Sample records for adverse lv remodeling

  1. Residual Myocardial Iron Following Intramyocardial Hemorrhage During the Convalescent Phase of Reperfused ST-Segment-Elevation Myocardial Infarction and Adverse Left Ventricular Remodeling.

    PubMed

    Bulluck, Heerajnarain; Rosmini, Stefania; Abdel-Gadir, Amna; White, Steven K; Bhuva, Anish N; Treibel, Thomas A; Fontana, Marianna; Ramlall, Manish; Hamarneh, Ashraf; Sirker, Alex; Herrey, Anna S; Manisty, Charlotte; Yellon, Derek M; Kellman, Peter; Moon, James C; Hausenloy, Derek J

    2016-10-01

    The presence of intramyocardial hemorrhage (IMH) in ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction patients reperfused by primary percutaneous coronary intervention has been associated with residual myocardial iron at follow-up, and its impact on adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling is incompletely understood and is investigated here. Forty-eight ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction patients underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance at 4±2 days post primary percutaneous coronary intervention, of whom 40 had a follow-up scan at 5±2 months. Native T1, T2, and T2* maps were acquired. Eight out of 40 (20%) patients developed adverse LV remodeling. A subset of 28 patients had matching T2* maps, of which 15/28 patients (54%) had IMH. Eighteen of 28 (64%) patients had microvascular obstruction on the acute scan, of whom 15/18 (83%) patients had microvascular obstruction with IMH. On the follow-up scan, 13/15 patients (87%) had evidence of residual iron within the infarct zone. Patients with residual iron had higher T2 in the infarct zone surrounding the residual iron when compared with those without. In patients with adverse LV remodeling, T2 in the infarct zone surrounding the residual iron was also higher than in those without (60 [54-64] ms versus 53 [51-56] ms; P=0.025). Acute myocardial infarct size, extent of microvascular obstruction, and IMH correlated with the change in LV end-diastolic volume (Pearson's rho of 0.64, 0.59, and 0.66, respectively; P=0.18 and 0.62, respectively, for correlation coefficient comparison) and performed equally well on receiver operating characteristic curve for predicting adverse LV remodeling (area under the curve: 0.99, 0.94, and 0.95, respectively; P=0.19 for receiver operating characteristic curve comparison). The majority of ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction patients with IMH had residual myocardial iron at follow-up. This was associated with persistently elevated T2 values in the surrounding infarct tissue and

  2. Persistent Microvascular Obstruction After Myocardial Infarction Culminates in the Confluence of Ferric Iron Oxide Crystals, Proinflammatory Burden, and Adverse RemodelingCLINICAL PERSPECTIVE

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kali, Avinash; Cokic, Ivan; Tang, Richard

    Emerging evidence now supports the notion that persistent microvascular obstruction (PMO) may be more predictive of major adverse cardiovascular events than MI size itself. But, how PMO, a phenomenon limited to the acute/sub-acute period of MI, imparts adverse remodeling throughout the post MI period, particularly after its resolution, is incompletely understood. We hypothesized that PMOs resolve into chronic iron crystals within MI territories and actively impart a proinflammatory burden and adverse remodeling of infarction and LV in the chronic phase of MI. Canine models reperfused (n=20) and non-reperfused (n=20) with and without PMO were studied with serial cardiac MRI tomore » characterize the spatiotemporal relationships between PMO, iron deposition, and infarct and LV remodeling indices between acute (day 7, post MI) and chronic (week 8, post MI). Histopathology and immunohistochemistry were used to validate the iron deposition, microscopically map and quantify the relationship between iron-rich chronic MI regions against pro-inflammatory macrophages, proinflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinase. Atomic resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to determine the crystallinity of iron and assess the physical effects of iron on lysosomes within macrophages, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) to identify the chemical composition of the iron composite. Results showed that PMOs lead to iron deposition within chronic MI and that the extent of chronic iron deposition is strongly related to PMO Volume (r>0.6, p<0.001). TEM and EDS analysis showed that iron within chronic MI is found within macrophages as aggregates of nanocrystals of ~2.5 nm diameter in ferric state. Correlative histological studies showed that iron content, proinflammatory burden and collagen degrading enzyme were highly correlated (r >0.7, p<0.001). Iron within chronic MI was significantly associated with infarct resorption (r>0.5, p<0.001) and adverse

  3. Prevention of Adverse Electrical and Mechanical Remodeling with Bi-Ventricular Pacing in a Rabbit Model of Myocardial Infarction

    PubMed Central

    Saba, Samir; Mathier, Michael A.; Mehdi, Haider; Gursoy, Erdal; Liu, Tong; Choi, Bum-Rak; Salama, Guy; London, Barry

    2008-01-01

    Background: Biventricular (BIV) pacing can improve cardiac function in heart failure (HF). Objective: To investigate the mechanisms of benefit of BIV pacing using a rabbit model of myocardial infarction (MI). Methods: New Zealand White rabbits were divided into 4 groups: sham-operated (C), MI with no pacing (MI), MI with right ventricular pacing (MI+RV), and MI with BIV pacing (MI+BIV), and underwent serial electrocardiograms and echocardiograms. At 4 weeks, hearts were excised and tissue was extracted from various areas of the left ventricle (LV). Results: Four weeks after coronary ligation, BIV pacing prevented systolic and diastolic dilation of the LV as well as the reduction in its fractional shortening, restored the QRS width and the rate-dependent QT intervals to their baseline values, and prevented the decline of the ether-a-go-go (erg) protein levels. This prevention of remodeling was not documented in the MI+RV groups. Conclusions: In this rabbit model of BIV pacing and MI, we demonstrate prevention of adverse mechanical and electrical remodeling of the heart. These changes may underlie some of the benefits seen with BIV pacing in HF patients with more severe LV dysfunction. PMID:18180026

  4. Circulating Endothelial Cells and Endothelial Function predict Major Adverse Cardiac Events and Early Adverse Left Ventricular Remodeling in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

    PubMed Central

    Magdy, Abdel Hamid; Bakhoum, Sameh; Sharaf, Yasser; Sabry, Dina; El-Gengehe, Ahmed T; Abdel-Latif, Ahmed

    2016-01-01

    Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and circulating endothelial cells (CECs) are mobilized from the bone marrow and increase in the early phase after ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic significance of CECs and indices of endothelial dysfunction in patients with STEMI. In 78 patients with acute STEMI, characterization of CD34+/VEGFR2+ CECs, and indices of endothelial damage/dysfunction such as brachial artery flow mediated dilatation (FMD) were determined. Blood samples for CECs assessment and quantification were obtained within 24 hours of admission and FMD was assessed during the index hospitalization. At 30 days follow up, the primary composite end point of major cardiac adverse events (MACE) consisting of all-cause mortality, recurrent non-fatal MI, or heart failure and the secondary endpoint of early adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling were analyzed. The 17 patients (22%) who developed MACE had significantly higher CEC level (P = 0.004), vWF level (P =0.028), and significantly lower FMD (P = 0.006) compared to the remaining patients. Logistic regression analysis showed that CECs level and LV ejection fraction were independent predictors of MACE. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) for CEC level, FMD, and the logistic model with both markers were 0.73, 0.75, and 0.82 respectively for prediction of the MACE. The 16 patients who developed the secondary endpoint had significantly higher CEC level compared to remaining patients (p =0.038). In conclusion, increased circulating endothelial cells and endothelial dysfunction predicted the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events and adverse cardiac remodeling in patients with STEMI. PMID:26864952

  5. Protease-Activated Receptor 1 Inhibition by SCH79797 Attenuates Left Ventricular Remodeling and Profibrotic Activities of Cardiac Fibroblasts

    PubMed Central

    Sonin, Dmitry L.; Wakatsuki, Tetsuro; Routhu, Kasi V.; Harmann, Leanne M.; Petersen, Matthew; Meyer, Jennifer; Strande, Jennifer L.

