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Ricci E, Bartolucci C, Severi S. The virtual sinoatrial node: What did computational models tell us about cardiac pacemaking? PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 177:55-79. [PMID: 36374743 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2022.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Since its discovery, the sinoatrial node (SAN) has represented a fascinating and complex matter of research. Despite over a century of discoveries, a full comprehension of pacemaking has still to be achieved. Experiments often produced conflicting evidence that was used either in support or against alternative theories, originating intense debates. In this context, mathematical descriptions of the phenomena underlying the heartbeat have grown in importance in the last decades since they helped in gaining insights where experimental evaluation could not reach. This review presents the most updated SAN computational models and discusses their contribution to our understanding of cardiac pacemaking. Electrophysiological, structural and pathological aspects - as well as the autonomic control over the SAN - are taken into consideration to reach a holistic view of SAN activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Ricci
- Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering "Guglielmo Marconi", University of Bologna, Cesena (FC), Italy
| | - Chiara Bartolucci
- Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering "Guglielmo Marconi", University of Bologna, Cesena (FC), Italy
| | - Stefano Severi
- Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering "Guglielmo Marconi", University of Bologna, Cesena (FC), Italy.
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Schroder EA, Wayland JL, Samuels KM, Shah SF, Burgess DE, Seward T, Elayi CS, Esser KA, Delisle BP. Cardiomyocyte Deletion of Bmal1 Exacerbates QT- and RR-Interval Prolongation in Scn5a +/ΔKPQ Mice. Front Physiol 2021; 12:681011. [PMID: 34248669 PMCID: PMC8265216 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.681011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Circadian rhythms are generated by cell autonomous circadian clocks that perform a ubiquitous cellular time-keeping function and cell type-specific functions important for normal physiology. Studies show inducing the deletion of the core circadian clock transcription factor Bmal1 in adult mouse cardiomyocytes disrupts cardiac circadian clock function, cardiac ion channel expression, slows heart rate, and prolongs the QT-interval at slow heart rates. This study determined how inducing the deletion of Bmal1 in adult cardiomyocytes impacted the in vivo electrophysiological phenotype of a knock-in mouse model for the arrhythmogenic long QT syndrome (Scn5a+/ΔKPQ). Electrocardiographic telemetry showed inducing the deletion of Bmal1 in the cardiomyocytes of mice with or without the ΔKPQ-Scn5a mutation increased the QT-interval at RR-intervals that were ≥130 ms. Inducing the deletion of Bmal1 in the cardiomyocytes of mice with or without the ΔKPQ-Scn5a mutation also increased the day/night rhythm-adjusted mean in the RR-interval, but it did not change the period, phase or amplitude. Compared to mice without the ΔKPQ-Scn5a mutation, mice with the ΔKPQ-Scn5a mutation had reduced heart rate variability (HRV) during the peak of the day/night rhythm in the RR-interval. Inducing the deletion of Bmal1 in cardiomyocytes did not affect HRV in mice without the ΔKPQ-Scn5a mutation, but it did increase HRV in mice with the ΔKPQ-Scn5a mutation. The data demonstrate that deleting Bmal1 in cardiomyocytes exacerbates QT- and RR-interval prolongation in mice with the ΔKPQ-Scn5a mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Schroder
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States.,Internal Medicine and Pulmonary, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Jennifer L Wayland
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Kaitlyn M Samuels
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Syed F Shah
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Don E Burgess
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Tanya Seward
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | | | - Karyn A Esser
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Brian P Delisle
- Department of Physiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
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Impaired Right Ventricular Calcium Cycling Is an Early Risk Factor in R14del-Phospholamban Arrhythmias. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11060502. [PMID: 34204946 PMCID: PMC8226909 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11060502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The inherited mutation (R14del) in the calcium regulatory protein phospholamban (PLN) is linked to malignant ventricular arrhythmia with poor prognosis starting at adolescence. However, the underlying early mechanisms that may serve as prognostic factors remain elusive. This study generated humanized mice in which the endogenous gene was replaced with either human wild type or R14del-PLN and addressed the early molecular and cellular pathogenic mechanisms. R14del-PLN mice exhibited stress-induced impairment of atrioventricular conduction, and prolongation of both ventricular activation and repolarization times in association with ventricular tachyarrhythmia, originating from the right ventricle (RV). Most of these distinct electrocardiographic features were remarkably similar to those in R14del-PLN patients. Studies in isolated cardiomyocytes revealed RV-specific calcium defects, including prolonged action potential duration, depressed calcium kinetics and contractile parameters, and elevated diastolic Ca-levels. Ca-sparks were also higher although SR Ca-load was reduced. Accordingly, stress conditions induced after contractions, and inclusion of the CaMKII inhibitor KN93 reversed this proarrhythmic parameter. Compensatory responses included altered expression of key genes associated with Ca-cycling. These data suggest that R14del-PLN cardiomyopathy originates with RV-specific impairment of Ca-cycling and point to the urgent need to improve risk stratification in asymptomatic carriers to prevent fatal arrhythmias and delay cardiomyopathy onset.
