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Hennis K, Piantoni C, Biel M, Fenske S, Wahl-Schott C. Pacemaker Channels and the Chronotropic Response in Health and Disease. Circ Res 2024; 134:1348-1378. [PMID: 38723033 PMCID: PMC11081487 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.123.323250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Loss or dysregulation of the normally precise control of heart rate via the autonomic nervous system plays a critical role during the development and progression of cardiovascular disease-including ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. While the clinical significance of regulating changes in heart rate, known as the chronotropic effect, is undeniable, the mechanisms controlling these changes remain not fully understood. Heart rate acceleration and deceleration are mediated by increasing or decreasing the spontaneous firing rate of pacemaker cells in the sinoatrial node. During the transition from rest to activity, sympathetic neurons stimulate these cells by activating β-adrenergic receptors and increasing intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate. The same signal transduction pathway is targeted by positive chronotropic drugs such as norepinephrine and dobutamine, which are used in the treatment of cardiogenic shock and severe heart failure. The cyclic adenosine monophosphate-sensitive hyperpolarization-activated current (If) in pacemaker cells is passed by hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channels and is critical for generating the autonomous heartbeat. In addition, this current has been suggested to play a central role in the chronotropic effect. Recent studies demonstrate that cyclic adenosine monophosphate-dependent regulation of HCN4 (hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channel isoform 4) acts to stabilize the heart rate, particularly during rapid rate transitions induced by the autonomic nervous system. The mechanism is based on creating a balance between firing and recently discovered nonfiring pacemaker cells in the sinoatrial node. In this way, hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation channels may protect the heart from sinoatrial node dysfunction, secondary arrhythmia of the atria, and potentially fatal tachyarrhythmia of the ventricles. Here, we review the latest findings on sinoatrial node automaticity and discuss the physiological and pathophysiological role of HCN pacemaker channels in the chronotropic response and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin Hennis
- Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Biomedical Center Munich, Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine (K.H., C.P., C.W.-S.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
| | - Chiara Piantoni
- Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Biomedical Center Munich, Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine (K.H., C.P., C.W.-S.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
| | - Martin Biel
- Department of Pharmacy, Center for Drug Research (M.B., S.F.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Germany (M.B., S.F.)
| | - Stefanie Fenske
- Department of Pharmacy, Center for Drug Research (M.B., S.F.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Germany (M.B., S.F.)
| | - Christian Wahl-Schott
- Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, Biomedical Center Munich, Walter Brendel Centre of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine (K.H., C.P., C.W.-S.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany
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2
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Inokaitis H, Pauziene N, Pauza DH. The distribution of sinoatrial nodal cells and their innervation in the pig. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2023; 306:2333-2344. [PMID: 35643929 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The sinoatrial node (SAN) has been the object of interest of various studies. In experimental neurocardiology, the real challenge is the choice of the most appropriate animal model. Pig is routinely used animal due to its size and physiological features. Despite this, the anatomy and innervation of the pig SAN are not completely examined. This study analyses the distribution of SAN cells and their innervation in whole-mount preparations and the cross-sections of the pig right atrium. Our findings revealed the differences in the distribution of the SAN cells and their innervation pattern between pigs and other animals. The pig SAN myocytes were distributed around the root of the anterior vena cava. A meshwork of nerve fibers (NFs) in this area was four-fold denser compared to other right atrial areas and contained the adrenergic (positive for TH), cholinergic (positive for ChAT), nitrergic (positive for nNOS), and potentially sensory (positive for SP) NFs. The SAN area contained 98 ± 10 ganglia that involved 21 ± 2 neuronal somata per ganglion. The determined chemical phenotypes of ganglionic cells demonstrate their diversity in the pig SAN area as there were identified neuronal somata positive for ChAT, nNOS, TH, and simultaneously for ChAT/nNOS and ChAT/TH. Small intensively fluorescent cells were also abundant. The broad distribution of SAN cells, the chemical diversity, and the high density of neural components in the SAN area are comparable to the human one and, therefore, the pig may be considered as the appropriate animal model for experimental cardiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermanas Inokaitis
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Neringa Pauziene
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Dainius H Pauza
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
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3
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Choi BR, Ziv O, Salama G. Conduction delays across the specialized conduction system of the heart: Revisiting atrioventricular node (AVN) and Purkinje-ventricular junction (PVJ) delays. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1158480. [PMID: 37153461 PMCID: PMC10154624 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1158480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and significance The specialized conduction system (SCS) of the heart was extensively studied to understand the synchronization of atrial and ventricular contractions, the large atrial to His bundle (A-H) delay through the atrioventricular node (AVN), and delays between Purkinje (P) and ventricular (V) depolarization at distinct junctions (J), PVJs. Here, we use optical mapping of perfused rabbit hearts to revisit the mechanism that explains A-H delay and the role of a passive electrotonic step-delay at the boundary between atria and the AVN. We further visualize how the P anatomy controls papillary activation and valve closure before ventricular activation. Methods Rabbit hearts were perfused with a bolus (100-200 µl) of a voltage-sensitive dye (di4ANEPPS), blebbistatin (10-20 µM for 20 min) then the right atrial appendage and ventricular free-wall were cut to expose the AVN, P fibers (PFs), the septum, papillary muscles, and the endocardium. Fluorescence images were focused on a CMOS camera (SciMedia) captured at 1K-5 K frames/s from 100 × 100 pixels. Results AP propagation across the AVN-His (A-H) exhibits distinct patterns of delay and conduction blocks during S1-S2 stimulation. Refractory periods were 81 ± 9, 90 ± 21, 185 ± 15 ms for Atrial, AVN, and His, respectively. A large delay (>40 ms) occurs between atrial and AVN activation that increased during rapid atrial pacing contributing to the development of Wenckebach periodicity followed by delays within the AVN through slow or blocked conduction. The temporal resolution of the camera allowed us to identify PVJs by detecting doublets of AP upstrokes. PVJ delays were heterogeneous, fastest in PVJ that immediately trigger ventricular APs (3.4 ± 0.8 ms) and slow in regions where PF appear insulated from the neighboring ventricular myocytes (7.8 ± 2.4 ms). Insulated PF along papillary muscles conducted APs (>2 m/s), then triggered papillary muscle APs (<1 m/s), followed by APs firing of septum and endocardium. The anatomy of PFs and PVJs produced activation patterns that control the sequence of contractions ensuring that papillary contractions close the tricuspid valve 2-5 ms before right ventricular contractions. Conclusions The specialized conduction system can be accessed optically to investigate the electrical properties of the AVN, PVJ and activation patterns in physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bum-Rak Choi
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Ohad Ziv
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital and Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Guy Salama
- Department of Medicine, Heart and Vascular Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Correspondence: Guy Salama
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Dorey TW, Mackasey M, Jansen HJ, McRae MD, Bohne LJ, Liu Y, Belke DD, Atkinson L, Rose RA. Natriuretic peptide receptor B maintains heart rate and sinoatrial node function via cyclic GMP-mediated signaling. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 118:1917-1931. [PMID: 34273155 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Heart rate (HR) is a critical indicator of cardiac performance that is determined by sinoatrial node (SAN) function and regulation. Natriuretic peptides, including C-type NP (CNP) have been shown to modulate ion channel function in the SAN when applied exogenously. CNP is the only NP that acts as a ligand for natriuretic peptide receptor-B (NPR-B). Despite these properties, the ability of CNP and NPR-B to regulate HR and intrinsic SAN automaticity in vivo, and the mechanisms by which it does so, are incompletely understood. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the role of NPR-B signaling in regulating HR and SAN function. METHODS AND RESULTS We have used NPR-B deficient mice (NPR-B+/-) to study HR regulation and SAN function using telemetry in conscious mice, intracardiac electrophysiology in anesthetized mice, high resolution optical mapping in isolated SAN preparations, patch-clamping in isolated SAN myocytes, and molecular biology in isolated SAN tissue. These studies demonstrate that NPR-B+/- mice exhibit slow HR, increased corrected SAN recovery time, and slowed SAN conduction. Spontaneous AP firing frequency in isolated SAN myocytes was impaired in NPR-B+/- mice due to reductions in the hyperpolarization activated current (If) and L-type Ca2+ current (ICa,L). If and ICa,L were reduced due to lower cGMP levels and increased hydrolysis of cAMP by phosphodiesterase 3 (PDE3) in the SAN. Inhibiting PDE3 or restoring cGMP signaling via application of 8-Br-cGMP abolished the reductions in cAMP, AP firing, If, and ICa,L, and normalized SAN conduction, in the SAN in NPR-B+/- mice. NPR-B+/- mice did not exhibit changes in SAN fibrosis and showed no evidence of cardiac hypertrophy or changes in ventricular function. CONCLUSIONS NPR-B plays an essential physiological role in maintaining normal HR and SAN function by modulating ion channel function in SAN myocytes via a cGMP/PDE3/cAMP signaling mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan W Dorey
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Martin Mackasey
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Hailey J Jansen
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Megan D McRae
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Loryn J Bohne
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Yingjie Liu
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Darrell D Belke
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Logan Atkinson
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Robert A Rose
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Hanna P, Dacey MJ, Brennan J, Moss A, Robbins S, Achanta S, Biscola NP, Swid MA, Rajendran PS, Mori S, Hadaya JE, Smith EH, Peirce SG, Chen J, Havton LA, Cheng Z(J, Vadigepalli R, Schwaber J, Lux RL, Efimov I, Tompkins JD, Hoover DB, Ardell JL, Shivkumar K. Innervation and Neuronal Control of the Mammalian Sinoatrial Node a Comprehensive Atlas. Circ Res 2021; 128:1279-1296. [PMID: 33629877 PMCID: PMC8284939 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.120.318458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Hanna
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Program of Excellence, Department of Medicine
- UCLA Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology Program, UCLA
| | - Michael J. Dacey
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Program of Excellence, Department of Medicine
- UCLA Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology Program, UCLA
| | - Jaclyn Brennan
- Bioengineering, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Alison Moss
- Daniel Baugh Institute for Functional Genomics/Computational Biology, Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Shaina Robbins
- Daniel Baugh Institute for Functional Genomics/Computational Biology, Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Sirisha Achanta
- Daniel Baugh Institute for Functional Genomics/Computational Biology, Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Mohammed A. Swid
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Program of Excellence, Department of Medicine
| | - Pradeep S. Rajendran
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Program of Excellence, Department of Medicine
| | - Shumpei Mori
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Program of Excellence, Department of Medicine
| | - Joseph E. Hadaya
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Program of Excellence, Department of Medicine
| | | | | | - Jin Chen
- University of Central Florida, Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Orlando, FL
| | - Leif A. Havton
- Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY
- Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
- VA RR&D National Center of Excellence for the Medical Consequences of Spinal and; Cord Injury and Neurology Service, James J. Peters Veterans Administration Medical Center, Bronx, NY
| | - Zixi (Jack) Cheng
- University of Central Florida, Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Orlando, FL
| | - Rajanikanth Vadigepalli
- Daniel Baugh Institute for Functional Genomics/Computational Biology, Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - James Schwaber
- Daniel Baugh Institute for Functional Genomics/Computational Biology, Department of Pathology, Anatomy, and Cell Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Robert L. Lux
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Program of Excellence, Department of Medicine
| | - Igor Efimov
- Bioengineering, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - John D. Tompkins
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Program of Excellence, Department of Medicine
| | - Donald B. Hoover
- Biomedical Sciences
- Center of Excellence in Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University
| | - Jeffrey L. Ardell
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Program of Excellence, Department of Medicine
- UCLA Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology Program, UCLA
| | - Kalyanam Shivkumar
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Program of Excellence, Department of Medicine
- UCLA Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology Program, UCLA
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6
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Lang D, Glukhov AV. Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Functional Hierarchy of Pacemaker Clusters in the Sinoatrial Node: New Insights into Sick Sinus Syndrome. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2021; 8:jcdd8040043. [PMID: 33924321 PMCID: PMC8069964 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd8040043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The sinoatrial node (SAN), the primary pacemaker of the heart, consists of a heterogeneous population of specialized cardiac myocytes that can spontaneously produce action potentials, generating the rhythm of the heart and coordinating heart contractions. Spontaneous beating can be observed from very early embryonic stage and under a series of genetic programing, the complex heterogeneous SAN cells are formed with specific biomarker proteins and generate robust automaticity. The SAN is capable to adjust its pacemaking rate in response to environmental and autonomic changes to regulate the heart's performance and maintain physiological needs of the body. Importantly, the origin of the action potential in the SAN is not static, but rather dynamically changes according to the prevailing conditions. Changes in the heart rate are associated with a shift of the leading pacemaker location within the SAN and accompanied by alterations in P wave morphology and PQ interval on ECG. Pacemaker shift occurs in response to different interventions: neurohormonal modulation, cardiac glycosides, pharmacological agents, mechanical stretch, a change in temperature, and a change in extracellular electrolyte concentrations. It was linked with the presence of distinct anatomically and functionally defined intranodal pacemaker clusters that are responsible for the generation of the heart rhythm at different rates. Recent studies indicate that on the cellular level, different pacemaker clusters rely on a complex interplay between the calcium (referred to local subsarcolemmal Ca2+ releases generated by the sarcoplasmic reticulum via ryanodine receptors) and voltage (referred to sarcolemmal electrogenic proteins) components of so-called "coupled clock pacemaker system" that is used to describe a complex mechanism of SAN pacemaking. In this review, we examine the structural, functional, and molecular evidence for hierarchical pacemaker clustering within the SAN. We also demonstrate the unique molecular signatures of intranodal pacemaker clusters, highlighting their importance for physiological rhythm regulation as well as their role in the development of SAN dysfunction, also known as sick sinus syndrome.