    2013-01-01

    Purpose Fibroblast activity promotes adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling that underlies the development of ischemic cardiomyopathy. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is a potent stimulus for fibrosis, and the extracellular signal-regulated kinases(ERK) 1/2 pathway also contributes to the fibrotic response. The thrombin receptor, protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1), has been shown to play an important role in the excessive fibrosis in different tissues. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of a PAR1 inhibitor, SCH79797, on cardiac fibrosis, tissue stiffness and postinfarction remodeling, and effects of PAR1 inhibition on thrombin-induced TGF-β and (ERK) 1/2 activities in cardiac fibroblasts. Methods We used a rat model of myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury, isolated cardiac fibroblasts, and 3-dimensional (3D) cardiac tissue models fabricated to ascertain the contribution of PAR1 activation on cardiac fibrosis and LV remodeling. Results The PAR1 inhibitor attenuated LV dilation and improved LV systolic function of the reperfused myocardium at 28 days. This improvement was associated with a nonsignificant decrease in scar size (%LV) from 23 ± % in the control group (n = 10) to 16% ± 5.5% in the treated group (n = 9; P = .052). In the short term, the PAR1 inhibitor did not rescue infarct size or LV systolic function after 3 days. The PAR1 inhibition abolished thrombin-mediated ERK1/2 phosphorylation, TGF-β and type I procollagen production, matrix metalloproteinase-2/9 activation, myofibroblasts transformation in vitro, and abrogated the remodeling of 3D tissues induced by chronic thrombin treatment. Conclusion These studies suggest PAR1 inhibition initiated after ischemic injury attenuates adverse LV remodeling through late-stage antifibrotic events. PMID:23598708

  6. Baduanjin Exercise Prevents post-Myocardial Infarction Left Ventricular Remodeling (BE-PREMIER trial): Design and Rationale of a Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial.

    PubMed

    Mao, Shuai; Zhang, Xiaoxuan; Shao, Biying; Hu, Xiyan; Hu, Yanan; Li, Winny; Guo, Liheng; Zhang, Minzhou

    2016-06-01

    Left ventricular (LV) remodeling following myocardial infarction (MI) is an established prognostic factor for adverse cardiovascular events and the leading cause of heart failure. Empirical observations have suggested that Baduanjin exercise, an important component of traditional Chinese Qigong, may exert potential benefits on cardiopulmonary function. However, the impact of a Baduanjin exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation program for patients recovering from a recent MI has yet to be assessed. The aim of this trial is to evaluate the potential role of Baduanjin exercise in preventing the maladaptive progression to adverse LV remodeling in patients post-MI. A total of 110 clinically stable patients following an MI after undergoing successful infarct-related artery reperfusion will be randomly assigned to the Baduanjin exercise group or usual exercise control group. In addition to usual physical activity, participants in the Baduanjin exercise group will participate in a 45 min Baduanjin exercise training session twice a week, for a total of 12 weeks. The primary endpoint will be the percentage change in LV end-diastolic volume index (LVEDVi) assessed using echocardiography from baseline to 6 months. The results of this study may provide novel evidence on the efficacy of Baduanjin exercise therapy in post-MI patients in reversing adverse LV remodeling and improving clinical outcome. Clinical Trials.gov: NCT02693795.

  7. Left Ventricular Architecture, Long-Term Reverse Remodeling, and Clinical Outcome in Mild Heart Failure With Cardiac Resynchronization: Results From the REVERSE Trial.

    PubMed

    St John Sutton, Martin; Linde, Cecilia; Gold, Michael R; Abraham, William T; Ghio, Stefano; Cerkvenik, Jeffrey; Daubert, Jean-Claude

    2017-03-01

    This study sought to determine the effects of abnormal left ventricular (LV) architecture on cardiac remodeling and clinical outcomes in mild heart failure (HF). Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an established treatment for HF that improves survival in part by favorably remodeling LV architecture. LV shape is a dynamic component of LV architecture on which contractile function depends. Transthoracic 2-dimensional echocardiography was used to quantify changes in LV architecture over 5 years of follow-up of patients with mild HF from the REVERSE study. REVERSE was a prospective study of patients with large hearts (LV end-diastolic dimension ≥55 mm), LV ejection fraction <40%, and QRS duration >120 ms randomly assigned to CRT-ON (n = 419) and CRT-OFF (n = 191). CRT-OFF patients were excluded from this analysis. LV dimensions, volumes, mass index, and LV ejection fraction were calculated. LV architecture was assessed using the sphericity index, as follows: (LV end-diastolic volume)/(4/3 × π × r 3 ) × 100%. LV architecture improved over time and demonstrated significant associations between LV shape, age, sex, and echocardiography metrics. Changes in LV architecture were strongly correlated with changes in LV end-systolic volume index and LV end-diastolic volume index (both p < 0.0001). Sphericity index emerged as a predictor of death and HF hospitalization in spite of the low adverse event rate. A decrease in LV end-systolic volume index >15% occurred in more than two-thirds of patients, which indicates considerable reverse remodeling. We demonstrated that change in LV architecture in patients with mild HF with CRT is associated with structural and functional remodeling. Mean LV filling pressure was elevated, and the inability to lower it was an additional predictor of HF hospitalization or death. (Resynchronization Reverses Remodeling in Systolic Left Ventricular Dysfunction [REVERSE]; NCT00271154). Copyright © 2017 American College of

  8. Adverse Left Ventricular Remodeling and Age Assessed with Cardiac MR Imaging: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis

    PubMed Central

    McClelland, Robyn L.; Gomes, Antoinette S.; Hundley, W. Gregory; Cheng, Susan; Wu, Colin O.; Carr, J. Jeffrey; Shea, Steven; Bluemke, David A.; Lima, Joao A. C.