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Gao J, Yuan G, Xu Z, Lan L, Xin W. Chenodeoxycholic and deoxycholic acids induced positive inotropic and negative chronotropic effects on rat heart. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2021; 394:765-773. [PMID: 32808070 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-020-01962-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Bile acids are endogenous amphiphilic steroids from the metabolites of cholesterol. Studies showed that they might contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiopathy in cholestatic liver diseases. Chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and deoxycholic acid (DCA) is associated with colon cancer, gallstones, and gastrointestinal disorders. However, little information is available regarding their cardiac effects. Here, we reported that CDCA (100 μM) and DCA (100 μM) significantly increased the left ventricular developed pressure of the isolated rat hearts to 122.3 ± 5.6% and 145.1 ± 13.7%, and the maximal rate of the pressure development rising and descending (± dP/dtmax) to 103.4 ± 17.6% and 124.4 ± 37.7% of the basal levels, respectively. They decreased the heart rate and prolonged the RR, QRS, and QT intervals of Langendorff-perfused hearts in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, CDCA and DCA increased the developed tension of left ventricular muscle and the cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations in left ventricular myocytes; these functions positively coordinated with their inotropic effects on hearts. Additionally, CDCA (150 μM) and DCA (100 μM) decreased the sinoatrial node beating rate to 80.6 ± 3.0% and 79.7 ± 0.9% of the basal rate (334.2 ± 10.7 bpm), respectively. These results were consistent with their chronotropic effects. In conclusion, CDCA and DCA induced positive inotropic effects by elevating the Ca2+ in left ventricular myocytes. They exerted negative chronotropic effects by lowering the pace of the sinoatrial node in rat heart. These results indicated that the potential role of bile acids in cardiopathy related to cholestasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Gao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, 2 Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Guanyin Yuan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, 2 Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Zhan Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, 2 Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Luyao Lan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, 2 Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Wenkuan Xin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Chinese Medicine, Southwest University, 2 Tiansheng Road, Beibei, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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Yuan G, Jing Y, Wang T, Fernandes VS, Xin W. The bitter taste receptor agonist-induced negative chronotropic effects on the Langendorff-perfused isolated rat hearts. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 876:173063. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Ragab AAY, Sitorus GDS, Brundel BBJJM, de Groot NMS. The Genetic Puzzle of Familial Atrial Fibrillation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2020; 7:14. [PMID: 32118049 PMCID: PMC7033574 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2020.00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common clinical tachyarrhythmia. In Europe, AF is expected to reach a prevalence of 18 million by 2060. This estimate will increase hospitalization for AF to 4 million and 120 million outpatient visits. Besides being an independent risk factor for mortality, AF is also associated with an increased risk of morbidities. Although there are many well-defined risk factors for developing AF, no identifiable risk factors or cardiac pathology is seen in up to 30% of the cases. The heritability of AF has been investigated in depth since the first report of familial atrial fibrillation (FAF) in 1936. Despite the limited value of animal models, the advances in molecular genetics enabled identification of many common and rare variants related to FAF. The importance of AF heritability originates from the high prevalence of lone AF and the lack of clear understanding of the underlying pathophysiology. A better understanding of FAF will facilitate early identification of people at high risk of developing FAF and subsequent development of more effective management options. In this review, we reviewed FAF epidemiological studies, identified common and rare variants, and discussed their clinical implications and contributions to developing new personalized therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A Y Ragab
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Gustaf D S Sitorus
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Bianca B J J M Brundel
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Cardiovascular Research, VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Natasja M S de Groot
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Abstract
A progressive decline in maximum heart rate (mHR) is a fundamental aspect of aging in humans and other mammals. This decrease in mHR is independent of gender, fitness, and lifestyle, affecting in equal measure women and men, athletes and couch potatoes, spinach eaters and fast food enthusiasts. Importantly, the decline in mHR is the major determinant of the age-dependent decline in aerobic capacity that ultimately limits functional independence for many older individuals. The gradual reduction in mHR with age reflects a slowing of the intrinsic pacemaker activity of the sinoatrial node of the heart, which results from electrical remodeling of individual pacemaker cells along with structural remodeling and a blunted β-adrenergic response. In this review, we summarize current evidence about the tissue, cellular, and molecular mechanisms that underlie the reduction in pacemaker activity with age and highlight key areas for future work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin H Peters
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA; , ,
| | - Emily J Sharpe
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA; , ,
| | - Catherine Proenza
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA; , ,
- Department of Cardiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
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Wen Q, Gandhi K, Capel RA, Hao G, O'Shea C, Neagu G, Pearcey S, Pavlovic D, Terrar DA, Wu J, Faggian G, Camelliti P, Lei M. Transverse cardiac slicing and optical imaging for analysis of transmural gradients in membrane potential and Ca 2+ transients in murine heart. J Physiol 2018; 596:3951-3965. [PMID: 29928770 PMCID: PMC6117587 DOI: 10.1113/jp276239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Key points A robust cardiac slicing approach was developed for optical mapping of transmural gradients in transmembrane potential (Vm) and intracellular Ca2+ transient (CaT) of murine heart. Significant transmural gradients in Vm and CaT were observed in the left ventricle. Frequency‐dependent action potentials and CaT alternans were observed in all ventricular regions with rapid pacing, with significantly greater incidence in the endocardium than epicardium. The observations demonstrate the feasibility of our new approach to cardiac slicing for systematic analysis of intrinsic transmural and regional gradients in Vm and CaT.