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7
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Soattin L, Borbas Z, Caldwell J, Prendergast B, Vohra A, Saeed Y, Hoschtitzky A, Yanni J, Atkinson A, Logantha SJ, Borbas B, Garratt C, Morris GM, Dobrzynski H. Structural and Functional Properties of Subsidiary Atrial Pacemakers in a Goat Model of Sinus Node Disease. Front Physiol 2021; 12:592229. [PMID: 33746765 PMCID: PMC7969524 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.592229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The sinoatrial/sinus node (SAN) is the primary pacemaker of the heart. In humans, SAN is surrounded by the paranodal area (PNA). Although the PNA function remains debated, it is thought to act as a subsidiary atrial pacemaker (SAP) tissue and become the dominant pacemaker in the setting of sinus node disease (SND). Large animal models of SND allow characterization of SAP, which might be a target for novel treatment strategies for SAN diseases. Methods A goat model of SND was developed (n = 10) by epicardially ablating the SAN and validated by mapping of emergent SAP locations through an ablation catheter and surface electrocardiogram (ECG). Structural characterization of the goat SAN and SAP was assessed by histology and immunofluorescence techniques. Results When the SAN was ablated, SAPs featured a shortened atrioventricular conduction, consistent with the location in proximity of atrioventricular junction. SAP recovery time showed significant prolongation compared to the SAN recovery time, followed by a decrease over a follow-up of 4 weeks. Like the SAN tissue, the SAP expressed the main isoform of pacemaker hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated channel 4 (HCN4) and Na+/Ca2+ exchanger 1 (NCX1) and no high conductance connexin 43 (Cx43). Structural characterization of the right atrium (RA) revealed that the SAN was located at the earliest activation [i.e., at the junction of the superior vena cava (SVC) with the RA] and was surrounded by the paranodal-like tissue, extending down to the inferior vena cava (IVC). Emerged SAPs were localized close to the IVC and within the thick band of the atrial muscle known as the crista terminalis (CT). Conclusions SAN ablation resulted in the generation of chronic SAP activity in 60% of treated animals. SAP displayed development over time and was located within the previously discovered PNA in humans, suggesting its role as dominant pacemaker in SND. Therefore, SAP in goat constitutes a promising stable target for electrophysiological modification to construct a fully functioning pacemaker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Soattin
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Zoltan Borbas
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Manchester Heart Centre, Central Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Caldwell
- Manchester Heart Centre, Central Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Hull University Teaching Hospitals, Hull, United Kingdom.,Hull York Medical School, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Brian Prendergast
- Manchester Heart Centre, Central Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Akbar Vohra
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Manchester Heart Centre, Central Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Yawer Saeed
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Manchester Heart Centre, Central Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Andreas Hoschtitzky
- Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Royal Brompton Hospital, London, United Kingdom.,Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Yanni
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Atkinson
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Sunil Jit Logantha
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Balint Borbas
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Clifford Garratt
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Manchester Heart Centre, Central Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Gwilym Matthew Morris
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Manchester Heart Centre, Central Manchester University Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Halina Dobrzynski
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
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8
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Fedele L, Brand T. The Intrinsic Cardiac Nervous System and Its Role in Cardiac Pacemaking and Conduction. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2020; 7:jcdd7040054. [PMID: 33255284 PMCID: PMC7712215 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd7040054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The cardiac autonomic nervous system (CANS) plays a key role for the regulation of cardiac activity with its dysregulation being involved in various heart diseases, such as cardiac arrhythmias. The CANS comprises the extrinsic and intrinsic innervation of the heart. The intrinsic cardiac nervous system (ICNS) includes the network of the intracardiac ganglia and interconnecting neurons. The cardiac ganglia contribute to the tight modulation of cardiac electrophysiology, working as a local hub integrating the inputs of the extrinsic innervation and the ICNS. A better understanding of the role of the ICNS for the modulation of the cardiac conduction system will be crucial for targeted therapies of various arrhythmias. We describe the embryonic development, anatomy, and physiology of the ICNS. By correlating the topography of the intracardiac neurons with what is known regarding their biophysical and neurochemical properties, we outline their physiological role in the control of pacemaker activity of the sinoatrial and atrioventricular nodes. We conclude by highlighting cardiac disorders with a putative involvement of the ICNS and outline open questions that need to be addressed in order to better understand the physiology and pathophysiology of the ICNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fedele
- Correspondence: (L.F.); (T.B.); Tel.: +44-(0)-207-594-6531 (L.F.); +44-(0)-207-594-8744 (T.B.)
| | - Thomas Brand
- Correspondence: (L.F.); (T.B.); Tel.: +44-(0)-207-594-6531 (L.F.); +44-(0)-207-594-8744 (T.B.)
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9
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Mavroidis M, Athanasiadis NC, Rigas P, Kostavasili I, Kloukina I, Te Rijdt WP, Kavantzas N, Chaniotis D, van Tintelen JP, Skaliora I, Davos CH. Desmin is essential for the structure and function of the sinoatrial node: implications for increased arrhythmogenesis. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2020; 319:H557-H570. [PMID: 32678709 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00594.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to investigate the effect of desmin depletion on the structure and function of the sinoatrial pacemaker complex (SANcl) and its implication in arrhythmogenesis. Analysis of mice and humans (SANcl) indicated that the sinoatrial node exhibits high amounts of desmin, desmoplakin, N-cadherin, and β-catenin in structures we call "lateral intercalated disks" connecting myocytes side by side. Examination of the SANcl from an arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy model, desmin-deficient (Des-/-) mouse, by immunofluorescence, ultrastructural, and Western blot analysis showed that the number of these lateral intercalated disks was diminished. Also, electrophysiological recordings of the isolated compact sinoatrial node revealed increased pacemaker systolic potential and higher diastolic depolarization rate compared with wild-type mice. Prolonged interatrial conduction expressed as a longer P wave duration was also observed in Des-/- mice. Upregulation of mRNA levels of both T-type Ca2+ current channels, Cav3.1 and Cav3.2, in the Des-/- myocardium (1.8- and 2.3-fold, respectively) and a 1.9-fold reduction of funny hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated K+ channel 1 could underlie these functional differences. To investigate arrhythmogenicity, electrocardiographic analysis of Des-deficient mice revealed a major increase in supraventricular and ventricular ectopic beats compared with wild-type mice. Heart rate variability analysis indicated a sympathetic predominance in Des-/- mice, which may further contribute to arrhythmogenicity. In conclusion, our results indicate that desmin elimination leads to structural and functional abnormalities of the SANcl. These alterations may be enhanced by the sympathetic component of the cardiac autonomic nervous system, which is predominant in the desmin-deficient heart, thus leading to increased arrhythmogenesis.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The sinoatrial node exhibits high amounts of desmin and desmoplakin in structures we call "lateral intercalated disks," connecting side-by-side adjacent cardiomyocytes. These structures are diminished in desmin-deficient mouse models. Misregulation of T-type Ca2+ current and hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated K+ channel 1 was proved along with prolonged interatrial conduction and cardiac autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manolis Mavroidis
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos C Athanasiadis
- Center of Clinical Research and Experimental Surgery, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Pavlos Rigas
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioanna Kostavasili
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ismini Kloukina
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Wouter P Te Rijdt
- Department of Genetics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Department of Experimental Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Nikolaos Kavantzas
- First Department of Pathology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Chaniotis
- Center of Clinical Research and Experimental Surgery, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - J Peter van Tintelen
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Irini Skaliora
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Constantinos H Davos
- Center of Clinical Research and Experimental Surgery, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Grijalva SI, Gu J, Li J, Fernandez N, Fan J, Sung JH, Lee SY, Herndon C, Buckley EM, Park S, Fenton FH, Cho HC. Engineered Cardiac Pacemaker Nodes Created by TBX18 Gene Transfer Overcome Source-Sink Mismatch. Adv Sci (Weinh) 2019; 6:1901099. [PMID: 31763140 PMCID: PMC6864514 DOI: 10.1002/advs.201901099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Every heartbeat originates from a tiny tissue in the heart called the sinoatrial node (SAN). The SAN harbors only ≈10 000 cardiac pacemaker cells, initiating an electrical impulse that captures the entire heart, consisting of billions of cardiomyocytes for each cardiac contraction. How these rare cardiac pacemaker cells (the electrical source) can overcome the electrically hyperpolarizing and quiescent myocardium (the electrical sink) is incompletely understood. Due to the scarcity of native pacemaker cells, this concept of source-sink mismatch cannot be tested directly with live cardiac tissue constructs. By exploiting TBX18 induced pacemaker cells by somatic gene transfer, 3D cardiac pacemaker spheroids can be tissue-engineered. The TBX18 induced pacemakers (sphTBX18) pace autonomously and drive the contraction of neighboring myocardium in vitro. TBX18 spheroids demonstrate the need for reduced electrical coupling and physical separation from the neighboring ventricular myocytes, successfully recapitulating a key design principle of the native SAN. β-Adrenergic stimulation as well as electrical uncoupling significantly increase sphTBX18s' ability to pace-and-drive the neighboring myocardium. This model represents the first platform to test design principles of the SAN for mechanistic understanding and to better engineer biological pacemakers for therapeutic translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra I. Grijalva
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringGeorgia Institute of Technology and Emory UniversityAtlantaGA30332USA
| | - Jin‐mo Gu
- Department of PediatricsEmory UniversityAtlantaGA30322USA
| | - Jun Li
- Department of PediatricsEmory UniversityAtlantaGA30322USA
| | | | - Jinqi Fan
- Department of PediatricsEmory UniversityAtlantaGA30322USA
| | - Jung Hoon Sung
- Department of PediatricsEmory UniversityAtlantaGA30322USA
- Department of Internal MedicineCHA Bundang Medical CenterSeoul13557South Korea
| | - Seung Yup Lee
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringGeorgia Institute of Technology and Emory UniversityAtlantaGA30332USA
| | - Conner Herndon
- Department of PhysicsGeorgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGA30332USA
| | - Erin M. Buckley
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringGeorgia Institute of Technology and Emory UniversityAtlantaGA30332USA
| | - Sung‐Jin Park
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringGeorgia Institute of Technology and Emory UniversityAtlantaGA30332USA
| | - Flavio H. Fenton
- Department of PhysicsGeorgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGA30332USA
| | - Hee Cheol Cho
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringGeorgia Institute of Technology and Emory UniversityAtlantaGA30332USA
- Department of PediatricsEmory UniversityAtlantaGA30322USA
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11