    2016-01-01

    Purpose To evaluate age-related left ventricular (LV) remodeling during longitudinal observation of a large cohort of asymptomatic individuals who were free of clinical cardiovascular disease at baseline. Materials and Methods The applicable institutional review boards approved this study, and all participants gave informed consent. Cardiac magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was used to identify longitudinal changes in LV structure and function in 2935 participants who underwent baseline and follow-up cardiac MR imaging in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. Participants were free of clinical cardiovascular disease at baseline. Participants who experienced an incident coronary heart disease event were excluded. Data were analyzed with multivariable mixed-effects regression models in which the outcome was cardiac MR imaging measurement, and the covariates included follow-up time and cardiac risk factors. Results Participants were aged 54–94 years at follow-up, and 53% of the participants were women. Median time between baseline and follow-up cardiac MR imaging was 9.4 years. Over this period, LV mass increased in men and decreased slightly in women (8.0 and −1.6 g per decade, respectively; P < .001). In both men and women, LV end-diastolic volume decreased (−9.8 and −13.3 mL per decade, respectively; P < .001), stroke volume decreased (−8.8 and −8.6 mL per decade, respectively; P < .001), and mass-to-volume ratio increased (0.14 and 0.11 g/mL per decade, respectively; P < .001). Change in LV mass was positively associated with systolic blood pressure and body mass index and negatively associated with treated hypertension and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level. In men, the longitudinal LV mass increase was in contrast to a cross-sectional pattern of LV mass decrease. Conclusion As patients age, the LV responds differently in its mass and volume between men and women, although both men and women experience increased concentric LV remodeling

  9. Modification of a Volume-Overload Heart Failure Model to Track Myocardial Remodeling and Device-Related Reverse Remodeling

    PubMed Central

    Tuzun, Egemen; Bick, Roger; Kadipasaoglu, Cihan; Conger, Jeffrey L.; Poindexter, Brian J.; Gregoric, Igor D.; Frazier, O. H.; Towbin, Jeffrey A.; Radovancevic, Branislav

    2011-01-01

    Purpose. To provide an ovine model of ventricular remodeling and reverse remodeling by creating congestive heart failure (CHF) and then treating it by implanting a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Methods. We induced volume-overload heart failure in 2 sheep; 20 weeks later, we implanted an LVAD and assessed recovery 11 weeks thereafter. We examined changes in histologic and hemodynamic data and levels of cellular markers of CHF. Results. After CHF induction, we found increases in LV end-diastolic pressure, LV systolic and diastolic dimensions, wall thickness, left atrial diameter, and atrial natriuretic protein (ANP) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels; β-adrenergic receptor (BAR) and dystrophin expression decreased markedly. Biopsies confirmed LV remodeling. After LVAD support, LV systolic and diastolic dimensions, wall thickness, and mass, and ANP and ET-1 levels decreased. Histopathologic and hemodynamic markers improved, and BAR and dystrophin expression normalized. Conclusions. We describe a successful sheep model for ventricular and reverse remodeling. PMID:22347659

  10. Inflammatory Mediators Drive Adverse Right Ventricular Remodeling and Dysfunction and Serve as Potential Biomarkers.

    PubMed

    Sydykov, Akylbek; Mamazhakypov, Argen; Petrovic, Aleksandar; Kosanovic, Djuro; Sarybaev, Akpay S; Weissmann, Norbert; Ghofrani, Hossein A; Schermuly, Ralph T

    2018-01-01

    Adverse right ventricular (RV) remodeling leads to ventricular dysfunction and failure that represents an important determinant of outcome in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH). Recent evidence indicates that inflammatory activation contributes to the pathogenesis of adverse RV remodeling and dysfunction. It has been shown that accumulation of inflammatory cells such as macrophages and mast cells in the right ventricle is associated with maladaptive RV remodeling. In addition, inhibition of inflammation in animal models of RV failure ameliorated RV structural and functional impairment. Furthermore, a number of circulating inflammatory mediators have been demonstrated to be associated with RV performance. This work reviews the role of inflammation in RV remodeling and dysfunction and discusses anti-inflammatory strategies that may attenuate adverse structural alterations while promoting improvement of RV function.

  11. Reverse left ventricular remodeling after acute myocardial infarction: the prognostic impact of left ventricular global torsion.

    PubMed

    Spinelli, Letizia; Morisco, Carmine; Assante di Panzillo, Emiliano; Izzo, Raffaele; Trimarco, Bruno

    2013-04-01

    Reverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling (>10 % reduction in LV end-systolic volume) may occur in patients recovering for acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), undergoing percutaneous revascularization of infarct-related coronary artery (PCI). To detect whether LV global torsion obtained by two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography was predictive of reverse LV remodeling, 75 patients with first anterior wall STEMI were studied before (T1) and after PCI (T2) and at 6-month follow-up. Two-year clinical follow-up was also accomplished. LV volumes and both LV sphericity index and conic index were obtained by three-dimensional echocardiography. Reverse remodeling was observed in 25 patients (33 %). By multivariate analysis, independent predictors of reverse LV remodeling were: LV conic index, T2 LV torsion and Δ torsion (difference between T2 and T1 LV torsion expressed as percentage of this latter). According to receiver operating characteristic analysis, 1.34°/cm for T2 LV torsion (sensitivity 88 % and specificity 80 %) and 54 % for Δ torsion (sensitivity 92 % and specificity 82 %) were the optimal cutoff values in predicting reverse LV remodeling. In up to 24 month follow-up, 4 non-fatal re-infarction, 7 hospitalization for heart failure and 4 cardiac deaths occurred. By multivariate Cox analysis, the best variable significantly associated with event-free survival rate was reverse LV remodeling with a hazard ratio = 9.9 (95 % confidence interval, 7.9-31.4, p < 0.01). In conclusion, reverse LV remodeling occurring after anterior wall STEMI is associated with favorable long-term outcome. The improvement of global LV torsion following coronary artery revascularization is the major predictor of reverse LV remodeling.

  12. Inflammatory Mediators Drive Adverse Right Ventricular Remodeling and Dysfunction and Serve as Potential Biomarkers

    PubMed Central

    Sydykov, Akylbek; Mamazhakypov, Argen; Petrovic, Aleksandar; Kosanovic, Djuro; Sarybaev, Akpay S.; Weissmann, Norbert; Ghofrani, Hossein A.; Schermuly, Ralph T.

    2018-01-01

    Adverse right ventricular (RV) remodeling leads to ventricular dysfunction and failure that represents an important determinant of outcome in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH). Recent evidence indicates that inflammatory activation contributes to the pathogenesis of adverse RV remodeling and dysfunction. It has been shown that accumulation of inflammatory cells such as macrophages and mast cells in the right ventricle is associated with maladaptive RV remodeling. In addition, inhibition of inflammation in animal models of RV failure ameliorated RV structural and functional impairment. Furthermore, a number of circulating inflammatory mediators have been demonstrated to be associated with RV performance. This work reviews the role of inflammation in RV remodeling and dysfunction and discusses anti-inflammatory strategies that may attenuate adverse structural alterations while promoting improvement of RV function. PMID:29875701

  13. Plasma tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 and matrix metalloproteinase-9: novel indicators of left ventricular remodelling and prognosis after acute myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Kelly, Dominic; Khan, Sohail Q; Thompson, Matt; Cockerill, Gillian; Ng, Leong L; Samani, Nilesh; Squire, Iain B

    2008-09-01

    Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity is central to the development of left ventricular (LV) remodelling and dysfunction after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We assessed the relationships with LV structure and function and outcome, of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and MMP-9, and compared with N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP). We studied 404 patients with AMI. Primary outcome measures were the associations of TIMP-1, MMP-9, and NTproBNP with death or heart failure, and with LV dimensions, function and remodelling (ΔLVEDV, change in LV end-diastolic volume between discharge and follow-up). Cut-off concentrations for prediction of death or heart failure were identified from receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves. In multivariable analysis, TIMP-1 and NTproBNP had predictive value for LV ejection fraction pre-discharge (TIMP-1 P = 0.023; N-BNP P = 0.007) and at follow-up (TIMP-1 P = 0.001; N-BNP P = 0.003). MMP-9, TIMP-1, and NTproBNP correlated directly with LV volumes. MMP-9 (P = 0.005) and TIMP-1 (P = 0.036), but not NTproBNP, correlated with ΔLVEDV. For the combined endpoint of death or heart failure the area under the ROC curve was 0.640 for MMP-9, 0.799 for NTproBNP and 0.811 for TIMP-1. Patients with TIMP-1 > 135 ng/mL (P < 0.001) or NTproBNP >1472 fmol/mL (P < 0.001) had increased risk of endpoint. Consideration of both NTproBNP and TIMP-1 further improved risk stratification. TIMP-1 and MMP-9 correlate with echocardiographic parameters of LV dysfunction and remodelling after AMI and may identify patients at risk of subsequent LV remodelling and adverse prognosis.