Abstract Transmural and regional gradients in membrane potential and Ca2+ transient in the murine heart are largely unexplored. Here, we developed and validated a robust approach which combines transverse ultra‐thin cardiac slices and high resolution optical mapping to enable systematic analysis of transmural and regional gradients in transmembrane potential (Vm) and intracellular Ca2+ transient (CaT) across the entire murine ventricles. The voltage dye RH237 or Ca2+ dye Rhod‐2 AM were loaded through the coronary circulation using a Langendorff perfusion system. Short‐axis slices (300 μm thick) were prepared from the entire ventricles (from the apex to the base) by using a high‐precision vibratome. Action potentials (APs) and CaTs were recorded with optical mapping during steady‐state baseline and rapid pacing. Significant transmural gradients in Vm and CaT were observed in the left ventricle, with longer AP duration (APD50 and APD75) and CaT duration (CaTD50 and CaTD75) in the endocardium compared with that in the epicardium. No significant regional gradients were observed along the apico‐basal axis of the left ventricle. Interventricular gradients were detected with significantly shorter APD50, APD75 and CaTD50 in the right ventricle compared with left ventricle and ventricular septum. During rapid pacing, AP and CaT alternans were observed in most ventricular regions, with significantly greater incidence in the endocardium in comparison with epicardium. In conclusion, these observations demonstrate the feasibility of our new approach to cardiac slicing for systematic analysis of intrinsic transmural and regional gradients in Vm and CaT in murine ventricular tissue. A robust cardiac slicing approach was developed for optical mapping of transmural gradients in transmembrane potential (Vm) and intracellular Ca2+ transient (CaT) of murine heart. Significant transmural gradients in Vm and CaT were observed in the left ventricle. Frequency‐dependent action potentials and CaT alternans were observed in all ventricular regions with rapid pacing, with significantly greater incidence in the endocardium than epicardium. The observations demonstrate the feasibility of our new approach to cardiac slicing for systematic analysis of intrinsic transmural and regional gradients in Vm and CaT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Wen
- Institution of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - K Gandhi
- Medical School, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Rebecca A Capel
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - G Hao
- Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease/Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 6400, China
| | - C O'Shea
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - G Neagu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - S Pearcey
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - D Pavlovic
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Derek A Terrar
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - J Wu
- Institution of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - G Faggian
- Medical School, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - M Lei
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease/Institute of Cardiovascular Research, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 6400, China
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Ahmad S, Valli H, Chadda KR, Cranley J, Jeevaratnam K, Huang CLH. Ventricular pro-arrhythmic phenotype, arrhythmic substrate, ageing and mitochondrial dysfunction in peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-γ coactivator-1β deficient (Pgc-1β -/-) murine hearts. Mech Ageing Dev 2018; 173:92-103. [PMID: 29763629 PMCID: PMC6004599 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2018.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ageing and age-related bioenergetic conditions including obesity, diabetes mellitus and heart failure constitute clinical ventricular arrhythmic risk factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Pro-arrhythmic properties in electrocardiographic and intracellular recordings were compared in young and aged, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1β knockout (Pgc-1β-/-) and wild type (WT), Langendorff-perfused murine hearts, during regular and programmed stimulation (PES), comparing results by two-way ANOVA. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Young and aged Pgc-1β-/- showed higher frequencies and durations of arrhythmic episodes through wider PES coupling-interval ranges than WT. Both young and old, regularly-paced, Pgc-1β-/- hearts showed slowed maximum action potential (AP) upstrokes, (dV/dt)max (∼157 vs. 120-130 V s-1), prolonged AP latencies (by ∼20%) and shortened refractory periods (∼58 vs. 51 ms) but similar AP durations (∼50 ms at 90% recovery) compared to WT. However, Pgc-1β-/- genotype and age each influenced extrasystolic AP latencies during PES. Young and aged WT ventricles displayed distinct, but Pgc-1β-/- ventricles displayed similar dependences of AP latency upon (dV/dt)max resembling aged WT. They also independently increased myocardial fibrosis. AP wavelengths combining activation and recovery terms paralleled contrasting arrhythmic incidences in Pgc-1β-/- and WT hearts. Mitochondrial dysfunction thus causes pro-arrhythmic Pgc-1β-/- phenotypes by altering AP conduction through reducing (dV/dt)max and causing age-dependent fibrotic change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiraz Ahmad
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, United Kingdom
| | - Haseeb Valli
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, United Kingdom
| | - Karan R Chadda
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, United Kingdom; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, GU2 7AL, Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - James Cranley
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, United Kingdom
| | - Kamalan Jeevaratnam
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, GU2 7AL, Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom; PU-RCSI School of Medicine, Perdana University, 43400, Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Christopher L-H Huang
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, United Kingdom; Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QW, United Kingdom.