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Ashton JL, Trew ML, LeGrice IJ, Paterson DJ, Paton JF, Gillis AM, Smaill BH. Shift of leading pacemaker site during reflex vagal stimulation and altered electrical source-to-sink balance. J Physiol 2019; 597:3297-3313. [PMID: 31087820 DOI: 10.1113/jp276876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Vagal reflexes slow heart rate and can change where the heartbeat originates within the sinoatrial node (SAN). The mechanisms responsible for this process - termed leading pacemaker (LP) shift - have not been investigated fully. We used optical mapping to measure the effects of baroreflex, chemoreflex and carbachol on pacemaker entrainment and electrical conduction across the SAN. All methods of stimulation triggered shifts in LP site from the central SAN to one or two caudal pacemaker regions. These shifts were associated with reduced current generation capacity centrally and increased electrical load caudally. Previous studies suggest LP shift is a rate-dependent phenomenon whereby acetylcholine slows central pacemaker rate disproportionately, enabling caudal cells that are less acetylcholine sensitive to assume control. However, our findings indicate the LP region is defined by both pacemaker rate and capacity to drive activation. Shifts in LP site provide an important homeostatic mechanism for rapid switches in heart rate. ABSTRACT Reflex vagal activity causes abrupt heart rate slowing with concomitant caudal shifts of the leading pacemaker (LP) site within the sinoatrial node (SAN). However, neither the mechanisms responsible nor their dynamics have been investigated fully. Therefore, the objective of this study was to elucidate the mechanisms driving cholinergic LP shift. Optical maps of right atrial activation were acquired in a rat working heart-brainstem preparation during baroreflex and chemoreflex stimulation or with carbachol. All methods of stimulation triggered shifts in LP site from the central SAN to caudal pacemaker regions, which were positive for HCN4 and received uniform cholinergic innervation. During baroreflex onset, the capacity of the central region to drive activation declined with a decrease in amplitude and gradient of optical action potentials (OAPs) in the surrounding myocardium. Accompanying this decline, there was altered entrainment in the caudal SAN as shown by decreased conduction velocity, OAP amplitude, gradient and activation time. Atropine abolished these responses. Chemoreflex stimulation produced similar effects but central capacity to drive activation was preserved before the LP shift. In contrast, carbachol produced a prolonged period of reduced capacity to drive and altered entrainment. Previous studies suggest LP shift is a rate-dependent phenomenon whereby acetylcholine slows central pacemaker rate disproportionately, enabling caudal cells that are less acetylcholine sensitive to assume control. Our findings indicate that cholinergic LP shifts are also determined by altered electrical source-to-sink balance in the SAN. We conclude that the LP region is defined by both rate and capacity to drive atrial activation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark L Trew
- University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | | | | | - Anne M Gillis
- University of Calgary - Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Calgary, AB, Canada
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12
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Karpaev AA, Syunyaev RA, Aliev RR. Effects of fibroblast-myocyte coupling on the sinoatrial node activity: A computational study. Int J Numer Method Biomed Eng 2018; 34:e2966. [PMID: 29431901 DOI: 10.1002/cnm.2966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 12/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
While the sinoatrial node (SAN) is structurally heterogeneous, most computer simulations of electrical activity take into account SAN pacemaker cells only. Our aim was to investigate how fibroblasts affect the SAN activity. We simulated the rabbit sinoatrial node accounting for differences between central and peripheral pacemaker cells, and for fibroblast-myocyte electrical coupling. We have observed that only if fibroblast-myocyte coupling is taken into account, (1) action potential is initiated in the central part of the SAN (within 1.2 mm of the center of simulated tissue); otherwise, leading centers are located on the periphery; (2) few (1 to 6) leading centers initiate action potential in the SAN; otherwise, we observed more than 8 leading centers; (3) acetylcholine superfusion results in a shift of leading centers toward the SAN periphery; and (4) sinus pauses up to 1.9 second follow acetylcholine superfusion. We observed negligible effect of fibroblast-myocyte coupling on the period of SAN activation. We conclude that fibroblast-myocyte coupling may explain action potential initiation and propagation from the center of the SAN observed in experimental studies, while atrial load on the peripheral SAN fails to explain this fact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey A Karpaev
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Roman A Syunyaev
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Rubin R Aliev
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700, Dolgoprudny, Russia
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics, 142290, Puschino, Russia
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13
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Li N, Hansen BJ, Csepe TA, Zhao J, Ignozzi AJ, Sul LV, Zakharkin SO, Kalyanasundaram A, Davis JP, Biesiadecki BJ, Kilic A, Janssen PML, Mohler PJ, Weiss R, Hummel JD, Fedorov VV. Redundant and diverse intranodal pacemakers and conduction pathways protect the human sinoatrial node from failure. Sci Transl Med 2018; 9:9/400/eaam5607. [PMID: 28747516 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aam5607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The human sinoatrial node (SAN) efficiently maintains heart rhythm even under adverse conditions. However, the specific mechanisms involved in the human SAN's ability to prevent rhythm failure, also referred to as its robustness, are unknown. Challenges exist because the three-dimensional (3D) intramural structure of the human SAN differs from well-studied animal models, and clinical electrode recordings are limited to only surface atrial activation. Hence, to innovate the translational study of human SAN structural and functional robustness, we integrated intramural optical mapping, 3D histology reconstruction, and molecular mapping of the ex vivo human heart. When challenged with adenosine or atrial pacing, redundant intranodal pacemakers within the human SAN maintained automaticity and delivered electrical impulses to the atria through sinoatrial conduction pathways (SACPs), thereby ensuring a fail-safe mechanism for robust maintenance of sinus rhythm. During adenosine perturbation, the primary central SAN pacemaker was suppressed, whereas previously inactive superior or inferior intranodal pacemakers took over automaticity maintenance. Sinus rhythm was also rescued by activation of another SACP when the preferential SACP was suppressed, suggesting two independent fail-safe mechanisms for automaticity and conduction. The fail-safe mechanism in response to adenosine challenge is orchestrated by heterogeneous differences in adenosine A1 receptors and downstream GIRK4 channel protein expressions across the SAN complex. Only failure of all pacemakers and/or SACPs resulted in SAN arrest or conduction block. Our results unmasked reserve mechanisms that protect the human SAN pacemaker and conduction complex from rhythm failure, which may contribute to treatment of SAN arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Li
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Brian J Hansen
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Thomas A Csepe
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jichao Zhao
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Anthony J Ignozzi
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Lidiya V Sul
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Stanislav O Zakharkin
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Anuradha Kalyanasundaram
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jonathan P Davis
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Brandon J Biesiadecki
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ahmet Kilic
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Paul M L Janssen
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Peter J Mohler
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Raul Weiss
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - John D Hummel
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Vadim V Fedorov
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA. .,Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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14
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Monfredi O, Tsutsui K, Ziman B, Stern MD, Lakatta EG, Maltsev VA. Electrophysiological heterogeneity of pacemaker cells in the rabbit intercaval region, including the SA node: insights from recording multiple ion currents in each cell. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2018; 314:H403-H414. [PMID: 28916636 PMCID: PMC5899256 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00253.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac pacemaker cells, including cells of the sinoatrial node, are heterogeneous in size, morphology, and electrophysiological characteristics. The exact extent to which these cells differ electrophysiologically is unclear yet is critical to understanding their functioning. We examined major ionic currents in individual intercaval pacemaker cells (IPCs) sampled from the paracristal, intercaval region (including the sinoatrial node) that were spontaneously beating after enzymatic isolation from rabbit hearts. The beating rate was measured at baseline and after inhibition of the Ca2+ pump with cyclopiazonic acid. Thereafter, in each cell, we consecutively measured the density of funny current ( If), delayed rectifier K+ current ( IK) (a surrogate of repolarization capacity), and L-type Ca2+ current ( ICa,L) using whole cell patch clamp. The ionic current densities varied to a greater extent than previously appreciated, with some IPCs demonstrating very small or zero If . The density of none of the currents was correlated with cell size, while ICa,L and If densities were related to baseline beating rates. If density was correlated with IK density but not with that of ICa,L. Inhibition of Ca2+ cycling had a greater beating rate slowing effect in IPCs with lower If densities. Our numerical model simulation indicated that 1) IPCs with small (or zero) If or small ICa,L can operate via a major contribution of Ca2+ clock, 2) If-Ca2+-clock interplay could be important for robust pacemaking function, and 3) coupled If- IK function could regulate maximum diastolic potential. Thus, we have demonstrated marked electrophysiological heterogeneity of IPCs. This heterogeneity is manifested in basal beating rate and response to interference of Ca2+ cycling, which is linked to If. NEW & NOTEWORTHY In the present study, a hitherto unrecognized range of heterogeneity of ion currents in pacemaker cells from the intercaval region is demonstrated. Relationships between basal beating rate and L-type Ca2+ current and funny current ( If) density are uncovered, along with a positive relationship between If and delayed rectifier K+ current. Links are shown between the response to Ca2+ cycling blockade and If density.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Monfredi
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Science, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health , Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology, The Johns Hopkins Hospital , Baltimore, Maryland
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester , Manchester , United Kingdom
| | - Kenta Tsutsui
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Science, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Bruce Ziman
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Science, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Michael D Stern
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Science, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Edward G Lakatta
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Science, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health , Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Victor A Maltsev
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Science, Biomedical Research Center, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health , Baltimore, Maryland
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15