  14. Effects of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Obesity on Cardiac Remodeling: The Wisconsin Sleep Cohort Study.

    PubMed

    Korcarz, Claudia E; Peppard, Paul E; Young, Terry B; Chapman, Carrie B; Hla, K Mae; Barnet, Jodi H; Hagen, Erika; Stein, James H

    2016-06-01

    To characterize the prospective associations of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with future echocardiographic measures of adverse cardiac remodeling. This was a prospective long-term observational study. Participants had overnight polysomnography followed by transthoracic echocardiography a mean (standard deviation) of 18.0 (3.7) y later. OSA was characterized by the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI, events/hour). Echocardiography was used to assess left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function and mass, left atrial volume and pressure, cardiac output, systemic vascular resistance, and right ventricular (RV) systolic function, size, and hemodynamics. Multivariate regression models estimated associations between log10(AHI+1) and future echocardiographic findings. A secondary analysis looked at oxygen desaturation indices and future echocardiographic findings. At entry, the 601 participants were mean (standard deviation) 47 (8) y old (47% female). After adjustment for age, sex, and body mass index, baseline log10(AHI+1) was associated significantly with future reduced LV ejection fraction and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) ≤ 15 mm. After further adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors, participants with higher baseline log10(AHI+1) had lower future LV ejection fraction (β = -1.35 [standard error = 0.6]/log10(AHI+1), P = 0.03) and higher odds of TAPSE ≤ 15 mm (odds ratio = 6.3/log10(AHI+1), 95% confidence interval = 1.3-30.5, P = 0.02). SaO2 desaturation indices were associated independently with LV mass, LV wall thickness, and RV area (all P < 0.03). OSA is associated independently with decreasing LV systolic function and with reduced RV function. Echocardiographic measures of adverse cardiac remodeling are strongly associated with OSA but are confounded by obesity. Hypoxia may be a stimulus for hypertrophy in individuals with OSA. © 2016 Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC.

  15. Pressure overload-dependent membrane type 1-matrix metalloproteinase induction: relationship to LV remodeling and fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Zile, Michael R; Baicu, Catalin F; Stroud, Robert E; Van Laer, An; Arroyo, Jazmine; Mukherjee, Rupak; Jones, Jeffrey A; Spinale, Francis G

    2012-04-01

    Increased myocardial extracellular matrix collagen represents an important structural milestone during the development of left ventricular (LV) pressure overload (PO); however, the proteolytic pathways that contribute to this process are not fully understood. This study tested the hypothesis that membrane type 1-matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) is directly induced at the transcriptional level in vivo during PO and is related to changes in LV collagen content. PO was induced in vivo by transverse aortic constriction in transgenic mice containing the full length human MT1-MMP promoter region ligated to luciferase (MT1-MMP Prom mice). MT1-MMP promoter activation (luciferase expression), expression, and activity; collagen volume fraction (CVF); and left atrial dimension were measured at 1 (n = 8), 2 (n = 12), and 4 (n = 17) wk following PO. Non-PO mice (n = 10) served as controls. Luciferase expression increased by fivefold at 1 wk, fell at 2 wk, and increased again by ninefold at 4 wk of PO (P < 0.05). MT1-MMP expression and activity increased at 1 wk, fell at 2 wk, and increased again at 4 wk after PO. CVF increased at 1 wk, remained unchanged at 2 wk, and increased by threefold at 4 wk of PO (P < 0.05). There was a strong positive correlation between CVF and MT1-MMP activity (r = 0.80, P < 0.05). Left atrial dimension remained unchanged at 1 and 2 wk but increased by 25% at 4 wk of PO. When a mechanical load was applied in vitro to LV papillary muscles isolated from MT1-MMP Prom mice, increased load caused MT1-MMP promoter activation to increase by twofold and MT1-MMP expression to increase by fivefold (P < 0.05). These findings challenge the canonical belief that PO suppresses overall matrix proteolytic activity, but rather supports the concept that certain proteases, such as MT1-MMP, play a pivotal role in PO-induced matrix remodeling and fibrosis.

  16. The role of the sca-1+/CD31- cardiac progenitor cell population in postinfarction left ventricular remodeling.

    PubMed

    Wang, Xiaohong; Hu, Qingsong; Nakamura, Yasuhiro; Lee, Joseph; Zhang, Ge; From, Arthur H L; Zhang, Jianyi

    2006-07-01

    Cardiac stem cell-like populations exist in adult hearts, and their roles in cardiac repair remain to be defined. Sca-1 is an important surface marker for cardiac and other somatic stem cells. We hypothesized that heart-derived Sca-1(+)/CD31(-) cells may play a role in myocardial infarction-induced cardiac repair/remodeling. Mouse heart-derived Sca-1(+)/CD31(-) cells cultured in vitro could be induced to express both endothelial cell and cardiomyocyte markers. Immunofluorescence staining and fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis indicated that endogenous Sca-1(+)/CD31(-) cells were significantly increased in the mouse heart 7 days after myocardial infarction (MI). Western blotting confirmed elevated Sca-1 protein expression in myocardium 7 days after MI. Transplantation of Sca-1(+)/CD31(-) cells into the acutely infarcted mouse heart attenuated the functional decline and adverse structural remodeling initiated by MI as evidenced by an increased left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, a decreased LV end-diastolic dimension, a decreased LV end-systolic dimension, a significant increase of myocardial neovascularization, and modest cardiomyocyte regeneration. Attenuation of LV remodeling was accompanied by remarkably improved myocardial bioenergetic characteristics. The beneficial effects of cell transplantation appear to primarily depend on paracrine effects of the transplanted cells on new vessel formation and native cardiomyocyte function. Sca-1(+)/CD31(-) cells may hold therapeutic possibilities with regard to the treatment of ischemic heart disease.

  17. Left ventricular eccentricity index measured with SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging: An additional parameter of adverse cardiac remodeling.

    PubMed

    Gimelli, Alessia; Liga, Riccardo; Clemente, Alberto; Marras, Gavino; Kusch, Annette; Marzullo, Paolo

    2017-01-12

    Single-photon emission computed-tomography (SPECT) allows the quantification of LV eccentricity index (EI), a measure of cardiac remodeling. We sought to evaluate the feasibility of EI measurement with SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging and its interactions with relevant LV functional and structural parameters. Four-hundred and fifty-six patients underwent myocardial perfusion imaging on a Cadmium-Zinc-Telluride (CZT) camera. The summed rest, stress, and difference scores were calculated. From rest images, the LV end-diastolic (EDV) and end-systolic volumes, ejection fraction (EF), and peak filling rate (PFR) were calculated. In every patient, the EI, ranging from 0 (sphere) to 1 (line), was computed using a dedicated software (QGS/QPS; Cedars-Sinai Medical Center). Three-hundred and thirty-eight/456 (74%) patients showed a normal EF (>50%), while 26% had LV systolic dysfunction. The EI was computed from CZT images with excellent reproducibility (interclass correlation coefficient: 0.99, 95% CI 0.98-0.99). More impaired EI values correlated with the presence of a more abnormal LV perfusion (P < .001), function (EF and PFR, P < .001), and structure (EDV, P < .001). On multivariate analysis, higher EDV (P < .001) and depressed EF (P = .014) values were independent predictors of abnormal EI. The evaluation of LV eccentricity is feasible on gated CZT images. Abnormal EI associates with significant cardiac structural and functional abnormalities.