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Salvage SC, Chandrasekharan KH, Jeevaratnam K, Dulhunty AF, Thompson AJ, Jackson AP, Huang CL. Multiple targets for flecainide action: implications for cardiac arrhythmogenesis. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:1260-1278. [PMID: 28369767 PMCID: PMC5866987 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Revised: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Flecainide suppresses cardiac tachyarrhythmias including paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia and arrhythmic long QT syndromes (LQTS), as well as the Ca2+ -mediated, catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT). However, flecainide can also exert pro-arrhythmic effects most notably following myocardial infarction and when used to diagnose Brugada syndrome (BrS). These divergent actions result from its physiological and pharmacological actions at multiple, interacting levels of cellular organization. These were studied in murine genetic models with modified Nav channel or intracellular ryanodine receptor (RyR2)-Ca2+ channel function. Flecainide accesses its transmembrane Nav 1.5 channel binding site during activated, open, states producing a use-dependent antagonism. Closing either activation or inactivation gates traps flecainide within the pore. An early peak INa related to activation of Nav channels followed by rapid de-activation, drives action potential (AP) upstrokes and their propagation. This is diminished in pro-arrhythmic conditions reflecting loss of function of Nav 1.5 channels, such as BrS, accordingly exacerbated by flecainide challenge. Contrastingly, pro-arrhythmic effects attributed to prolonged AP recovery by abnormal late INaL following gain-of-function modifications of Nav 1.5 channels in LQTS3 are reduced by flecainide. Anti-arrhythmic effects of flecainide that reduce triggering in CPVT models mediated by sarcoplasmic reticular Ca2+ release could arise from its primary actions on Nav channels indirectly decreasing [Ca2+ ]i through a reduced [Na+ ]i and/or direct open-state RyR2-Ca2+ channel antagonism. The consequent [Ca2+ ]i alterations could also modify AP propagation velocity and therefore arrhythmic substrate through its actions on Nav 1.5 channel function. This is consistent with the paradoxical differences between flecainide actions upon Na+ currents, AP conduction and arrhythmogenesis under circumstances of normal and increased RyR2 function. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Spotlight on Small Molecules in Cardiovascular Diseases. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.8/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha C Salvage
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- Physiological LaboratoryUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | | | - Kamalan Jeevaratnam
- Faculty of Health and Medical SciencesUniversity of SurreyGuildfordUK
- School of MedicinePerdana University – Royal College of Surgeons IrelandSerdangSelangor Darul EhsanMalaysia
| | - Angela F Dulhunty
- Muscle Research Group, Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical ResearchAustralian National UniversityActonAustralia
| | | | | | - Christopher L‐H Huang
- Department of BiochemistryUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- Physiological LaboratoryUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
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Sinus Bradycardia in Carriers of the SCN5A-1795insD Mutation: Unraveling the Mechanism through Computer Simulations. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19020634. [PMID: 29473904 PMCID: PMC5855856 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19020634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The SCN5A gene encodes the pore-forming α-subunit of the ion channel that carries the cardiac fast sodium current (INa). The 1795insD mutation in SCN5A causes sinus bradycardia, with a mean heart rate of 70 beats/min in mutation carriers vs. 77 beats/min in non-carriers from the same family (lowest heart rate 41 vs. 47 beats/min). To unravel the underlying mechanism, we incorporated the mutation-induced changes in INa into a recently developed comprehensive computational model of a single human sinoatrial node cell (Fabbri–Severi model). The 1795insD mutation reduced the beating rate of the model cell from 74 to 69 beats/min (from 49 to 43 beats/min in the simulated presence of 20 nmol/L acetylcholine). The mutation-induced persistent INa per se resulted in a substantial increase in beating rate. This gain-of-function effect was almost completely counteracted by the loss-of-function effect of the reduction in INa conductance. The further loss-of-function effect of the shifts in steady-state activation and inactivation resulted in an overall loss-of-function effect of the 1795insD mutation. We conclude that the experimentally identified mutation-induced changes in INa can explain the clinically observed sinus bradycardia. Furthermore, we conclude that the Fabbri–Severi model may prove a useful tool in understanding cardiac pacemaker activity in humans.