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Wilders R. Sinus Bradycardia in Carriers of the SCN5A-1795insD Mutation: Unraveling the Mechanism through Computer Simulations. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E634. [PMID: 29473904 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19020634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [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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Kharche SR, Vigmond E, Efimov IR, Dobrzynski H. Computational assessment of the functional role of sinoatrial node exit pathways in the human heart. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183727. [PMID: 28873427 PMCID: PMC5584965 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM The human right atrium and sinoatrial node (SAN) anatomy is complex. Optical mapping experiments suggest that the SAN is functionally insulated from atrial tissue except at discrete SAN-atrial electrical junctions called SAN exit pathways, SEPs. Additionally, histological imaging suggests the presence of a secondary pacemaker close to the SAN. We hypothesise that a) an insulating border-SEP anatomical configuration is related to SAN arrhythmia; and b) a secondary pacemaker, the paranodal area, is an alternate pacemaker but accentuates tachycardia. A 3D electro-anatomical computational model was used to test these hypotheses. METHODS A detailed 3D human SAN electro-anatomical mathematical model was developed based on our previous anatomical reconstruction. Electrical activity was simulated using tissue specific variants of the Fenton-Karma action potential equations. Simulation experiments were designed to deploy this complex electro-anatomical system to assess the roles of border-SEPs and paranodal area by mimicking experimentally observed SAN arrhythmia. Robust and accurate numerical algorithms were implemented for solving the mono domain reaction-diffusion equation implicitly, calculating 3D filament traces, and computing dominant frequency among other quantitative measurements. RESULTS A centre to periphery gradient of increasing diffusion was sufficient to permit initiation of pacemaking at the centre of the 3D SAN. Re-entry within the SAN, micro re-entry, was possible by imposing significant SAN fibrosis in the presence of the insulating border. SEPs promoted the micro re-entry to generate more complex SAN-atrial tachycardia. Simulation of macro re-entry, i.e. re-entry around the SAN, was possible by inclusion of atrial fibrosis in the presence of the insulating border. The border shielded the SAN from atrial tachycardia. However, SAN micro-structure intercellular gap junctional coupling and the paranodal area contributed to prolonged atrial fibrillation. Finally, the micro-structure was found to be sufficient to explain shifts of leading pacemaker site location. CONCLUSIONS The simulations establish a relationship between anatomy and SAN electrical function. Microstructure, in the form of intercellular gap junction coupling, was found to regulate SAN function and arrhythmia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay R. Kharche
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Edward Vigmond
- University of Bordeaux, IMB, UMR 5251, Talence, France
- IHU Liryc, Electrophysiology and Heart Modeling Institute, Fondation Bordeaux Université, Pessac- Bordeaux, France
| | - Igor R. Efimov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Halina Dobrzynski
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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17
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Hanna P, Rajendran PS, Ajijola OA, Vaseghi M, Andrew Armour J, Ardell JL, Shivkumar K. Cardiac neuroanatomy - Imaging nerves to define functional control. Auton Neurosci 2017; 207:48-58. [PMID: 28802636 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2017.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 07/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The autonomic nervous system regulates normal cardiovascular function and plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease. Further understanding of the interplay between the autonomic nervous system and cardiovascular system holds promise for the development of neuroscience-based cardiovascular therapeutics. To this end, techniques to image myocardial innervation will help provide a basis for understanding the fundamental underpinnings of cardiac neural control. In this review, we detail the evolution of gross and microscopic anatomical studies for functional mapping of cardiac neuroanatomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Hanna
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pradeep S Rajendran
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology Program, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Olujimi A Ajijola
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marmar Vaseghi
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - J Andrew Armour
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jefrrey L Ardell
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology Program, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kalyanam Shivkumar
- University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology Program, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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18
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Syunyaev RA, Aliev RR. Computer simulations of reentrant activity in the rabbit sinoatrial node. Int J Numer Method Biomed Eng 2017; 33:e02792. [PMID: 27037518 DOI: 10.1002/cnm.2792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Revised: 03/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/19/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
With the aid of detailed computer simulations, we have estimated distributions of membrane potential and ionic currents in the core region of a sinoatrial node reentry. We observe reduced amplitudes of the measured quantities in the core; the core sizes for potential and currents did not always coincide. Simulations revealed that acetylcholine, when applied in the vicinity of unstable reentry, attracted the reentry to become the core and to stabilize its rotation. Anatomically detailed simulations of sinoatrial node and surrounding atrial tissue revealed that reentry always rotated around small strips of connective tissue. Acetylcholine superfusion over superior part of the sinoatrial node resulted in a drift of reentry in the cranial direction. Under the latter conditions, reentry may coexist with the pacemaker in the caudal part of the sinoatrial node. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman A Syunyaev
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, Russia
- Federal Scientific and Clinical Center for Federal Biomedical Agency of Russia, 115682, Moscow, Russia
| | - Rubin R Aliev
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700, Dolgoprudny, Moscow Region, Russia
- Federal Scientific and Clinical Center for Federal Biomedical Agency of Russia, 115682, Moscow, Russia
- ITEB RAN, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia
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Moghtadaei M, Jansen HJ, Mackasey M, Rafferty SA, Bogachev O, Sapp JL, Howlett SE, Rose RA. The impacts of age and frailty on heart rate and sinoatrial node function. J Physiol 2016; 594:7105-7126. [PMID: 27598221 DOI: 10.1113/jp272979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Sinoatrial node (SAN) function declines with age; however, not all individuals age at the same rate and health status can vary from fit to frail. Frailty was quantified in young and aged mice using a non-invasive frailty index so that the impacts of age and frailty on heart rate and SAN function could be assessed. SAN function was impaired in aged mice due to alterations in electrical conduction, changes in SAN action potential morphology and fibrosis in the SAN. Changes in SAN function, electrical conduction, action potential morphology and fibrosis were correlated with, and graded by, frailty. This study shows that mice of the same chronological age have quantifiable differences in health status that impact heart rate and SAN function and that these differences in health status can be identified using our frailty index. ABSTRACT Sinoatrial node (SAN) dysfunction increases with age, although not all older adults are affected in the same way. This is because people age at different rates and individuals of the same chronological age vary in health status from very fit to very frail. Our objective was to determine the impacts of age and frailty on heart rate (HR) and SAN function using a new model of frailty in ageing mice. Frailty, which was quantified in young and aged mice using a frailty index (FI), was greater in aged vs. young mice. Intracardiac electrophysiology demonstrated that HR was reduced whereas SAN recovery time (SNRT) was prolonged in aged mice; however, both parameters showed heteroscedasticity suggesting differences in health status among mice of similar chronological age. Consistent with this, HR and corrected SNRT were correlated with, and graded by, FI score. Optical mapping of the SAN demonstrated that conduction velocity (CV) was reduced in aged hearts in association with reductions in diastolic depolarization (DD) slope and action potential (AP) duration. In agreement with in vivo results, SAN CV, DD slope and AP durations all correlated with FI score. Finally, SAN dysfunction in aged mice was associated with increased interstitial fibrosis and alterations in expression of matrix metalloproteinases, which also correlated with frailty. These findings demonstrate that age-related SAN dysfunction occurs in association with electrical and structural remodelling and that frailty is a critical determinant of health status of similarly aged animals that correlates with changes in HR and SAN function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Moghtadaei
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Hailey J Jansen
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Martin Mackasey
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Sara A Rafferty
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Oleg Bogachev
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - John L Sapp
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Division of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Susan E Howlett
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Robert A Rose
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Kang C, Brennan JA, Kuzmiak-Glancy S, Garrott KE, Kay MW, Efimov IR. Technical advances in studying cardiac electrophysiology - Role of rabbit models. Prog Biophys Mol Biol 2016; 121:97-109. [PMID: 27210306 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2016.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular research has made a major contribution to an unprecedented 10 year increase in life expectancy during the last 50 years: most of this increase due to a decline in mortality from heart disease and stroke. The majority of the basic cardiovascular science discoveries, which have led to this impressive extension of human life, came from investigations conducted in various small and large animal models, ranging from mouse to pig. The small animal models are currently popular because they are amenable to genetic engineering and are relatively inexpensive. The large animal models are favored at the translational stage of the investigation, as they are anatomically and physiologically more proximal to humans, and can be implanted with various devices; however, they are expensive and less amenable to genetic manipulations. With the advent of CRISPR genetic engineering technology and the advances in implantable bioelectronics, the large animal models will continue to advance. The rabbit model is particularly poised to become one of the most popular among the animal models that recapitulate human heart diseases. Here we review an array of the rabbit models of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, as well as a range of the imaging and device technologies enabling these investigations.
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Inokaitis H, Pauziene N, Rysevaite-kyguoliene K, Pauza DH. Innervation of sinoatrial nodal cells in the rabbit. Ann Anat 2016; 205:113-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2016.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Revised: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Moghtadaei M, Polina I, Rose RA. Electrophysiological effects of natriuretic peptides in the heart are mediated by multiple receptor subtypes. Progress in Biophysics and Molecular Biology 2016; 120:37-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2015.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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23
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Torrente AG, Zhang R, Zaini A, Giani JF, Kang J, Lamp ST, Philipson KD, Goldhaber JI. Burst pacemaker activity of the sinoatrial node in sodium-calcium exchanger knockout mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:9769-74. [PMID: 26195795 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1505670112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In sinoatrial node (SAN) cells, electrogenic sodium-calcium exchange (NCX) is the dominant calcium (Ca) efflux mechanism. However, the role of NCX in the generation of SAN automaticity is controversial. To investigate the contribution of NCX to pacemaking in the SAN, we performed optical voltage mapping and high-speed 2D laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) of Ca dynamics in an ex vivo intact SAN/atrial tissue preparation from atrial-specific NCX knockout (KO) mice. These mice lack P waves on electrocardiograms, and isolated NCX KO SAN cells are quiescent. Voltage mapping revealed disorganized and arrhythmic depolarizations within the NCX KO SAN that failed to propagate into the atria. LSCM revealed intermittent bursts of Ca transients. Bursts were accompanied by rising diastolic Ca, culminating in long pauses dominated by Ca waves. The L-type Ca channel agonist BayK8644 reduced the rate of Ca transients and inhibited burst generation in the NCX KO SAN whereas the Ca buffer 1,2-Bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (acetoxymethyl ester) (BAPTA AM) did the opposite. These results suggest that cellular Ca accumulation hinders spontaneous depolarization in the NCX KO SAN, possibly by inhibiting L-type Ca currents. The funny current (If) blocker ivabradine also suppressed NCX KO SAN automaticity. We conclude that pacemaker activity is present in the NCX KO SAN, generated by a mechanism that depends upon If. However, the absence of NCX-mediated depolarization in combination with impaired Ca efflux results in intermittent bursts of pacemaker activity, reminiscent of human sinus node dysfunction and "tachy-brady" syndrome.
