural and electrical remodeling of the heart. The current management of new-onset atrial fibrillation includes electric cardioversion with very high conversion rates and pharmacologic cardioversion, with less a than 50% conversion rate. If atrial fibrillation cannot be converted, the focus becomes the control of the symptoms ensuring a constant rhythm and rate control, without considering other contributory factors such as autonomic imbalance. Recently, a huge success was obtained by developing ablation techniques or addressing the vagal nerve stimulation. On the other hand, ventricular tachycardia is more sensitive to drug therapies. However, in cases of non-responsiveness to drugs, the usual therapeutic choice is represented by stereotactic ablative therapy or catheter ablation. This review focuses on these newly developed strategies for treatment of arrhythmias in clinical practice, specifically on vernakalant and low-level tragus stimulation for atrial fibrillation and stereotactic ablative therapy for drug-refractory ventricular tachycardia. These therapies are important for the significant improvement of the management of atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia, providing: (1) a safer profile than current therapies, (2) higher success rate than current solutions, (3) low cost of delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei Alexandru Mircea
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Rusu
- Department for Cardiology, Angiology and Internal Intensive Care, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, 5207 Aachen, Germany
| | - Elisa Anamaria Liehn
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, DK-5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Octavian Bucur
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
- Viron Molecular Medicine Institute, Boston, MA 02108, USA
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15
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Barthelemy JC, Pichot V, Hupin D, Berger M, Celle S, Mouhli L, Bäck M, Lacour JR, Roche F. Targeting autonomic nervous system as a biomarker of well-ageing in the prevention of stroke. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:969352. [PMID: 36185479 PMCID: PMC9521604 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.969352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stroke prediction is a key health issue for preventive medicine. Atrial fibrillation (AF) detection is well established and the importance of obstructive sleep apneas (OSA) has emerged in recent years. Although autonomic nervous system (ANS) appears strongly implicated in stroke occurrence, this factor is more rarely considered. However, the consequences of decreased parasympathetic activity explored in large cohort studies through measurement of ANS activity indicate that an ability to improve its activity level and equilibrium may prevent stroke. In support of these observations, a compensatory neurostimulation has already proved beneficial on endothelium function. The available data on stroke predictions from ANS is based on many long-term stroke cohorts. These data underline the need of repeated ANS evaluation for the general population, in a medical environment, and remotely by emerging telemedicine digital tools. This would help uncovering the reasons behind the ANS imbalance that would need to be medically adjusted to decrease the risk of stroke. This ANS unbalance help to draw attention on clinical or non-clinical evidence, disclosing the vascular risk, as ANS activity integrates the cumulated risk from many factors of which most are modifiable, such as metabolic inadaptation in diabetes and obesity, sleep ventilatory disorders, hypertension, inflammation, and lack of physical activity. Treating these factors may determine ANS recovery through the appropriate management of these conditions. Natural aging also decreases ANS activity. ANS recovery will decrease global circulating inflammation, which will reinforce endothelial function and thus protect the vessels and the associated organs. ANS is the whistle-blower of vascular risk and the actor of vascular health. Such as, ANS should be regularly checked to help draw attention on vascular risk and help follow the improvements in response to our interventions. While today prediction of stroke relies on classical cardiovascular risk factors, adding autonomic biomarkers as HRV parameters may significantly increase the prediction of stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Claude Barthelemy
- Physical Exercise and Clinical Physiology Department, CHU Nord, Saint-Étienne, France
- INSERM U1059 Santé Ingénierie Biologie, Université Jean Monnet, Saint-Étienne, France
- *Correspondence: Jean-Claude Barthelemy,
| | - Vincent Pichot
- Physical Exercise and Clinical Physiology Department, CHU Nord, Saint-Étienne, France
- INSERM U1059 Santé Ingénierie Biologie, Université Jean Monnet, Saint-Étienne, France
| | - David Hupin
- Physical Exercise and Clinical Physiology Department, CHU Nord, Saint-Étienne, France
- INSERM U1059 Santé Ingénierie Biologie, Université Jean Monnet, Saint-Étienne, France
- Section of Translational Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mathieu Berger
- Physical Exercise and Clinical Physiology Department, CHU Nord, Saint-Étienne, France
- INSERM U1059 Santé Ingénierie Biologie, Université Jean Monnet, Saint-Étienne, France
- Centre d’Investigation et de Recherche sur le Sommeil, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sébastien Celle
- Physical Exercise and Clinical Physiology Department, CHU Nord, Saint-Étienne, France
- INSERM U1059 Santé Ingénierie Biologie, Université Jean Monnet, Saint-Étienne, France
| | - Lytissia Mouhli
- Physical Exercise and Clinical Physiology Department, CHU Nord, Saint-Étienne, France
- Département de Neurologie, Hôpital Universitaire Nord, Saint-Étienne, France
| | - Magnus Bäck
- Section of Translational Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jean-René Lacour