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Ahmad S, Valli H, Salvage SC, Grace AA, Jeevaratnam K, Huang CLH. Age-dependent electrocardiographic changes in Pgc-1β deficient murine hearts. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2017; 45:174-186. [PMID: 28949414 PMCID: PMC5814877 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.12863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Increasing evidence implicates chronic energetic dysfunction in human cardiac arrhythmias. Mitochondrial impairment through Pgc-1β knockout is known to produce a murine arrhythmic phenotype. However, the cumulative effect of this with advancing age and its electrocardiographic basis have not been previously studied. Young (12-16 weeks) and aged (>52 weeks), wild type (WT) (n = 5 and 8) and Pgc-1β-/- (n = 9 and 6), mice were anaesthetised and used for electrocardiographic (ECG) recordings. Time intervals separating successive ECG deflections were analysed for differences between groups before and after β1-adrenergic (intraperitoneal dobutamine 3 mg/kg) challenge. Heart rates before dobutamine challenge were indistinguishable between groups. The Pgc-1β-/- genotype however displayed compromised nodal function in response to adrenergic challenge. This manifested as an impaired heart rate response suggesting a functional defect at the level of the sino-atrial node, and a negative dromotropic response suggesting an atrioventricular conduction defect. Incidences of the latter were most pronounced in the aged Pgc-1β-/- mice. Moreover, Pgc-1β-/- mice displayed electrocardiographic features consistent with the existence of a pro-arrhythmic substrate. Firstly, ventricular activation was prolonged in these mice consistent with slowed action potential conduction and is reported here for the first time. Additionally, Pgc-1β-/- mice had shorter repolarisation intervals. These were likely attributable to altered K+ conductance properties, ultimately resulting in a shortened QTc interval, which is also known to be associated with increased arrhythmic risk. ECG analysis thus yielded electrophysiological findings bearing on potential arrhythmogenicity in intact Pgc-1β-/- systems in widespread cardiac regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiraz Ahmad
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Haseeb Valli
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Samantha C Salvage
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew A Grace
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Kamalan Jeevaratnam
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom.,PU-RCSI School of Medicine, Perdana University, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Christopher L-H Huang
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Jeevaratnam K, Chadda KR, Salvage SC, Valli H, Ahmad S, Grace AA, Huang CLH. Ion channels, long QT syndrome and arrhythmogenesis in ageing. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2017; 44 Suppl 1:38-45. [PMID: 28024120 PMCID: PMC5763326 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.12721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Revised: 12/18/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Ageing is associated with increased prevalences of both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, reflecting disruption of the normal sequence of ion channel activation and inactivation generating the propagated cardiac action potential. Experimental models with specific ion channel genetic modifications have helped clarify the interacting functional roles of ion channels and how their dysregulation contributes to arrhythmogenic processes at the cellular and systems level. They have also investigated interactions between these ion channel abnormalities and age-related processes in producing arrhythmic tendency. Previous reviews have explored the relationships between age and loss-of-function Nav 1.5 mutations in producing arrhythmogenicity. The present review now explores complementary relationships arising from gain-of-function Nav 1.5 mutations associated with long QT3 (LQTS3). LQTS3 patients show increased risks of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, particularly after 40 years of age, consistent with such interactions between the ion channel abnormailities and ageing. In turn clinical evidence suggests that ageing is accompanied by structural, particularly fibrotic, as well as electrophysiological change. These abnormalities may result from biochemical changes producing low-grade inflammation resulting from increased production of reactive oxygen species and superoxide. Experimental studies offer further insights into the underlying mechanisms underlying these phenotypes. Thus, studies in genetically modified murine models for LQTS implicated action potential recovery processes in arrhythmogenesis resulting from functional ion channel abnormalities. In addition, ageing wild type (WT) murine models demonstrated both ion channel alterations and fibrotic changes with ageing. Murine models then suggested evidence for interactions between ageing and ion channel mutations and provided insights into potential arrhythmic mechanisms inviting future exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamalan Jeevaratnam
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.,School of Medicine, Perdana University-Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Karan R Chadda
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.,Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Haseeb Valli
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Shiraz Ahmad
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Andrew A Grace
- Division of Cardiovascular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Christopher L-H Huang
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Division of Cardiovascular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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The effects of ageing and adrenergic challenge on electrocardiographic phenotypes in a murine model of long QT syndrome type 3. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11070. [PMID: 28894151 PMCID: PMC5593918 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-11210-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Long QT Syndrome 3 (LQTS3) arises from gain-of-function Nav1.5 mutations, prolonging action potential repolarisation and electrocardiographic (ECG) QT interval, associated with increased age-dependent risk for major arrhythmic events, and paradoxical responses to β-adrenergic agents. We investigated for independent and interacting effects of age and Scn5a+/ΔKPQ genotype in anaesthetised mice modelling LQTS3 on ECG phenotypes before and following β-agonist challenge, and upon fibrotic change. Prolonged ventricular recovery was independently associated with Scn5a+/ΔKPQ and age. Ventricular activation was prolonged in old Scn5a+/ΔKPQ mice (p = 0.03). We associated Scn5a+/ΔKPQ with increased atrial and ventricular fibrosis (both: p < 0.001). Ventricles also showed increased fibrosis with age (p < 0.001). Age and Scn5a+/ΔKPQ interacted in increasing incidences of repolarisation alternans (p = 0.02). Dobutamine increased ventricular rate (p < 0.001) and reduced both atrioventricular conduction (PR segment-p = 0.02; PR interval-p = 0.02) and incidences of repolarisation alternans (p < 0.001) in all mice. However, in Scn5a+/ΔKPQ mice, dobutamine delayed the changes in ventricular repolarisation following corresponding increases in ventricular rate. The present findings implicate interactions between age and Scn5a+/ΔKPQ in prolonging ventricular activation, correlating them with fibrotic change for the first time, adding activation abnormalities to established recovery abnormalities in LQTS3. These findings, together with dynamic electrophysiological responses to β-adrenergic challenge, have therapeutic implications for ageing LQTS patients.