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Krishnaswamy PS, Egom EE, Moghtadaei M, Jansen HJ, Azer J, Bogachev O, Mackasey M, Robbins C, Rose RA. Altered parasympathetic nervous system regulation of the sinoatrial node in Akita diabetic mice. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2015; 82:125-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2015.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2014] [Revised: 02/21/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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25
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Egom EE, Vella K, Hua R, Jansen HJ, Moghtadaei M, Polina I, Bogachev O, Hurnik R, Mackasey M, Rafferty S, Ray G, Rose RA. Impaired sinoatrial node function and increased susceptibility to atrial fibrillation in mice lacking natriuretic peptide receptor C. J Physiol 2015; 593:1127-46. [PMID: 25641115 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2014.283135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 12/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Natriuretic peptides (NPs) are critical regulators of the cardiovascular system that are currently viewed as possible therapeutic targets for the treatment of heart disease. Recent work demonstrates potent NP effects on cardiac electrophysiology, including in the sinoatrial node (SAN) and atria. NPs elicit their effects via three NP receptors (NPR-A, NPR-B and NPR-C). Among these receptors, NPR-C is poorly understood. Accordingly, the goal of this study was to determine the effects of NPR-C ablation on cardiac structure and arrhythmogenesis. Cardiac structure and function were assessed in wild-type (NPR-C(+/+)) and NPR-C knockout (NPR-C(-/-)) mice using echocardiography, intracardiac programmed stimulation, patch clamping, high-resolution optical mapping, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and histology. These studies demonstrate that NPR-C(-/-) mice display SAN dysfunction, as indicated by a prolongation (30%) of corrected SAN recovery time, as well as an increased susceptibility to atrial fibrillation (6% in NPR-C(+/+) vs. 47% in NPR-C(-/-)). There were no differences in SAN or atrial action potential morphology in NPR-C(-/-) mice; however, increased atrial arrhythmogenesis in NPR-C(-/-) mice was associated with reductions in SAN (20%) and atrial (15%) conduction velocity, as well as increases in expression and deposition of collagen in the atrial myocardium. No differences were seen in ventricular arrhythmogenesis or fibrosis in NPR-C(-/-) mice. This study demonstrates that loss of NPR-C results in SAN dysfunction and increased susceptibility to atrial arrhythmias in association with structural remodelling and fibrosis in the atrial myocardium. These findings indicate a critical protective role for NPR-C in the heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel E Egom
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Li J, Inada S, Schneider JE, Zhang H, Dobrzynski H, Boyett MR. Three-dimensional computer model of the right atrium including the sinoatrial and atrioventricular nodes predicts classical nodal behaviours. PLoS One 2014; 9:e112547. [PMID: 25380074 PMCID: PMC4224508 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0112547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Accepted: 10/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to develop a three-dimensional (3D) anatomically-detailed model of the rabbit right atrium containing the sinoatrial and atrioventricular nodes to study the electrophysiology of the nodes. A model was generated based on 3D images of a rabbit heart (atria and part of ventricles), obtained using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging. Segmentation was carried out semi-manually. A 3D right atrium array model (∼3.16 million elements), including eighteen objects, was constructed. For description of cellular electrophysiology, the Rogers-modified FitzHugh-Nagumo model was further modified to allow control of the major characteristics of the action potential with relatively low computational resource requirements. Model parameters were chosen to simulate the action potentials in the sinoatrial node, atrial muscle, inferior nodal extension and penetrating bundle. The block zone was simulated as passive tissue. The sinoatrial node, crista terminalis, main branch and roof bundle were considered as anisotropic. We have simulated normal and abnormal electrophysiology of the two nodes. In accordance with experimental findings: (i) during sinus rhythm, conduction occurs down the interatrial septum and into the atrioventricular node via the fast pathway (conduction down the crista terminalis and into the atrioventricular node via the slow pathway is slower); (ii) during atrial fibrillation, the sinoatrial node is protected from overdrive by its long refractory period; and (iii) during atrial fibrillation, the atrioventricular node reduces the frequency of action potentials reaching the ventricles. The model is able to simulate ventricular echo beats. In summary, a 3D anatomical model of the right atrium containing the cardiac conduction system is able to simulate a wide range of classical nodal behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jue Li
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester, Core Technology Facility, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Shin Inada
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester, Core Technology Facility, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jurgen E. Schneider
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester, Core Technology Facility, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Henggui Zhang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester, Core Technology Facility, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Halina Dobrzynski
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester, Core Technology Facility, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R. Boyett
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester, Core Technology Facility, Manchester, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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27
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Inada S, Zhang H, Tellez JO, Shibata N, Nakazawa K, Kamiya K, Kodama I, Mitsui K, Dobrzynski H, Boyett MR, Honjo H. Importance of gradients in membrane properties and electrical coupling in sinoatrial node pacing. PLoS One 2014; 9:e94565. [PMID: 24759974 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The sinoatrial node (SAN) is heterogeneous in terms of cell size, ion channels, current densities, connexins and electrical coupling. For example, Nav1.5 (responsible for INa) and Cx43 (responsible for electrical coupling) are absent from the centre of the SAN (normally the leading pacemaker site), but present in the periphery (at SAN-atrial muscle junction). To test whether the heterogeneity is important for the functioning of the SAN, one- and two-dimensional models of the SAN and surrounding atrial muscle were created. Normal functioning of the SAN (in terms of cycle length, position of leading pacemaker site, conduction times, activation and repolarization sequences and space constants) was observed when, from the centre to the periphery, (i) cell characteristics (cell size and ionic current densities) were changed in a gradient fashion from a central-type (lacking INa) to a peripheral-type (possessing INa) and (ii) coupling conductance was increased in a gradient fashion. We conclude that the heterogeneous nature of the node is important for its normal functioning. The presence of Nav1.5 and Cx43 in the periphery may be essential for the node to be able to drive the atrial muscle: Nav1.5 provides the necessary depolarizing current and Cx43 delivers it to the atrial muscle.
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28
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Azer J, Hua R, Krishnaswamy PS, Rose RA. Effects of natriuretic peptides on electrical conduction in the sinoatrial node and atrial myocardium of the heart. J Physiol 2013; 592:1025-45. [PMID: 24344164 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2013.265405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Natriuretic peptides, including B-type and C-type natriuretic peptide (BNP and CNP), are powerful regulators of the cardiovascular system; however, their electrophysiological effects in the heart, particularly in the sinoatrial node (SAN), are incompletely understood. We have used high-resolution optical mapping to measure the effects of BNP and CNP, and the roles of natriuretic peptide receptors (NPR-A, NPR-B and NPR-C), on electrical conduction within the SAN and atrial myocardium. In basal conditions BNP and CNP (50-500 nm) increased conduction velocity (CV) within the SAN by ∼30% at the high dose and shifted the initial exit site superiorly. These effects sped conduction from the SAN to the surrounding atrial myocardium and were mediated by the NPR-A and NPR-B receptors. In the presence of isoproterenol (1 μm) the NPR-C receptor made a major contribution to the effects of BNP and CNP in the heart. In these conditions BNP, CNP and the NPR-C agonist cANF each decreased SAN CV and shifted the initial exit site inferiorly. The effects of cANF (30% reduction) were larger than BNP or CNP (∼15% reduction), indicating that BNP and CNP activate multiple natriuretic peptide receptors. In support of this, the inhibitory effects of BNP were absent in NPR-C knockout mice, where BNP instead elicited a further increase (∼25%) in CV. Measurements in externally paced atrial preparations demonstrate that the effects of natriuretic peptides on CV are partially independent of changes in cycle length. These data provide detailed novel insight into the complex effects of natriuretic peptides and their receptors on electrical conduction in the heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Azer
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Sir Charles Tupper Medical Building - Room 4J, 5850 College Street, PO Box 15000, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, B3H 4R2.
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29
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Zarzoso M, Rysevaite K, Milstein ML, Calvo CJ, Kean AC, Atienza F, Pauza DH, Jalife J, Noujaim SF. Nerves projecting from the intrinsic cardiac ganglia of the pulmonary veins modulate sinoatrial node pacemaker function. Cardiovasc Res 2013; 99:566-75. [PMID: 23559611 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvt081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Pulmonary vein ganglia (PVG) are targets for atrial fibrillation ablation. However, the functional relevance of PVG to the normal heart rhythm remains unclear. Our aim was to investigate whether PVG can modulate sinoatrial node (SAN) function. METHODS AND RESULTS Forty-nine C57BL and seven Connexin40+/EGFP mice were studied. We used tyrosine-hydroxylase (TH) and choline-acetyltransferase immunofluorescence labelling to characterize adrenergic and cholinergic neural elements. PVG projected postganglionic nerves to the SAN, which entered the SAN as an extensive, mesh-like neural network. PVG neurones were adrenergic, cholinergic, and biphenotypic. Histochemical characterization of two human embryonic hearts showed similarities between mouse and human neuroanatomy: direct neural communications between PVG and SAN. In Langendorff perfused mouse hearts, PVG were stimulated using 200-2000 ms trains of pulses (300 μs, 400 µA, 200 Hz). PVG stimulation caused an initial heart rate (HR) slowing (36 ± 9%) followed by acceleration. PVG stimulation in the presence of propranolol caused HR slowing (43 ± 13%) that was sustained over 20 beats. PVG stimulation with atropine progressively increased HR. Time-course effects were enhanced with 1000 and 2000 ms trains (P < 0.05 vs. 200 ms). In optical mapping, PVG stimulation shifted the origin of SAN discharges. In five paroxysmal AF patients undergoing pulmonary vein ablation, application of radiofrequency energy to the PVG area during sinus rhythm produced a decrease in HR similar to that observed in isolated mouse hearts. CONCLUSION PVG have functional and anatomical biphenotypic characteristics. They can have significant effects on the electrophysiological control of the SAN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Zarzoso
- Center for Arrhythmia Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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30