  18. Dual Endothelin-A/Endothelin-B Receptor Blockade and Cardiac Remodeling in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction

    PubMed Central

    Valero-Munoz, Maria; Li, Shanpeng; Wilson, Richard M.; Boldbaatar, Batbold; Iglarz, Marc; Sam, Flora

    2017-01-01

    Background Despite the increasing prevalence of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in humans, there remains no evidence-based therapies for HFpEF. Endothelin-1 (ET-1) antagonists are a possibility because elevated ET-1 levels are associated with adverse cardiovascular effects, such as arterial and pulmonary vasoconstriction, impaired left ventricular (LV) relaxation, and stimulation of LV hypertrophy. LV hypertrophy is a common phenotype in HFpEF, particularly when associated with hypertension. Methods and Results In the present study, we found that ET-1 levels were significantly elevated in patients with chronic stable HFpEF. We then sought to investigate the effects of chronic macitentan, a dual ET-A/ET-B receptor antagonist, on cardiac structure and function in a murine model of HFpEF induced by chronic aldosterone infusion. Macitentan caused LV hypertrophy regression independent of blood pressure changes in HFpEF. Although macitentan did not modulate diastolic dysfunction in HFpEF, it significantly reduced wall thickness and relative wall thickness after 2 weeks of therapy. In vitro studies showed that macitentan decreased the aldosterone-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. These changes were mediated by a reduction in the expression of cardiac myocyte enhancer factor 2a. Moreover, macitentan improved adverse cardiac remodeling, by reducing the stiffer cardiac collagen I and titin n2b expression in the left ventricle of mice with HFpEF. Conclusions These findings indicate that dual ET-A/ET-B receptor inhibition improves HFpEF by abrogating adverse cardiac remodeling via antihypertrophic mechanisms and by reducing stiffness. Additional studies are needed to explore the role of dual ET-1 receptor antagonists in patients with HFpEF. PMID:27810862

  19. Dual Endothelin-A/Endothelin-B Receptor Blockade and Cardiac Remodeling in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction.

    PubMed

    Valero-Munoz, Maria; Li, Shanpeng; Wilson, Richard M; Boldbaatar, Batbold; Iglarz, Marc; Sam, Flora

    2016-11-01

    Despite the increasing prevalence of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in humans, there remains no evidence-based therapies for HFpEF. Endothelin-1 (ET-1) antagonists are a possibility because elevated ET-1 levels are associated with adverse cardiovascular effects, such as arterial and pulmonary vasoconstriction, impaired left ventricular (LV) relaxation, and stimulation of LV hypertrophy. LV hypertrophy is a common phenotype in HFpEF, particularly when associated with hypertension. In the present study, we found that ET-1 levels were significantly elevated in patients with chronic stable HFpEF. We then sought to investigate the effects of chronic macitentan, a dual ET-A/ET-B receptor antagonist, on cardiac structure and function in a murine model of HFpEF induced by chronic aldosterone infusion. Macitentan caused LV hypertrophy regression independent of blood pressure changes in HFpEF. Although macitentan did not modulate diastolic dysfunction in HFpEF, it significantly reduced wall thickness and relative wall thickness after 2 weeks of therapy. In vitro studies showed that macitentan decreased the aldosterone-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. These changes were mediated by a reduction in the expression of cardiac myocyte enhancer factor 2a. Moreover, macitentan improved adverse cardiac remodeling, by reducing the stiffer cardiac collagen I and titin n2b expression in the left ventricle of mice with HFpEF. These findings indicate that dual ET-A/ET-B receptor inhibition improves HFpEF by abrogating adverse cardiac remodeling via antihypertrophic mechanisms and by reducing stiffness. Additional studies are needed to explore the role of dual ET-1 receptor antagonists in patients with HFpEF. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

  20. Mechanisms of Post-Infarct Left Ventricular Remodeling

    PubMed Central

    French, Brent A.; Kramer, Christopher M.

    2008-01-01

    Heart failure secondary to myocardial infarction (MI) remains a major source of morbidity and mortality. Long-term outcome after MI can be largely be defined in terms of its impact on the size and shape of the left ventricle (i.e., LV remodeling). Three major mechanisms contribute to LV remodeling: 1) early infarct expansion, 2) subsequent infarct extension into adjacent noninfarcted myocardium, and 3) late hypertrophy in the remote LV. Future developments in preventing post-MI heart failure will depend not only on identifying drugs targeting each of these individual mechanisms, but also on diagnostic techniques capable of assessing efficacy against each mechanism. PMID:18690295

  1. Mast cell stabilization decreases cardiomyocyte and LV function in dogs with isolated mitral regurgitation.

    PubMed

    Pat, Betty; Killingsworth, Cheryl; Chen, Yuanwen; Gladden, James D; Walcott, Greg; Powell, Pamela C; Denney, Thomas; Gupta, Himanshu; Desai, Ravi; Tillson, Michael; Dillon, A Ray; Dell'italia, Louis J

    2010-09-01

    Mast cells are increased in isolated mitral regurgitation (MR) in the dog and may mediate extracellular matrix loss and left ventricular (LV) dilatation. We tested the hypothesis that mast cell stabilization would attenuate LV remodeling and improve function in the MR dog. MR was induced in adult dogs randomized to no treatment (MR, n = 5) or to the mast cell stabilizer, ketotifen (MR + MCS, n = 4) for 4 months. LV hemodynamics were obtained at baseline and after 4 months of MR and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed at sacrifice. MRI-derived, serial, short-axis LV end-diastolic (ED) and end-systolic (ES) volumes, LVED volume/mass ratio, and LV 3-dimensional radius/wall thickness were increased in MR and MR + MCS dogs compared with normal dogs (n = 6) (P < .05). Interstitial collagen was decreased by 30% in both MR and MR + MCS versus normal dogs (P < .05). LV contractility by LV maximum time-varying elastance was significantly depressed in MR and MR + MCS dogs. Furthermore, cardiomyocyte fractional shortening was decreased in MR versus normal dogs and further depressed in MR + MCS dogs (P < .05). In vitro administration of ketotifen to normal cardiomyocytes also significantly decreased fractional shortening and calcium transients. Chronic mast cell stabilization did not attenuate eccentric LV remodeling or collagen loss in MR. However, MCS therapy had a detrimental effect on LV function because of a direct negative inotropic effect on cardiomyocyte function. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  2. Divergent Effects of Losartan and Metoprolol on Cardiac Remodeling, C‐kit+ Cells, Proliferation and Apoptosis in the Left Ventricle after Myocardial Infarction