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15
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Chang SL, Chuang HL, Chen YC, Kao YH, Lin YK, Yeh YH, Chen SA, Chen YJ. Heart failure modulates electropharmacological characteristics of sinoatrial nodes. Exp Ther Med 2017; 13:771-779. [PMID: 28352365 PMCID: PMC5348682 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.4015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of heart failure (HF) on sinoatrial node (SAN) channel regulation and electropharmacological responses has remained elusive. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of HF on the electrical activity of SANs with and without pharmacological interventions. Action potentials (APs) were recorded in isolated SANs from normal rabbits (control) and those with HF (rapid ventricular pacing for 4 weeks) prior to and after administration of a funny current blocker (ivabradine; 0.1, 0.3, 3 or 10 µM), a calmodulin kinase II inhibitor (KN-93; 0.3 or 3 µM), a sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ release inhibitor (ryanodine; 0.3 or 3 µM), a sodium current inhibitor (tetrodotoxin; 1, 3 or 10 µM) and a late sodium current inhibitor (ranolazine; 10 µM). Western blot analysis was used to investigate the protein expression in SANs from normal rabbits and those with HF. Control SANs had a higher beating rate than SANs from rabbits with HF (2.3±0.1 vs. 1.5±0.1 Hz; P<0.001). Similarly, ivabradine (10 µM), KN-93 (3 µM), ranolazine (10 µM) and ryanodine (3 µM) decreased the beating rates of SANs in the control (n=6) and HF (n=6) groups. Ivabradine treatment resulted in a higher incidence of AP block in HF vs. control SANs (66.7 vs. 0%; P<0.05). Tetrodotoxin (1, 3 or 10 µM) decreased the beating rate to a higher extent in SANs from rabbits with HF than in those from control rabbits and induced a higher incidence of AP block (66.7 vs. 0%; P<0.05). Furthermore, SANs from rabbits with HF had higher protein levels of phospholamban (PLB) and lower levels of hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated potassium channel 4, ryanodine receptor and phosphorylated PLB than control SANs. In conclusion, HF modulates electropharmacological responses in the SAN by channel regulation, which may result in SAN dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Lin Chang
- Division of Cardiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan, R.O.C
- Department of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei 112, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Hui-Lun Chuang
- Division of Cardiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan, R.O.C
- Department of Physiology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei 112, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Yao-Chang Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Yu-Hsun Kao
- Department of Medical Education and Research, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan, R.O.C
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Yung-Kuo Lin
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan, R.O.C
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Yung-Hsin Yeh
- The First Cardiovascular Division, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang-Gung University, Tao-Yuan 244, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Shih-Ann Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 112, Taiwan, R.O.C
- Department of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei 112, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Yi-Jen Chen
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan, R.O.C
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 116, Taiwan, R.O.C
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16
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Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias can follow disruption of the normal cellular electrophysiological processes underlying excitable activity and their tissue propagation as coherent wavefronts from the primary sinoatrial node pacemaker, through the atria, conducting structures and ventricular myocardium. These physiological events are driven by interacting, voltage-dependent, processes of activation, inactivation, and recovery in the ion channels present in cardiomyocyte membranes. Generation and conduction of these events are further modulated by intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, and metabolic and structural change. This review describes experimental studies on murine models for known clinical arrhythmic conditions in which these mechanisms were modified by genetic, physiological, or pharmacological manipulation. These exemplars yielded molecular, physiological, and structural phenotypes often directly translatable to their corresponding clinical conditions, which could be investigated at the molecular, cellular, tissue, organ, and whole animal levels. Arrhythmogenesis could be explored during normal pacing activity, regular stimulation, following imposed extra-stimuli, or during progressively incremented steady pacing frequencies. Arrhythmic substrate was identified with temporal and spatial functional heterogeneities predisposing to reentrant excitation phenomena. These could arise from abnormalities in cardiac pacing function, tissue electrical connectivity, and cellular excitation and recovery. Triggering events during or following recovery from action potential excitation could thereby lead to sustained arrhythmia. These surface membrane processes were modified by alterations in cellular Ca2+ homeostasis and energetics, as well as cellular and tissue structural change. Study of murine systems thus offers major insights into both our understanding of normal cardiac activity and its propagation, and their relationship to mechanisms generating clinical arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L-H Huang
- Physiological Laboratory and the Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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17
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Abstract