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Lou Q, Glukhov AV, Hansen B, Hage L, Vargas-Pinto P, Billman GE, Carnes CA, Fedorov VV. Tachy-brady arrhythmias: the critical role of adenosine-induced sinoatrial conduction block in post-tachycardia pauses. Heart Rhythm 2012; 10:110-8. [PMID: 22985657 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2012.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with sinoatrial nodal (SAN) dysfunction, atrial pauses lasting several seconds may follow rapid atrial pacing or paroxysmal tachycardia (tachy-brady arrhythmias). Clinical studies suggest that adenosine may play an important role in SAN dysfunction, but the mechanism remains unclear. OBJECTIVE To define the mechanism of SAN dysfunction induced by the combination of adenosine and tachycardia. METHODS We studied the mechanism of SAN dysfunction produced by a combination of adenosine and rapid atrial pacing in isolated coronary-perfused canine atrial preparations by using high-resolution optical mapping (n = 9). Sinus cycle length and sinoatrial conduction time (SACT) were measured during adenosine (1-100 μM) and DPCPX (1 μM; A1 receptor antagonist; n = 7) perfusion. Sinoatrial node recovery time was measured after 1 minute of "slow" pacing (3.3 Hz) or tachypacing (7-9 Hz). RESULTS Adenosine significantly increased sinus cycle length (477 ± 62 ms vs 778 ± 114 ms; P<.01) and SACT during sinus rhythm (41 ± 11 ms vs 86 ± 16 ms; P<.01) in a dose-dependent manner. Adenosine dramatically affected SACT of the first SAN beat after tachypacing (41 ± 5 ms vs 221 ± 98 ms; P<.01). Moreover, at high concentrations of adenosine (10-100 μM), termination of tachypacing or atrial flutter/fibrillation produced atrial pauses of 4.2 ± 3.4 seconds (n = 5) owing to conduction block between the SAN and the atria, despite a stable SAN intrinsic rate. Conduction block was preferentially related to depressed excitability in SAN conduction pathways. Adenosine-induced changes were reversible on washout or DPCPX treatment. CONCLUSIONS These data directly demonstrate that adenosine contributes to post-tachycardia atrial pauses through SAN exit block rather than slowed pacemaker automaticity. Thus, these data suggest an important modulatory role of adenosine in tachy-brady syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Lou
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210-1218, USA
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31
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Abstract
Recently published optical mapping studies of larger mammals, including humans, have identified functionally discrete sinoatrial exit pathways of activation. This is in line with earlier mapping studies of the dog and the human but in contrast with findings in the mouse and the rabbit, wherein a propagation wave front pattern of activation has been described. It underpins the complex three-dimensional (3D) organization of the cardiac pacemaking and conduction system in larger species, wherein sinoatrial and atrioventricular nodal physiologies both demonstrate identifiable activation pathways, which coincide with anatomic landmarks and histologic architecture, so that in addition to muscle fiber orientation and cell coupling, these intrinsic factors act to determine excitation pathways. This complex 3D organization increases the effect of source-to-sink mismatch both by greater variability in the space constant of tissue and by the 3D projection of this effect in all directions. Mathematical modeling provides a means to study these interactions, and newer models should incorporate these additional factors and their effect into the 3D structure of large mammal physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaidou T
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St Louis, USA,Faculty of Medical & Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Aslanidi OV
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, King's College London, London, UK,School of Physics & Astronomy, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Zhang H
- School of Physics & Astronomy, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Efimov IR
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St Louis, USA
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32
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Ambrosi CM, Fedorov VV, Schuessler RB, Rollins AM, Efimov IR. Quantification of fiber orientation in the canine atrial pacemaker complex using optical coherence tomography. J Biomed Opt 2012; 17:071309. [PMID: 22894470 PMCID: PMC3543159 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.17.7.071309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2011] [Revised: 03/06/2012] [Accepted: 03/08/2012] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The atrial pacemaker complex is responsible for the initiation and early propagation of cardiac impulses. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), a nondestructive imaging modality with spatial resolutions of ∼1 to 15 μm, can be used to identify unique fiber orientation patterns in this region of the heart. Functionally characterized canine sinoatrial nodes (SAN) (n=7) were imaged using OCT up to ∼1 mm below the endocardial tissue surface. OCT images were directly compared to their corresponding histological sections. Fiber orientation patterns unique to the crista terminalis (CT), SAN, and surrounding atrial myocardium were identified with dominant average fiber angles of 89 ± 12 deg, 110 ± 16 deg, and 95 ± 35 deg, respectively. Both the CT and surrounding atrial myocardium displayed predominantly unidirectionally based fiber orientation patterns within each specimen, whereas the SAN displayed an increased amount of fiber disarray manifested quantitatively as a significantly greater standard deviation in fiber angle distribution within specimens [33 ± 7 deg versus 23 ± 5 deg, atrium (p=0.02); 18 ± 3 deg, CT (p=0.0003)]. We also identified unique, local patterns of fiber orientation specific to the functionally characterized block zone. We demonstrate the ability of OCT in detecting components of the atrial pacemaker complex which are intimately involved in both normal and abnormal cardiac conduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina M. Ambrosi
- Washington University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 1 Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1097, St. Louis, Missouri 63130
| | - Vadim V. Fedorov
- Washington University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 1 Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1097, St. Louis, Missouri 63130
| | - Richard B. Schuessler
- Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Andrew M. Rollins
- Case Western Reserve University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Igor R. Efimov
- Washington University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 1 Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1097, St. Louis, Missouri 63130
- Address all correspondence to: Igor R. Efimov, Washington University, 1 Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1097, St. Louis, Missouri 63130. Tel: +(314) 935-8612; Fax: (314) 935-8377; E-mail:
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Wu J, Zhang Y, Zhang X, Cheng L, Lammers WJ, Grace AA, Fraser JA, Zhang H, Huang CLH, Lei M. Altered sinoatrial node function and intra-atrial conduction in murine gain-of-function Scn5a+/ΔKPQ hearts suggest an overlap syndrome. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2012; 302:H1510-23. [PMID: 22287583 PMCID: PMC3330789 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00357.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Mutations in SCN5A, the gene encoding the pore-forming subunit of cardiac Na+ channels, cause a spectrum of arrhythmic syndromes. Of these, sinoatrial node (SAN) dysfunction occurs in patients with both loss- and gain-of-function SCN5A mutations. We explored for corresponding alterations in SAN function and intracardiac conduction and clarified possible mechanisms underlying these in an established mouse long QT syndrome type 3 model carrying a mutation equivalent to human SCN5A-ΔKPQ. Electrophysiological characterizations of SAN function in living animals and in vitro sinoatrial preparations were compared with cellular SAN and two-dimensional tissue models exploring the consequences of Scn5a+/ΔKPQ mutations. Scn5a+/ΔKPQ mice showed prolonged electrocardiographic QT and corrected QT intervals confirming long QT phenotypes. They showed frequent episodes of sinus bradycardia, sinus pause/arrest, and significantly longer sinus node recovery times, suggesting compromised pacemaker activity compared with wild-type mice. Electrocardiographic waveforms suggested depressed intra-atrial, atrioventricular node, and intraventricular conduction in Scn5a+/ΔKPQ mice. Isolated Scn5a+/ΔKPQ sinoatrial preparations similarly showed lower mean intrinsic heart rates and overall slower conduction through the SAN to the surrounding atrium than did wild-type preparations. Computer simulations of both single SAN cells as well as two-dimensional SAN-atrial models could reproduce the experimental observations of impaired pacemaker and sinoatrial conduction in terms of changes produced by both augmented tail and reduced total Na+ currents, respectively. In conclusion, the gain-of-function long QT syndrome type 3 murine Scn5a+/ΔKPQ cardiac system, in overlap with corresponding features reported in loss-of-function Na+ channel mutations, shows compromised SAN pacemaker and conduction function explicable in modeling studies through a combination of augmented tail and reduced peak Na+ currents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Union Hospital, Huazhong University of Sciences and Technology, Wuhan, Peoples' Republic of China
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Fedorov VV, Glukhov AV, Chang R. Conduction barriers and pathways of the sinoatrial pacemaker complex: their role in normal rhythm and atrial arrhythmias. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2012; 302:H1773-83. [PMID: 22268110 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00892.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Since Keith and Flack's anatomical discovery of the sinoatrial node (SAN), the primary pacemaker of the heart, the question of how such a small SAN structure can pace the entire heart has remained for a large part unanswered. Recent advances in optical mapping technology have made it possible to unambiguously resolve the origin of excitation and conduction within the animal and human SAN. The combination of high-resolution optical mapping and histological structural analysis reveals that the canine and human SANs are functionally insulated from the surrounding atrial myocardium, except for several critical conduction pathways. Indeed, the SAN as a leading pacemaker requires anatomical (fibrosis, fat, and blood vessels) and/or functional barriers (paucity of connexins) to protect it from the hyperpolarizing influence of the surrounding atrium. The presence of conduction barriers and pathways may help explain how a small cluster of pacemaker cells in the SAN pacemaker complex manages to depolarize different, widely distributed areas of the right atria as evidenced functionally by exit points and breakthroughs. The autonomic nervous system and humoral factors can further regulate conduction through these pathways, affecting pacemaker automaticity and ultimately heart rate. Moreover, the conduction barriers and multiple pathways can form substrates for reentrant activity and thus lead to atrial flutter and fibrillation. This review aims to provide new insight into the function of the SAN pacemaker complex and the interaction between the atrial pacemakers and the surrounding atrial myocardium not only in animal models but also human hearts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vadim V Fedorov
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, and Dorothy M. Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio 43210-1218, USA.
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Abstract
Sinoatrial node is responsible for the origin of the wave of excitation, which spreads throughout the heart and orchestrates cardiac contraction via calcium-mediated excitation-contraction coupling. P wave represents the spread of excitation in the atria. It is well known that the autonomic nervous system controls the heart rate by dynamically altering both cellular ionic fluxes and the anatomical location of the leading pacemaker. In this study, we used isolated rabbit right atria and mathematical model of the pacemaker region of the rabbit heart. Application of isoproterenol resulted in dose-dependent acceleration of the heart rate and superior shift of the leading pacemaker. In the mathematical model, such behavior could be reproduced by a gradient of expression in β1-adrenergic receptors along the superior-inferior axis. Application of acetylcholine resulted in preferentially inferior shift of pacemaker and slowing of the heart rate. The mathematical model reproduced this behavior with imposing a gradient of expression of acetylcholine-sensitive potassium channel. We conclude that anatomical shift of the leading pacemaker in the rabbit heart could be achieved through gradient of expression of β1-adrenergic receptors and I(K,ACh).