    PubMed Central

    Serpi, Raisa; Tolonen, Anna‐Maria; Tenhunen, Olli; Pieviläinen, Oskari; Kubin, Anna‐Maria; Vaskivuo, Tommi; Soini, Ylermi; Kerkelä, Risto; Leskinen, Hanna; Ruskoaho, Heikki

    2009-01-01

    Abstract There is strong evidence for the use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and beta‐blockers to reduce morbidity and mortality in patients with myocardial infarction (MI), whereas the effect of angiotensin receptor blockers is less clear. We evaluated the effects of an angiotensin receptor blocker losartan and a beta‐blocker metoprolol on left ventricular (LV) remodeling, c‐kit+ cells, proliferation, fibrosis, apoptosis, and angiogenesis using a model of coronary ligation in rats. Metoprolol treatment for 2 weeks improved LV systolic function. In contrast, losartan triggered deleterious structural remodeling and functional deterioration of LV systolic function, ejection fraction being 41% and fractional shortening 47% lower in losartan group than in controls 2 weeks after MI. The number of c‐kit+ cells as well as expression of Ki‐67 was increased by metoprolol. Losartan‐induced thinning of the anterior wall and ventricular dilation were associated with increased apoptosis and fibrosis, while losartan had no effect on the expression of c‐kit or Ki‐67. Metoprolol or losartan had no effect on microvessel density. These results demonstrate that beta‐blocker treatment attenuated adverse remodeling via c‐kit+ cells and proliferation, whereas angiotensin receptor blocker‐induced worsening of LV systolic function was associated with increased apoptosis and fibrosis in the peri‐infarct region. PMID:20443934

  3. Simulated Microgravity and Recovery-Induced Remodeling of the Left and Right Ventricle

    PubMed Central

    Zhong, Guohui; Li, Yuheng; Li, Hongxing; Sun, Weijia; Cao, Dengchao; Li, Jianwei; Zhao, Dingsheng; Song, Jinping; Jin, Xiaoyan; Song, Hailin; Yuan, Xinxin; Wu, Xiaorui; Li, Qi; Xu, Qing; Kan, Guanghan; Cao, Hongqing; Ling, Shukuan; Li, Yingxian

    2016-01-01

    Physiological adaptations to microgravity involve alterations in cardiovascular systems. These adaptations result in cardiac remodeling and orthostatic hypotension. However, the response of the left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) following hindlimb unloading (HU) and hindlimb reloading (HR) is not clear and the underlying mechanism remains to be understood. In this study, three groups of mice were subjected to HU by tail suspension for 28 days. Following this, two groups were allowed to recover for 7 or 14 days. The control group was treated equally, with the exception of tail suspension. Echocardiography was performed to detect the structure and function changes of heart. Compared with the control, the HU group of mice showed reduced LV-EF (ejection fraction), and LV-FS (fractional shortening). However, mice that were allowed to recover for 7 days after HU (HR-7d) showed increased LVIDs (systolic LV internal diameter) and LV Vols (systolic LV volume). Mice that recovered for 14 days (HR-14d) returned to the normal state. In comparison, RV-EF and RV-FS didn't recover to the normal conditions till being reloaded for 14 days. Compared with the control, RVIDd (diastolic RV internal diameter), and RV Vold (diastolic RV volume) were reduced in HU group and recovered to the normal conditions in HR-7d and HR-14d groups, in which groups RVIDs (systolic RV internal diameter) and RV Vols (systolic RV volume) were increased. Histological analysis and cardiac remodeling gene expression results indicated that HU induces left and right ventricular remodeling. Western blot demonstrated that the phosphorylation of HDAC4 and ERK1/2 and the ratio of LC3-II / LC3-I, were increased following HU and recovered following HR in both LV and RV, and the phosphorylation of AMPK was inhibited in both LV and RV following HU, but only restored in LV following HR for 14 days. These results indicate that simulated microgravity leads to cardiac remodeling, and the remodeling changes can

  4. Reverse remodeling and the mechanism of mitral regurgitation improvement in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.

    PubMed

    Kuperstein, Rafael; Blechman, Ido; Ben Zekry, Sagit; Klempfner, Robert; Freimark, Dov; Arad, Michael

    2015-01-01

    Functional mitral regurgitation (MR) is a common finding in dilated cardiomyopathy. Left ventricular (LV) reverse remodeling with LV size reduction and improvement in LV function is a well recognized phenomenon. We aimed to evaluate the impact of LV remodeling on the mechanism leading to functional MR. Among 188 patients with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy, 10 patients significantly improved their LV function, reduced LV size and MR severity during follow-up (RRMR). A comparison was made between their baseline and follow-up echocardiographic examinations and to a matched-control group of patients who did not improve (no RRMR). LV and left atrium (LA) dimensions and volumes, LV mass (LVM), LV ejection fraction (LVEF) (Simpsons), sphericity index (SI), mitral valve tenting area (TA) coaptation distance (CD), effective regurgitant orifice (ERO), and regurgitant volume were calculated. Multivariable analysis was performed in order to evaluate which echocardiographic parameters related to MR improvement in reverse remodeling. LV and LA dimensions and volumes, LVM, SI, TA, CD, ERO and right ventricle, in the RRMR group significantly decreased at follow-up (p < 0.04 for all). When compared to no RRMR, despite a similar ERO (0.2 ± 0.05 vs. 0.2 ± 0.08, p = 0.13) and a larger regurgitant volume (38 ± 9 vs. 29 ± 8 mL, p = 0.05) and despite similar clinical characteristics and medical treatment we found significantly higher LVEF, smaller LV dimensions and volumes, smaller LVM and SI in the RRMR group (p < 0.05 for all). On multivariable analysis the SI was the sole predictor of RRMR (p = 0.04, OR = 0.76, CI 0.58-0.99). Reverse remodeling characterized by improvement in LV function, reduction in LV size and an associated reduction in MR severity is related to LV SI at baseline.

  5. Association of dietary iron restriction with left ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction in mice.

    PubMed

    Eguchi, Akiyo; Naito, Yoshiro; Iwasaku, Toshihiro; Okuhara, Yoshitaka; Morisawa, Daisuke; Sawada, Hisashi; Nishimura, Koichi; Oboshi, Makiko; Fujii, Kenichi; Mano, Toshiaki; Masuyama, Tohru; Hirotani, Shinichi

    2016-02-01

    Several epidemiologic studies have reported that body iron status and dietary iron intake are related to an increased risk of acute myocardial infarction (MI). However, it is completely unknown whether dietary iron reduction impacts the development of left ventricular (LV) remodeling after MI. Here, we investigate the effect of dietary iron restriction on the development of LV remodeling after MI in an experimental model. MI was induced in C57BL/6 J mice (9-11 weeks of age) by the permanent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD). At 2 weeks after LAD ligation, mice were randomly divided into two groups and were given a normal diet or an iron-restricted diet for 4 weeks. Sham operation without LAD ligation was also performed as controls. MI mice exhibited increased LV dilatation and impaired LV systolic function that was associated with cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and interstitial fibrosis in the remote area, as compared with the controls at 6 weeks after MI. In contrast, dietary iron restriction attenuated LV dilatation and impaired LV systolic function coupled to cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and interstitial fibrosis in the remote area. Importantly, cardiac expression of cellular iron transport proteins, transferrin receptor 1 and divalent metal transporter 1 was increased in the remote area of MI mice compared with the controls. Dietary iron restriction attenuated the development of LV remodeling after MI in mice. Cellular iron transport might play a role in the pathophysiological mechanism of LV remodeling after MI.