Sino-atrial node (SAN) dysfunctions and associated complications constitute important causes of morbidity in patients with cardiac diseases. The development of novel pharmacological therapies to cure these patients relies on the thorough understanding of both normal physiology and pathophysiology of the SAN. Among the studies of cardiac pacemaking, the mouse SAN is widely used due to its feasibility for modifications in the expression of different genes that encode SAN ion channels or calcium handling proteins. Emerging evidence from electrophysiological and histological studies has also proved the representativeness and similarity of the mouse SAN structure and functions to larger mammals, including the presence of specialized conduction pathways from the SAN to the atrium and a complex pacemakers' hierarchy within the SAN. Recently, the technique of optical mapping has greatly facilitated the exploration and investigation of the origin of excitation and conduction within and from the mouse SAN, which in turn has extended the understanding of the SAN and benefited clinical treatments of SAN dysfunction associated diseases. In this manuscript, we have described in detail how to perform the optical mapping of the mouse SAN from the intact, Langendorff-perfused heart and from the isolated atrial preparation. This protocol is a useful tool to enhance the understanding of mouse SAN physiology and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Lang
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health
| | - Alexey V Glukhov
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health;
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Schroder EA, Burgess DE, Manning CL, Zhao Y, Moss AJ, Patwardhan A, Elayi CS, Esser KA, Delisle BP. Light phase-restricted feeding slows basal heart rate to exaggerate the type-3 long QT syndrome phenotype in mice. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2014; 307:H1777-85. [PMID: 25343952 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00341.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Long QT syndrome type 3 (LQT3) is caused by mutations in the SCN5A-encoded Nav1.5 channel. LQT3 patients exhibit time of day-associated abnormal increases in their heart rate-corrected QT (QTc) intervals and risk for life-threatening episodes. This study determines the effects of uncoupling environmental time cues that entrain circadian rhythms (time of light and time of feeding) on heart rate and ventricular repolarization in wild-type (WT) or transgenic LQT3 mice (Scn5a(+/ΔKPQ)). We used an established light phase-restricted feeding paradigm that disrupts the alignment among the circadian rhythms in the central pacemaker of the suprachiasmatic nucleus and peripheral tissues including heart. Circadian analysis of the RR and QT intervals showed the Scn5a(+/ΔKPQ) mice had QT rhythms with larger amplitudes and 24-h midline means and a more pronounced slowing of the heart rate. For both WT and Scn5a(+/ΔKPQ) mice, light phase-restricted feeding shifted the RR and QT rhythms ~12 h, increased their amplitudes greater than twofold, and raised the 24-h midline mean by ~10%. In contrast to WT mice, the QTc interval in Scn5a(+/ΔKPQ) mice exhibited time-of-day prolongation that was flipped after light phase-restricted feeding. The time-of-day changes in the QTc intervals of Scn5a(+/ΔKPQ) mice were secondary to a steeper power relation between their QT and RR intervals. We conclude that uncoupling time of feeding from normal light cues can dramatically slow heart rate to unmask genotype-specific differences in the QT intervals and aggravate the LQT3-related phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Schroder
- Department of Physiology, Center for Muscle Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Don E Burgess
- Department of Physiology, Center for Muscle Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Cody L Manning
- Department of Physiology, Center for Muscle Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Yihua Zhao
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Arthur J Moss
- Department of Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York; and
| | - Abhijit Patwardhan
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Claude S Elayi
- Department of Cardiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Karyn A Esser
- Department of Physiology, Center for Muscle Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Brian P Delisle
- Department of Physiology, Center for Muscle Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky;
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Zhang Y, Wu J, King JH, Huang CLH, Fraser JA. Measurement and interpretation of electrocardiographic QT intervals in murine hearts. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2014; 306:H1553-7. [PMID: 24705556 PMCID: PMC4042200 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00459.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Alterations in ECG QT intervals correlate with the risk of potentially fatal arrhythmias, for which transgenic murine hearts are becoming increasingly useful experimental models. However, QT intervals are poorly defined in murine ECGs. As a consequence, several different techniques have been used to measure murine QT intervals. The present work develops a consistent measure of the murine QT interval that correlates with changes in the duration of ventricular myocyte action potentials (APs). Volume-conducted ECGs were compared with simultaneously recorded APs, obtained using floating intracellular microelectrodes in Langendorff-perfused mouse hearts. QT intervals were measured from the onset of the QRS complex. The interval, Q-APR90, measured to the time at 90% AP recovery, was compared with two measures of the QT interval. QT1 was measured to the recovery of the ECG trace to the isoelectric baseline for entirely positive T-waves or to the trough of any negative T-wave undershoot. QT2—used extensively in previous studies—was measured to the return of any ECG trough to the isoelectric baseline. QT1, but not QT2, closely correlated with changes in Q-APR90. These findings were confirmed over a range of pacing rates, in low K+ concentration solutions, and in Scn5a+/ΔKPQ hearts used to model human long QT syndrome. Application of this method in whole anesthetized mice similarly demonstrated a prolonged corrected QT (QTc) in Scn5a+/ΔKPQ hearts. We therefore describe a robust method for the determination of QT and QTc intervals that correlate with the duration of ventricular myocyte APs in murine hearts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmin Zhang