- Laboratoire de Physiologie, Faculté de Médecine Lyon-Sud, Oullins, France
| | - Frederic Roche
- Physical Exercise and Clinical Physiology Department, CHU Nord, Saint-Étienne, France
- INSERM U1059 Santé Ingénierie Biologie, Université Jean Monnet, Saint-Étienne, France
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16
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Yokota H, Edama M, Hirabayashi R, Sekine C, Otsuru N, Saito K, Kojima S, Miyaguchi S, Onishi H. Effects of Stimulus Frequency, Intensity, and Sex on the Autonomic Response to Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12081038. [PMID: 36009101 PMCID: PMC9405815 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12081038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine how transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) alters autonomic nervous activity by comparing the effects of different tVNS frequencies and current intensities. We also investigated the sex-dependent autonomic response to tVNS. Thirty-five healthy adult participants were stimulated using a tVNS stimulator at the left cymba conchae while sitting on a reclining chair; tVNS-induced waveform changes were then recorded for different stimulus frequencies (Experiment 1: 3.0 mA at 100 Hz, 25 Hz, 10 Hz, 1 Hz, and 0 Hz (no stimulation)) and current intensities (Experiment 2: 100 Hz at 3.0 mA, 1.0 mA, 0.2 mA (below sensory threshold), and 0 mA (no stimulation)) using an electrocardiogram. Pulse widths were set at 250 µs in both experiment 1 and 2. Changes in heart rate (HR), root-mean-square of the difference between two successive R waves (RMSSD), and the ratio between low-frequency (LF) (0.04–0.15 Hz) and high-frequency (HF) (0.15–0.40 Hz) bands (LF/HF) in spectral analysis, which indicates sympathetic and parasympathetic activity, respectively, in heart rate variability (HRV), were recorded for analysis. Although stimulation at all frequencies significantly reduced HR (p = 0.001), stimulation at 100 Hz had the most pronounced effect (p = 0.001) in Experiment 1 and was revealed to be required to deliver at 3.0 mA in Experiment 2 (p = 0.003). Additionally, participants with higher baseline sympathetic activity experienced higher parasympathetic response during stimulation, and sex differences may exist in the autonomic responses by the application of tVNS. Therefore, our findings suggest that optimal autonomic changes induced by tVNS to the left cymba conchae vary depending on stimulating parameters and sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirotake Yokota
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
- Department of Physical Therapy, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-25-257-4723
| | - Mutsuaki Edama
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
- Department of Physical Therapy, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
| | - Ryo Hirabayashi
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
- Department of Physical Therapy, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
| | - Chie Sekine
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
- Department of Physical Therapy, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
| | - Naofumi Otsuru
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
- Department of Physical Therapy, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
| | - Kei Saito
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
- Department of Physical Therapy, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
| | - Sho Kojima
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
- Department of Physical Therapy, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
| | - Shota Miyaguchi
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
- Department of Physical Therapy, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
| | - Hideaki Onishi
- Institute for Human Movement and Medical Sciences, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
- Department of Physical Therapy, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, Niigata 950-3198, Japan
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Kulkarni K, Pallares-Lupon N, Armoundas AA, Pasdois P, Bernus O, Walton RD. Investigating Electrophysiological Markers of Arrhythmogenesis in a Chronic Myocardial Infarction Ovine Model. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2022; 2022:657-661. [PMID: 36086483 DOI: 10.1109/embc48229.2022.9871496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac alternans has been associated with an increased propensity to lethal tachyarrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation (VT/VF). Myocardial infarction (MI), resulting from restricted oxygen supply to the heart, is a known substrate for VT/VF. Here, we investigate the utility of cardiac alternans as a predictor of tachyarrhythmias in a chronic MI ovine model. In-vivo electrophysiological studies were performed to assess the change in microvolt T-wave alternans (TWA) with induction of acute ischemia following coronary artery occlusion. 24-hour telemetry was performed in an ambulatory animal for 6 weeks to monitor the progression of TWA with chronic MI. At 6 weeks, ex-vivo optical mapping experiments were performed to assess the spatiotemporal evolution of alternans in sham (n=5) and chronic MI hearts (n=8). Our results demonstrate that chronic MI leads to significant electrophysiological changes in the cardiac substrate. Significant increase in TWA is observed post occlusion and a steady rise in alternans is seen with progression of chronic MI. Compared to sham, chronic MI hearts show significant presence of localized action potential amplitude alternans, which spatially evolve with an increase in pacing frequency. Clinical Relevance - Our results demonstrate that localized alternans underlie arrhythmogenesis in chronic MI hearts and microvolt TWA can serve as a biomarker of disease progression during chronic MI.