  6. Left ventricular remodeling in preclinical experimental mitral regurgitation of dogs.

    PubMed

    Dillon, A Ray; Dell'Italia, Louis J; Tillson, Michael; Killingsworth, Cheryl; Denney, Thomas; Hathcock, John; Botzman, Logan

    2012-03-01

    Dogs with experimental mitral regurgitation (MR) provide insights into the left ventricular remodeling in preclinical MR. The early preclinical left ventricular (LV) changes after mitral regurgitation represent progressive dysfunctional remodeling, in that no compensatory response returns the functional stroke volume (SV) to normal even as total SV increases. The gradual disease progression leads to mitral annulus stretch and enlargement of the regurgitant orifice, further increasing the regurgitant volume. Remodeling with loss of collagen weave and extracellular matrix (ECM) is accompanied by stretching and hypertrophy of the cross-sectional area and length of the cardiomyocyte. Isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes demonstrate dysfunction based on decreased cell shortening and reduced intracellular calcium transients before chamber enlargement or decreases in contractility in the whole heart can be clinically appreciated. The genetic response to increased end-diastolic pressure is down-regulation of genes associated with support of the collagen and ECM and up-regulation of genes associated with matrix remodeling. Experiments have not demonstrated any beneficial effects on remodeling from treatments that decrease afterload via blocking the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Beta-1 receptor blockade and chymase inhibition have altered the progression of the LV remodeling and have supported cardiomyocyte function. The geometry of the LV during the remodeling provides insight into the importance of regional differences in responses to wall stress. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  7. Incidence and Significance of Spontaneous ST Segment Re-elevation After Reperfused Anterior Acute Myocardial Infarction - Relationship With Infarct Size, Adverse Remodeling, and Events at 1 Year.

    PubMed

    Cuenin, Léo; Lamoureux, Sophie; Schaaf, Mathieu; Bochaton, Thomas; Monassier, Jean-Pierre; Claeys, Marc J; Rioufol, Gilles; Finet, Gérard; Garcia-Dorado, David; Angoulvant, Denis; Elbaz, Meyer; Delarche, Nicolas; Coste, Pierre; Metge, Marc; Perret, Thibault; Motreff, Pascal; Bonnefoy-Cudraz, Eric; Vanzetto, Gérald; Morel, Olivier; Boussaha, Inesse; Ovize, Michel; Mewton, Nathan

    2018-04-25

    Up to 25% of patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) have ST segment re-elevation after initial regression post-reperfusion and there are few data regarding its prognostic significance.Methods and Results:A standard 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) was recorded in 662 patients with anterior STEMI referred for primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). ECGs were recorded 60-90 min after PPCI and at discharge. ST segment re-elevation was defined as a ≥0.1-mV increase in STMax between the post-PPCI and discharge ECGs. Infarct size (assessed as creatine kinase [CK] peak), echocardiography at baseline and follow-up, and all-cause death and heart failure events at 1 year were assessed. In all, 128 patients (19%) had ST segment re-elevation. There was no difference between patients with and without re-elevation in infarct size (CK peak [mean±SD] 4,231±2,656 vs. 3,993±2,819 IU/L; P=0.402), left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (50.7±11.6% vs. 52.2±10.8%; P=0.186), LV adverse remodeling (20.1±38.9% vs. 18.3±30.9%; P=0.631), or all-cause mortality and heart failure events (22 [19.8%] vs. 106 [19.2%]; P=0.887) at 1 year. Among anterior STEMI patients treated by PPCI, ST segment re-elevation was present in 19% and was not associated with increased infarct size or major adverse events at 1 year.

  8. Association between atrial fibrillation, atrial enlargement, and left ventricular geometric remodeling.

    PubMed

    Seko, Yuta; Kato, Takao; Haruna, Tetsuya; Izumi, Toshiaki; Miyamoto, Shoichi; Nakane, Eisaku; Inoko, Moriaki

    2018-04-23

    This study investigated the relationship between atrial fibrillation (AF) and left ventricular (LV) geometric patterns in a hospital-based population in Japan. We retrospectively analyzed 4444 patients who had undergone simultaneous scheduled transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and electrocardiography during 2013. A total of 430 patients who had findings of previous myocardial infarctions (n = 419) and without the data on body surface area (n = 11) were excluded from the study. We calculated the LV mass index (LVMI) and relative wall (RWT) and categorized 4014 patients into four groups as follows: normal geometry (n = 3046); concentric remodeling (normal LVMI and high RWT, n = 437); concentric hypertrophy (high LVMI and high RWT, n = 149); and eccentric remodeling (high LVMI and normal RWT, n = 382). The mean left atrial volume indices (LAVI) were 22.5, 23.8, 33.3, and 37.0 mm/m 2 in patients with normal geometry, concentric remodeling, concentric hypertrophy, and eccentric hypertrophy, respectively. The mean LV ejection fractions (LVEF) were 62.7, 62.6, 60.8, and 53.8%, respectively, whereas the prevalence of AF was 10.4%, 10.5%, 14.8%, and 16.8% in patients with normal geometry, concentric remodeling, concentric hypertrophy, and eccentric hypertrophy, respectively. In conclusion, the prevalence of AF was increasing according to LV geometric remodeling patterns in association with LA size and LVEF.

  9. The chemokine decoy receptor D6 prevents excessive inflammation and adverse ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Cochain, Clément; Auvynet, Constance; Poupel, Lucie; Vilar, José; Dumeau, Edouard; Richart, Adèle; Récalde, Alice; Zouggari, Yasmine; Yin, Kiave Yune Ho Wang; Bruneval, Patrick; Renault, Gilles; Marchiol, Carmen; Bonnin, Philippe; Lévy, Bernard; Bonecchi, Raffaella; Locati, Massimo; Combadière, Christophe; Silvestre, Jean-Sébastien

    2012-09-01

    Leukocyte infiltration in ischemic areas is a hallmark of myocardial infarction, and overwhelming infiltration of innate immune cells has been shown to promote adverse remodeling and cardiac rupture. Recruitment of inflammatory cells in the ischemic heart depends highly on the family of CC-chemokines and their receptors. Here, we hypothesized that the chemokine decoy receptor D6, which specifically binds and scavenges inflammatory CC-chemokines, might limit inflammation and adverse cardiac remodeling after infarction. D6 was expressed in human and murine infarcted myocardium. In a murine model of myocardial infarction, D6 deficiency led to increased chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 and chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 3 levels in the ischemic heart. D6-deficient (D6(-/-)) infarcts displayed increased infiltration of pathogenic neutrophils and Ly6Chi monocytes, associated with strong matrix metalloproteinase-9 and matrix metalloproteinase-2 activities in the ischemic heart. D6(-/-) mice were cardiac rupture prone after myocardial infarction, and functional analysis revealed that D6(-/-) hearts had features of adverse remodeling with left ventricle dilation and reduced ejection fraction. Bone marrow chimera experiments showed that leukocyte-borne D6 had no role in this setting, and that leukocyte-specific chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 2 deficiency rescued the adverse phenotype observed in D6(-/-) mice. We show for the first time that the chemokine decoy receptor D6 limits CC-chemokine-dependent pathogenic inflammation and is required for adequate cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction.