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Heart Centre, Northwest Women's and Children's Hospital (formerly the Shaanxi Provincial Maternity and Children Healthcare Hospital), Xi'an, China; and
| | - JingJing Wu
- Centre for Ion Channel Research and Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Union Hospital, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - James H King
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - James A Fraser
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom;
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Riley G, Syeda F, Kirchhof P, Fabritz L. An introduction to murine models of atrial fibrillation. Front Physiol 2012; 3:296. [PMID: 22934047 PMCID: PMC3429067 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2012.00296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Accepted: 07/08/2012] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the mechanism of re-entrant arrhythmias in the past 30 years has allowed the development of almost curative therapies for many rhythm disturbances. The complex, polymorphic arrhythmias of atrial fibrillation (AF) and sudden death are, unfortunately, not yet well understood, and hence still in need of adequate therapy. AF contributes markedly to morbidity and mortality in aging Western populations. In the past decade, many genetically altered murine models have been described and characterized. Here, we review genetically altered murine models of AF; powerful tools that will enable a better understanding of the mechanisms of AF and the assessment of novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genna Riley
- Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Birmingham Birmingham, UK
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Huang CLH, Lei L, Matthews GDK, Zhang Y, Lei M. Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Sino-Atrial Dysfunction and Ventricular Conduction Disease Associated with SCN5A Deficiency: Insights from Mouse Models. Front Physiol 2012; 3:234. [PMID: 22783200 PMCID: PMC3390692 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2012.00234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2012] [Accepted: 06/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetically modified mice provide a number of models for studying cardiac channelopathies related to cardiac Na+ channel (SCN5A) abnormalities. We review key pathophysiological features in these murine models that may underlie clinical features observed in sinus node dysfunction and progressive cardiac conduction disease, thereby providing insights into their pathophysiological mechanisms. We describe loss of Na+ channel function and fibrotic changes associated with both loss and gain-of-function Na+ channel mutations. Recent reports further relate the progressive fibrotic changes to upregulation of TGF-β1 production and the transcription factors, Atf3, a stress-inducible gene, and Egr1, to the presence of heterozygous Scn5a gene deletion. Both changes are thus directly implicated in the clinically observed disruptions in sino-atrial node pacemaker function, and sino-atrial and ventricular conduction, and their progression with age. Murine systems with genetic modifications in Scn5a thus prove a useful tool to address questions concerning roles of genetic and environmental modifiers on human SCN5A disease phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L-H Huang
- Physiological Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge Cambridge, UK
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Derangeon M, Montnach J, Baró I, Charpentier F. Mouse Models of SCN5A-Related Cardiac Arrhythmias. Front Physiol 2012; 3:210. [PMID: 22737129 PMCID: PMC3381239 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2012.00210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2012] [Accepted: 05/29/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations of SCN5A gene, which encodes the α-subunit of the voltage-gated Na+ channel NaV1.5, underlie hereditary cardiac arrhythmic syndromes such as the type 3 long QT syndrome, cardiac conduction diseases, the Brugada syndrome, the sick sinus syndrome, a trial standstill, and numerous overlap syndromes. Patch-clamp studies in heterologous expression systems have provided important information to understand the genotype-phenotype relationships of these diseases. However, they could not clarify how SCN5A mutations can be responsible for such a large spectrum of diseases, for the late age of onset or the progressiveness of some of these diseases and for the overlapping syndromes. Genetically modified mice rapidly appeared as promising tools for understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of cardiac SCN5A-related arrhythmic syndromes and several mouse models have been established. This review presents the results obtained on these models that, for most of them, recapitulate the clinical phenotypes of the patients. This includes two models knocked out for Nav1.5 β1 and β3 auxiliary subunits that are also discussed. Despite their own limitations that we point out, the mouse models still appear as powerful tools to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms of SCN5A-related diseases and offer the opportunity to investigate the secondary cellular consequences of SCN5A mutations such as the expression remodeling of other genes. This points out the potential role of these genes in the overall human phenotype. Finally, they constitute useful tools for addressing the role of genetic and environmental modifiers on cardiac electrical activity.
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