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Patel MH, Sampath S, Kapoor A, Damani DN, Chellapuram N, Challa AB, Kaur MP, Walton RD, Stavrakis S, Arunachalam SP, Kulkarni K. Advances in Cardiac Pacing: Arrhythmia Prediction, Prevention and Control Strategies. Front Physiol 2021; 12:783241. [PMID: 34925071 PMCID: PMC8674736 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.783241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias constitute a tremendous burden on healthcare and are the leading cause of mortality worldwide. An alarming number of people have been reported to manifest sudden cardiac death as the first symptom of cardiac arrhythmias, accounting for about 20% of all deaths annually. Furthermore, patients prone to atrial tachyarrhythmias such as atrial flutter and fibrillation often have associated comorbidities including hypertension, ischemic heart disease, valvular cardiomyopathy and increased risk of stroke. Technological advances in electrical stimulation and sensing modalities have led to the proliferation of medical devices including pacemakers and implantable defibrillators, aiming to restore normal cardiac rhythm. However, given the complex spatiotemporal dynamics and non-linearity of the human heart, predicting the onset of arrhythmias and preventing the transition from steady state to unstable rhythms has been an extremely challenging task. Defibrillatory shocks still remain the primary clinical intervention for lethal ventricular arrhythmias, yet patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators often suffer from inappropriate shocks due to false positives and reduced quality of life. Here, we aim to present a comprehensive review of the current advances in cardiac arrhythmia prediction, prevention and control strategies. We provide an overview of traditional clinical arrhythmia management methods and describe promising potential pacing techniques for predicting the onset of abnormal rhythms and effectively suppressing cardiac arrhythmias. We also offer a clinical perspective on bridging the gap between basic and clinical science that would aid in the assimilation of promising anti-arrhythmic pacing strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrie Harshad Patel
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Shrikanth Sampath
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Anoushka Kapoor
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | | | - Nikitha Chellapuram
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | | | - Manmeet Pal Kaur
- Department of Medicine, GAIL, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Richard D. Walton
- IHU LIRYC, Electrophysiology and Heart Modeling Institute, Fondation Bordeaux Université, Bordeaux, France
- Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Stavros Stavrakis
- Heart Rhythm Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Shivaram P. Arunachalam
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
- Department of Medicine, GAIL, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Kanchan Kulkarni
- IHU LIRYC, Electrophysiology and Heart Modeling Institute, Fondation Bordeaux Université, Bordeaux, France
- Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- INSERM, Centre de Recherche Cardio-Thoracique de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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19
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Identifying Atrial Fibrillation Mechanisms for Personalized Medicine. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10235679. [PMID: 34884381 PMCID: PMC8658178 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10235679] [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: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a major cause of heart failure and stroke. The early maintenance of sinus rhythm has been shown to reduce major cardiovascular endpoints, yet is difficult to achieve. For instance, it is unclear how discoveries at the genetic and cellular level can be used to tailor pharmacotherapy. For non-pharmacologic therapy, pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) remains the cornerstone of rhythm control, yet has suboptimal success. Improving these therapies will likely require a multifaceted approach that personalizes therapy based on mechanisms measured in individuals across biological scales. We review AF mechanisms from cell-to-organ-to-patient from this perspective of personalized medicine, linking them to potential clinical indices and biomarkers, and discuss how these data could influence therapy. We conclude by describing approaches to improve ablation, including the emergence of several mapping systems that are in use today.
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20
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Kulkarni K, Stavrakis S, Elkholey K, Singh JP, Parks KA, Armoundas AA. Microvolt T-Wave Alternans Is Modulated by Acute Low-Level Tragus Stimulation in Patients With Ischemic Cardiomyopathy and Heart Failure. Front Physiol 2021; 12:707724. [PMID: 34366894 PMCID: PMC8343129 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.707724] [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: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: Microvolt T-wave alternans (TWA), an oscillation in T-wave morphology of the electrocardiogram (ECG), has been associated with increased susceptibility to ventricular tachy-arrhythmias, while vagus nerve stimulation has shown promising anti-arrhythmic effects in in vivo and ex vivo animal studies. We aimed to examine the effect of non-invasive, acute low-level tragus stimulation (LLTS) on TWA in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy and heart failure. Methods: 26 patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy (left ventricular ejection fraction <35%) and chronic stable heart failure, previously implanted with an automatic implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) device with an atrial lead (dual chamber ICD or cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator), were enrolled in the study. Each patient sequentially received, (1) Sham LLTS (electrode on tragus, but no stimulation delivered) for 5 min; (2) Active LLTS at two different frequencies (5 and 20 Hz, 15 min each); and (3) Active LLTS, during concomitant atrial pacing at 100 bpm at two different frequencies (5 and 20 Hz, 15 min each). LLTS was delivered through a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device (pulse width 200 μs, frequency 5/20 Hz, amplitude 1 mA lower than the discomfort threshold). TWA burden was assessed using continuous ECG monitoring during sham and active LLTS in sinus rhythm, as well as during atrial pacing. Results: Right atrial pacing at 100 bpm led to significantly heightened TWA burden compared to sinus rhythm, with or without LLTS. Acute LLTS at both 5 and 20 Hz, during sinus rhythm led to a significant rise in TWA burden in the precordial leads (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Acute LLTS results in a heart-rate dependent increase in TWA burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Kulkarni
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Stavros Stavrakis
- Heart Rhythm Institute, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Khaled Elkholey
- Heart Rhythm Institute, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Jagmeet P Singh
- Cardiology Division, Cardiac Arrhythmia Service, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kimberly A Parks
- Cardiology Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Antonis A Armoundas
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
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