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Muñoz MA, Kaur J, Vigmond EJ. Onset of atrial arrhythmias elicited by autonomic modulation of rabbit sinoatrial node activity: a modeling study. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2011; 301:H1974-83. [PMID: 21856904 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00059.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal modulation of the sinoatrial node (SAN) plays a crucial role in the initiation and maintenance of atrial arrhythmias (AF), although the exact mechanisms remain unclear. We used a computer model of a rabbit right atrium (RA) with a heterogeneous SAN and detailed ionic current descriptions for atrial and SAN myocytes to explore reentry initiation associated with autonomic activity. Heterogeneous acetylcholine (ACh)-dependent ionic responses along with L-type Ca current (I(Ca,L)) upregulation were incorporated in the SAN only. During control, activation was typical with the leading pacemaker site located close to the superior vena cava or the intercaval region. With cholinergic stimulation, activation patterns frequently included caudal shifts of the leading pacemaker site and occasional double breakouts. The model became increasingly arrhythmogenic for the ACh concentration >20 nM and for large I(Ca,L) conductance. Reentries obtained included counterclockwise rotors in the free wall, clockwise reentry circulating between the SAN and free wall, and typical flutter. The SAN was the cause of reentry with a common leading sequence of events: a bradycardic beat with shifting in the caudal direction, followed by a premature beat or unidirectional block within the SAN. Electrotonic loading, and not just overdrive pacing, squelches competing pacemaker sites in the SAN. Cholinergic stimulation concomitant with I(Ca,L) upregulation shifts leading pacemaker site and can lead to reentry. A heterogeneous response to autonomic innervation, a large myocardial load, and an extensive SAN in the intercaval region are required for neurally induced SAN-triggered reentry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio A Muñoz
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Fedorov VV, Ambrosi CM, Kostecki G, Hucker WJ, Glukhov AV, Wuskell JP, Loew LM, Moazami N, Efimov IR. Anatomic localization and autonomic modulation of atrioventricular junctional rhythm in failing human hearts. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2011; 4:515-25. [PMID: 21646375 DOI: 10.1161/circep.111.962258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The structure-function relationship in the atrioventricular junction (AVJ) of various animal species has been investigated in detail; however, less is known about the human AVJ. In this study, we performed high-resolution optical mapping of the human AVJ (n = 6) to define its pacemaker properties and response to autonomic stimulation. METHODS AND RESULTS Isolated, coronary-perfused AVJ preparations from failing human hearts (n = 6, 53 ± 6 years) were optically mapped using the near-infrared, voltage-sensitive dye, di-4-ANBDQBS, with isoproterenol (1 μmol/L) and acetylcholine (1 μmol/L). An algorithm detecting multiple components of optical action potentials was used to reconstruct multilayered intramural AVJ activation and to identify specialized slow and fast conduction pathways (SP and FP). The anatomic origin and propagation of pacemaker activity was verified by histology. Spontaneous AVJ rhythms of 29 ± 11 bpm (n = 6) originated in the nodal-His region (n = 3) and/or the proximal His bundle (n = 4). Isoproterenol accelerated the AVJ rhythm to 69 ± 12 bpm (n = 5); shifted the leading pacemaker to the transitional cell regions near the FP and SP (n = 4) and/or coronary sinus (n = 2); and triggered reentrant arrhythmias (n = 2). Acetylcholine (n = 4) decreased the AVJ rhythm to 18 ± 4 bpm; slowed FP/SP conduction leading to block between the AVJ and atrium; and shifted the pacemaker to either the transitional cell region or the nodal-His region (bifocal activation). CONCLUSIONS We have demonstrated that the AVJ pacemaker in failing human hearts is located in the nodal-His region or His bundle regions and can be modified with autonomic stimulation. Moreover, we found that both the FP and SP are involved in anterograde and retrograde conduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vadim V Fedorov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St Louis, MO, USA
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Fedorov VV, Glukhov AV, Chang R, Kostecki G, Aferol H, Hucker WJ, Wuskell JP, Loew LM, Schuessler RB, Moazami N, Efimov IR. Optical mapping of the isolated coronary-perfused human sinus node. J Am Coll Cardiol 2010; 56:1386-94. [PMID: 20946995 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2010.03.098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2009] [Revised: 02/25/2010] [Accepted: 03/23/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We sought to confirm our hypothesis that the human sinoatrial node (SAN) is functionally insulated from the surrounding atrial myocardium except for several exit pathways that electrically bridge the nodal tissue and atrial myocardium. BACKGROUND The site of origin and pattern of excitation within the human SAN has not been directly mapped. METHODS The SAN was optically mapped in coronary-perfused preparations from nonfailing human hearts (n = 4, age 54 ± 15 years) using the dye Di-4-ANBDQBS and blebbistatin. The SAN 3-dimensional structure was reconstructed using histology. RESULTS Optical recordings from the SAN had diastolic depolarization and multiple upstroke components, which corresponded to the separate excitations of the SAN and atrial layers. Excitation originated in the middle of the SAN (66 ± 17 beats/min), and then spread slowly (1 to 18 cm/s) and anisotropically. After a 82 ± 17 ms conduction delay within the SAN, the atrial myocardium was excited via superior, middle, and/or inferior sinoatrial conduction pathways. Atrial excitation was initiated 9.4 ± 4.2 mm from the leading pacemaker site. The oval 14.3 ± 1.5 mm × 6.7 ± 1.6 mm × 1.0 ± 0.2 mm SAN structure was functionally insulated from the atrium by connective tissue, fat, and coronary arteries, except for these pathways. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrated for the first time, to our knowledge, the location of the leading SAN pacemaker site, the pattern of excitation within the human SAN, and the conduction pathways into the right atrium. The existence of these pathways explains why, even during normal sinus rhythm, atrial breakthroughs could arise from a region parallel to the crista terminalis that is significantly larger (26.1 ± 7.9 mm) than the area of the anatomically defined SAN.
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Tapilina SV, Abramochkin DV, Sukhova GS, Rosenshtraukh LV. Cholinergic inexcitability in the sinoatrial node of the mouse. Dokl Biol Sci 2010; 435:393-397. [PMID: 21221891 DOI: 10.1134/s0012496610060062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
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Fedorov VV, Chang R, Glukhov AV, Kostecki G, Janks D, Schuessler RB, Efimov IR. Complex interactions between the sinoatrial node and atrium during reentrant arrhythmias in the canine heart. Circulation 2010; 122:782-9. [PMID: 20697021 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.109.935288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies implicate the sinoatrial node (SAN) as a participant in atrial arrhythmias, including atrial flutter (AFL) and atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the direct role of the SAN has never been described. METHODS AND RESULTS The SAN was optically mapped in coronary perfused preparations from normal canine hearts (n=17). Optical action potentials were recorded during spontaneous rhythm, overdrive atrial pacing, and AF/AFL induced by acetylcholine (ACh; 0.3 to 3 micromol/L) and/or isoproterenol (Iso; 0.2 to 1 micromol/L). An optical action potential multiple component algorithm and dominant frequency analysis were used to reconstruct SAN activation and to identify specialized sinoatrial conduction pathways. Both ACh and Iso facilitated pacing-induced AF/AFL by shortening atrial repolarization. The entire SAN structure created a substrate for macroreentry with 9.6+/-1.7 Hz (69 episodes in all preparations). Atrial excitation waves could enter the SAN through the sinoatrial conduction pathways and overdrive suppress the node. The sinoatrial conduction pathways acted as a filter for atrial waves by slowing conduction and creating entrance block. ACh/Iso modulated filtering properties of the sinoatrial conduction pathways by increasing/decreasing the degree of the entrance block, respectively. Thus, the SAN could beat independently from AF/AFL reentrant activity during ACh (49+/-39%) and ACh/Iso (62+/-25%) (P=0.38). Without ACh, the AF/AFL waves captured the SAN and overdrive suppressed it. Spontaneous SAN activity could terminate or convert AFL to AF during cholinergic withdrawal. CONCLUSIONS The specialized structure of the SAN can be a substrate for AF/AFL. Cholinergic stimulation not only can slow sinus rhythm and facilitate AF/AFL but also protects the intrinsic SAN function from the fast AF/AFL rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vadim V Fedorov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, Campus Box 1097, 1 Brookings Dr, St Louis, MO 63130-4899, USA.
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Glukhov AV, Fedorov VV, Anderson ME, Mohler PJ, Efimov IR. Functional anatomy of the murine sinus node: high-resolution optical mapping of ankyrin-B heterozygous mice. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2010; 299:H482-91. [PMID: 20525877 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00756.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The mouse is widely used as a genetic platform to investigate the molecular mechanisms of sinoatrial node (SAN) pacemaking. Recently, it has been shown that isolated SAN cells from the ankyrin-B (AnkB)-deficient mice display severe pacemaking dysfunction similar to individuals harboring ankyrin 2 allele variants. However, these results have been limited to isolated SAN cells only and thus did not evaluate the functional anatomy of the widely distributed atrial pacemaker complex (e.g., the dynamic interaction of primary and subsidiary pacemakers). We studied pacemaker function in an intact mouse atrial preparation, which included the SAN, atrioventricular junction (AVJ), and both atria, excluding most of the septum. Optical mapping with a voltage-sensitive dye and CMOS camera ULTIMA-L was used to map spontaneous pacemaker activity with or without autonomic modulation in wild-type (WT) mice (n = 7) and in the AnkB heterozygous (AnkB(+/-); n = 9) mouse model of human SAN disease. In WT mice, isoproterenol accelerated the SAN rate (for 10 microM: from 325 + or - 19 to 510 + or - 33 beat/min, P < 0.01) and shifted the leading pacemaker site superiorly by 0.77 + or - 0.11 mm within the SAN. ACh decreased the SAN rate (from 333 + or - 26 to 96 + or - 22 beats/min, P < 0.01) and shifted the leading pacemaker either inferiorly within the SAN or abruptly toward the AVJ. After isoproterenol, AnkB(+/-) mice exhibited a larger beat-to-beat variability (SD of a cycle length: 13.4 + or - 3.6 vs. 2.5 + or - 0.8 ms, P < 0.01 vs. WT mice), disorganized shift of the leading pacemaker (2.04 + or - 0.37 mm, P < 0.05 vs. WT mice), and competing multiple pacemakers, resulting in beat-to-beat changes of the leading pacemaker location site between the SAN and AVJ regions. Notably, AnkB(+/-) mice also displayed a reduced sensitivity to ACh (rate slowing by 32 + or - 12% vs. 67 + or - 4%, P < 0.05, AnkB(+/-) vs. WT mice, respectively). In conclusion, AnkB dysfunction results in SAN abnormalities in an isolated mouse atria preparation. While AnkB dysfunction dramatically alters single SAN cell function, the mechanisms underlying cardiac automaticity are clearly complex, and phenotypes may be partially compensated by the dynamic interaction of cells within the pacemaker complex. These new findings highlight the importance of the functional anatomy of the entire atrial distributed pacemaker complex, including the SAN and AVJ, and clearly demonstrate the role of AnkB in cardiac automaticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey V Glukhov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington Univ. in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
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Abramochkin DV, Kuzmin VS, Sukhova GS, Rosenshtraukh LV. Investigation of pacemaker shift in the rabbit sinoatrial node using the optical mapping technique. Biophysics (Nagoya-shi) 2010. [DOI: 10.1134/s0006350910030152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Abstract
Historically, milestones in science are usually associated with methodological breakthroughs. Likewise, the advent of electrocardiography, microelectrode recordings and more recently optical mapping have ushered in new periods of significance of advancement in elucidating basic mechanisms in cardiac electrophysiology. As with any novel technique, however, data interpretation is challenging and should be approached with caution, as it cannot be simply extrapolated from previously used methodologies and with experience and time eventually becomes validated. A good example of this is the use of optical mapping in the sinoatrial node (SAN): when microelectrode and optical recordings are obtained from the same site in myocardium, significantly different results may be noted with respect to signal morphology and as a result have to be interpreted by a different set of principles. Given the rapid spread of the use of optical mapping, careful evaluation must be made in terms of methodology with respect to interpretation of data gathered by optical sensors from fluorescent potential-sensitive dyes. Different interpretations of experimental data may lead to different mechanistic conclusions. This review attempts to address the origin and interpretation of the "double component" morphology in the optical action potentials obtained from the SAN region. One view is that these 2 components represent distinctive signals from the SAN and atrial cells and can be fully separated with signal processing. A second view is that the first component preceding the phase 0 activation represents the membrane currents and intracellular calcium transients induced diastolic depolarization from the SAN. Although the consensus from both groups is that ionic mechanisms, namely the joint action of the membrane and calcium automaticity, are important in the SAN function, it is unresolved whether the double-component originates from the recording methodology or represents the underlying physiology. This overview aims to advance a common understanding of the basic principles of optical mapping in complex 3D anatomic structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor R Efimov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, One Brookings Dr, St Louis, MO 63130, USA.
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Abramochkin DV, Kuzmin VS, Sukhova GS, Rosenshtraukh LV. Cholinergic modulation of activation sequence in the atrial myocardium of non-mammalian vertebrates. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2010; 155:231-6. [PMID: 19900573 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2009.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2009] [Revised: 11/01/2009] [Accepted: 11/02/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Cholinergic changes of electric activity were studied in isolated atrium preparations from fishes (cod and carp), amphibians (frog) and reptilians (lizard) using the microelectrode technique and high-resolution optical mapping. Perfusion of isolated atrium with acetylcholine (10(-6)-5.10(-5) M) caused gradual suppression of action potential generation and, eventually, completely blocked the excitation in a part of the preparation. Other regions of atrium, situated close to the sinoatrial and atrioventricular junctions, remained excitable. Such cholinergic suppression of electric activity was observed in the atrial myocardium of frog and in both fish species, but not in reptilians. Ba(2+) (10(-4) M), which blocks the acetylcholine-dependent potassium current (I(KACh)), prevented cholinergic reduction of action potential amplitude. In several preparations of frog atrium, cholinergic suppression of excitation coincided with episodes of atrial fibrillation. We conclude that the phenomenon of cholinergic suppression of electric activity is typical for atria of fishes and amphibians. It is likely to be caused by I(KACh) activation and may be important for initiation of atrial arrhythmias.
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Abramochkin DV, Kuzmin VS, Sukhova GS, Rosenshtraukh LV. Modulation of rabbit sinoatrial node activation sequence by acetylcholine and isoproterenol investigated with optical mapping technique. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2009; 196:385-94. [PMID: 19302260 DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-1716.2009.01963.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Changes in the rabbit sinoatrial node (SAN) activation sequence with the cholinergic and adrenergic factors were studied. The correlation between the sinus rhythm rate and the leading pacemaker site shift was determined. The hypothesis concerning the cholinergic suppression of nodal cell excitability as one of the mechanisms associated with pacemaker shift was tested. METHODS A high-resolution optical mapping technique was used to register beat-to-beat changes in the SAN activation pattern under the influence of the cholinergic and adrenergic factors. RESULTS Acetylcholine (10 microm) and strong intramural parasympathetic nerve stimulation caused a pacemaker shift as well as rhythmic slowing and the formation of an inexcitable region in the central part of SAN. In this region the generation of action potentials was suppressed. The slowing of the sinus rhythm (which exceeded 12.8 +/- 3.1% of the rhythm control rate) always accompanied the pacemaker shift. Isoproterenol (10, 100 nm, 1 microm) and sympathetic postganglionic nerve stimulation also evoked a pacemaker shift but without formation of an inexcitable zone. The acceleration of the sinus rhythm, which exceeded 10.5 +/- 1.3% of the control rate of the rhythm, always accompanied the shift. CONCLUSIONS Both cholinergic and adrenergic factors cause pacemaker shifts in the rabbit SAN. While modest changes in the sinus rhythm do not coincide with the pacemaker shift, greater changes always accompany the shift and may be caused by it, according to one hypothesis. The formation of an inexcitable zone at the place where the leading pacemaker is situated is one of the mechanisms associated with pacemaker shift.
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Affiliation(s)
- D V Abramochkin
- Laboratory of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Institute of Experimental Cardiology, Moscow, Russia.
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Lyashkov AE, Vinogradova TM, Zahanich I, Li Y, Younes A, Nuss HB, Spurgeon HA, Maltsev VA, Lakatta EG. Cholinergic receptor signaling modulates spontaneous firing of sinoatrial nodal cells via integrated effects on PKA-dependent Ca(2+) cycling and I(KACh). Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2009; 297:H949-59. [PMID: 19542482 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.01340.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Prior studies indicate that cholinergic receptor (ChR) activation is linked to beating rate reduction (BRR) in sinoatrial nodal cells (SANC) via 1) a G(i)-coupled reduction in adenylyl cyclase (AC) activity, leading to a reduction of cAMP or protein kinase A (PKA) modulation of hyperpolarization-activated current (I(f)) or L-type Ca(2+) currents (I(Ca,L)), respectively; and 2) direct G(i)-coupled activation of ACh-activated potassium current (I(KACh)). More recent studies, however, have indicated that Ca(2+) cycling by the sarcoplasmic reticulum within SANC (referred to as a Ca(2+) clock) generates rhythmic, spontaneous local Ca(2+) releases (LCR) that are AC-PKA dependent. LCRs activate Na(+)-Ca(2+) exchange (NCX) current, which ignites the surface membrane ion channels to effect an AP. The purpose of the present study was to determine how ChR signaling initiated by a cholinergic agonist, carbachol (CCh), affects AC, cAMP, and PKA or sarcolemmal ion channels and LCRs and how these effects become integrated to generate the net response to a given intensity of ChR stimulation in single, isolated rabbit SANC. The threshold CCh concentration ([CCh]) for BRR was approximately 10 nM, half maximal inhibition (IC(50)) was achieved at 100 nM, and 1,000 nM stopped spontaneous beating. G(i) inhibition by pertussis toxin blocked all CCh effects on BRR. Using specific ion channel blockers, we established that I(f) blockade did not affect BRR at any [CCh] and that I(KACh) activation, evidenced by hyperpolarization, first became apparent at [CCh] > 30 nM. At IC(50), CCh reduced cAMP and reduced PKA-dependent phospholamban (PLB) phosphorylation by approximately 50%. The dose response of BRR to CCh in the presence of I(KACh) blockade by a specific inhibitor, tertiapin Q, mirrored that of CCh to reduced PLB phosphorylation. At IC(50), CCh caused a time-dependent reduction in the number and size of LCRs and a time dependent increase in LCR period that paralleled coincident BRR. The phosphatase inhibitor calyculin A reversed the effect of IC(50) CCh on SANC LCRs and BRR. Numerical model simulations demonstrated that Ca(2+) cycling is integrated into the cholinergic modulation of BRR via LCR-induced activation of NCX current, providing theoretical support for the experimental findings. Thus ChR stimulation-induced BRR is entirely dependent on G(i) activation and the extent of G(i) coupling to Ca(2+) cycling via PKA signaling or to I(KACh): at low [CCh], I(KACh) activation is not evident and BRR is attributable to a suppression of cAMP-mediated, PKA-dependent Ca(2+) signaling; as [CCh] increases beyond 30 nM, a tight coupling between suppression of PKA-dependent Ca(2+) signaling and I(KACh) activation underlies a more pronounced BRR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey E Lyashkov
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Science, Gerontology Research Center, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224-6825, USA
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Bolter CP, Turner MJ. Tertiapin-Q removes a large and rapidly acting component of vagal slowing of the guinea-pig cardiac pacemaker. Auton Neurosci 2009; 150:76-81. [PMID: 19481505 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2009.05.244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2008] [Revised: 05/01/2009] [Accepted: 05/01/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The participation of acetylcholine-activated potassium current (I(K,ACh)) and hyperpolarization-activated pacemaker current (I(f)) in vagal bradycardia were examined using vagally-innervated preparations of guinea-pig atria. Preparations were maintained in Krebs-Henseleit solution (36 degrees C). Before treatment, trains of vagal stimuli (10 s at 2, 5 and 10 Hz) produced graded bradycardias displaying rapid onset and offset. Tertiapin-Q (300 nM), which blocks I(K,ACh), had no effect on baseline atrial rate. In tertiapin-Q, vagal bradycardia displayed a gradual onset and offset, with a peak response ~50% of that recorded in control conditions. Cumulative addition of 1 mM ZD7288 (blocker of I(f)) caused atrial rate to fall by ~60%, but had no further effect on the amplitude of the vagal bradycardia, while response onset and offset became slightly faster. From these observations, we argue that (i) vagal bradycardia was attributable primarily to activation of I(K,ACh), (ii) vagal modulation of I(f) had a minor influence on the rate of onset and offset of bradycardia, and (iii) removal of the influence of I(K,ACh) unmasked a slow response, of undetermined origin, to vagal stimulation. In a separate set of experiments we compared the effects of 1 mM Ba(2+) and 300 nM tertiapin-Q on vagal bradycardia. Ba(2+) reduced baseline atrial rate and the response to vagal stimulation. Subsequent cumulative addition of tertiapin-Q had no additional effect on baseline atrial rate, but caused further reduction in the amplitude of vagal bradycardia, suggesting that 1 mM Ba(2+) did not achieve a complete block of I(K,ACh) in this preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris P Bolter
- Department of Physiology and the Centre for Neuroscience, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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Masumiya H, Oku Y, Okada Y. Inhomogeneous distribution of action potential characteristics in the rabbit sino-atrial node revealed by voltage imaging. J Physiol Sci 2009; 59:227-41. [PMID: 19340533 PMCID: PMC10717393 DOI: 10.1007/s12576-009-0032-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2008] [Accepted: 02/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The sino-atrial node (SAN) is the natural pacemaker of the heart. Mechanisms of the leading pacemaker site generation and dynamic pacemaker shifts in the SAN have been so far studied with an electrophysiological technique, but the detailed spatial distribution of action potential characteristics in the SAN has not been analyzed due to the limited number of simultaneously recorded sites in microelectrode recording. To elucidate the mechanism of leading pacemaker site generation in the SAN, we applied a voltage imaging technique and analyzed the spatial distribution of action potential characteristics in the rabbit SAN. Action potential parameters, i.e., action potential duration at 50% repolarization level, the slope of upstroke, and the slope of the linearly depolarizing early phase of pacemaker activity (phase-4), were calculated from optical signals. Action potential parameter values derived from intracellular recording with a microelectrode and those from optical recording were significantly correlated. The leading pacemaker site occurred in the region of either globally or locally maximum phase-4 slope in 7 of 12 preparations, however, it did not coincide with the region of the early maximum phase-4 slope in the other 5 preparations. Carbenoxolone, a gap junction blocker, changed action potential properties and caused pacemaker shifts. Model simulation, assuming an inhomogeneous distribution of intrinsic properties of SAN cells, reproduced the experimental results. We conclude that the functional structure of the SAN is more inhomogeneous than that dictated by previous models. Besides intrinsic cellular properties, cell-to-cell interaction through gap junctions influences action potential characteristics and leading pacemaker site generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruko Masumiya
- Division of Physiome, Department of Physiology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501 Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Oku
- Division of Physiome, Department of Physiology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8501 Japan
| | - Yasumasa Okada
- Department of Medicine, Keio University Tsukigase Rehabilitation Center, Izu, Shizuoka 410-3215 Japan
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Fedorov VV, Schuessler RB, Hemphill M, Ambrosi CM, Chang R, Voloshina AS, Brown K, Hucker WJ, Efimov IR. Structural and functional evidence for discrete exit pathways that connect the canine sinoatrial node and atria. Circ Res 2009; 104:915-23. [PMID: 19246679 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.108.193193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Surface electrode recordings cannot delineate the activation within the human or canine sinoatrial node (SAN) because they are intramural structures. Thus, the site of origin of excitation and conduction pathway(s) within the SAN of these mammals remains unknown. Canine right atrial preparations (n=7) were optically mapped. The SAN 3D structure and protein expression were mapped using immunohistochemistry. SAN optical action potentials had diastolic depolarization and multiple upstroke components that corresponded to the separate excitations of the node and surface atrial layers. Pacing-induced SAN exit block eliminated atrial optical action potential components but retained SAN optical action potential components. Excitation originated in the SAN (cycle length, 557+/-72 ms) and slowly spread (1.2 to 14 cm/sec) within the SAN, failing to directly excite the crista terminalis and intraatrial septum. After a 49+/-22 ms conduction delay within the SAN, excitation reached the atrial myocardium via superior and/or inferior sinoatrial exit pathways 8.8+/-3.2 mm from the leading pacemaker site. The ellipsoidal 13.7+/-2.8/4.9+/-0.6 mm SAN structure was functionally insulated from the atrium. This insulation coincided with connexin43-negative regions at the borders of the node, connective tissue, and coronary arteries. During normal sinus rhythm, the canine SAN is functionally insulated from the surrounding atrial myocardium except for 2 (or more) narrow superior and inferior sinoatrial exit pathways separated by 12.8+/-4.1 mm. Conduction failure in these sinoatrial exit pathways leads to SAN exit block and is a modulator of heart rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vadim V Fedorov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St Louis, Mo. 63130, USA.
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