  10. Left ventricular remodeling and hypertrophy in patients with aortic stenosis: insights from cardiovascular magnetic resonance

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is the gold standard non-invasive method for determining left ventricular (LV) mass and volume but has not been used previously to characterise the LV remodeling response in aortic stenosis. We sought to investigate the degree and patterns of hypertrophy in aortic stenosis using CMR. Methods Patients with moderate or severe aortic stenosis, normal coronary arteries and no other significant valve lesions or cardiomyopathy were scanned by CMR with valve severity assessed by planimetry and velocity mapping. The extent and patterns of hypertrophy were investigated using measurements of the LV mass index, indexed LV volumes and the LV mass/volume ratio. Asymmetric forms of remodeling and hypertrophy were defined by a regional wall thickening ≥13 mm and >1.5-fold the thickness of the opposing myocardial segment. Results Ninety-one patients (61±21 years; 57 male) with aortic stenosis (aortic valve area 0.93±0.32cm2) were recruited. The severity of aortic stenosis was unrelated to the degree (r2=0.012, P=0.43) and pattern (P=0.22) of hypertrophy. By univariate analysis, only male sex demonstrated an association with LV mass index (P=0.02). Six patterns of LV adaption were observed: normal ventricular geometry (n=11), concentric remodeling (n=11), asymmetric remodeling (n=11), concentric hypertrophy (n=34), asymmetric hypertrophy (n=14) and LV decompensation (n=10). Asymmetric patterns displayed considerable overlap in appearances (wall thickness 17±2mm) with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Conclusions We have demonstrated that in patients with moderate and severe aortic stenosis, the pattern of LV adaption and degree of hypertrophy do not closely correlate with the severity of valve narrowing and that asymmetric patterns of wall thickening are common. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Reference Number: NCT00930735 PMID:22839417

  11. Adenoviral short hairpin RNA therapy targeting phosphodiesterase 5a relieves cardiac remodeling and dysfunction following myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Li, Longhu; Haider, Husnain Kh; Wang, Linlin; Lu, Gang; Ashraf, Muhammad

    2012-05-15

    We previously showed that treatment with tadalafil, a long-acting phosphodiesterase-5a (PDE5a) inhibitor, effectively prevented adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling of the infarcted heart. We hypothesized that short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) therapy targeting PDE5a would simulate the effects of pharmacological intervention for treatment of postinfarction LV remodeling and dysfunction. Experimental model of myocardial infarction was developed in female mice by permanent ligation of left coronary artery. Immediately after that, an adenoviral vector encoding for shRNA sequence targeting PDE5a (Ad-shPDE5a) was injected intramyocardially, which specifically inhibited PDE5a in the heart. Four weeks later, Ad-shPDE5a treated mice showed significant mitigation of the left ventricle (LV) dilatation and dysfunction as indicated by smaller LV cavity and more preserved ejection fraction and fractional shortening. Infarction size and fibrosis were significantly reduced in Ad-shPDE5a-treated mice. Additionally, more salvaged cardiomyocytes, significantly reduced collagen contents, and higher blood vessel density were observed in Ad-shPDE5a-treated mice. The cytoprotective effects of Ad-shPDE5a were demonstrated in vitro in Ad-shPDE5a transfected cardiomyocytes cultured under oxygen glucose deprivation. Among downstream mediators of PDE5a signaling, cyclic GMP (cGMP) and cGMP-dependent protein kinase G (PKG) were activated with concomitant reduction in caspase-3 activity. However, no significant change in PKA and cAMP activities were observed in Ad-shPDE5a-treated hearts. Inhibition with shRNA improved cardiac remodeling and dysfunction by reducing infarction size and cardiac fibrosis and increased cGMP and PKG activity. These findings suggest that PDE5 inhibition with Ad-shPDE5a is a novel approach for treatment of myocardial infarction.

  12. Adenoviral short hairpin RNA therapy targeting phosphodiesterase 5a relieves cardiac remodeling and dysfunction following myocardial infarction

    PubMed Central

    Li, Longhu; Haider, Husnain Kh.; Wang, Linlin; Lu, Gang

    2012-01-01

    We previously showed that treatment with tadalafil, a long-acting phosphodiesterase-5a (PDE5a) inhibitor, effectively prevented adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling of the infarcted heart. We hypothesized that short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) therapy targeting PDE5a would simulate the effects of pharmacological intervention for treatment of postinfarction LV remodeling and dysfunction. Experimental model of myocardial infarction was developed in female mice by permanent ligation of left coronary artery. Immediately after that, an adenoviral vector encoding for shRNA sequence targeting PDE5a (Ad-shPDE5a) was injected intramyocardially, which specifically inhibited PDE5a in the heart. Four weeks later, Ad-shPDE5a treated mice showed significant mitigation of the left ventricle (LV) dilatation and dysfunction as indicated by smaller LV cavity and more preserved ejection fraction and fractional shortening. Infarction size and fibrosis were significantly reduced in Ad-shPDE5a-treated mice. Additionally, more salvaged cardiomyocytes, significantly reduced collagen contents, and higher blood vessel density were observed in Ad-shPDE5a-treated mice. The cytoprotective effects of Ad-shPDE5a were demonstrated in vitro in Ad-shPDE5a transfected cardiomyocytes cultured under oxygen glucose deprivation. Among downstream mediators of PDE5a signaling, cyclic GMP (cGMP) and cGMP-dependent protein kinase G (PKG) were activated with concomitant reduction in caspase-3 activity. However, no significant change in PKA and cAMP activities were observed in Ad-shPDE5a-treated hearts. Inhibition with shRNA improved cardiac remodeling and dysfunction by reducing infarction size and cardiac fibrosis and increased cGMP and PKG activity. These findings suggest that PDE5 inhibition with Ad-shPDE5a is a novel approach for treatment of myocardial infarction. PMID:22447941

  13. Chymase inhibition prevents fibronectin and myofibrillar loss and improves cardiomyocyte function and LV torsion angle in dogs with isolated mitral regurgitation.

    PubMed

    Pat, Betty; Chen, Yuanwen; Killingsworth, Cheryl; Gladden, James D; Shi, Ke; Zheng, Junying; Powell, Pamela C; Walcott, Greg; Ahmed, Mustafa I; Gupta, Himanshu; Desai, Ravi; Wei, Chih-Chang; Hase, Naoki; Kobayashi, Tsunefumi; Sabri, Abdelkarim; Granzier, Henk; Denney, Thomas; Tillson, Michael; Dillon, A Ray; Husain, Ahsan; Dell'italia, Louis J

    2010-10-12

    The left ventricular (LV) dilatation of isolated mitral regurgitation (MR) is associated with an increase in chymase and a decrease in interstitial collagen and extracellular matrix. In addition to profibrotic effects, chymase has significant antifibrotic actions because it activates matrix metalloproteinases and kallikrein and degrades fibronectin. Thus, we hypothesize that chymase inhibitor (CI) will attenuate extracellular matrix loss and LV remodeling in MR. We studied dogs with 4 months of untreated MR (MR; n=9) or MR treated with CI (MR+CI; n=8). Cine MRI demonstrated a >40% increase in LV end-diastolic volume in both groups, consistent with a failure of CI to improve a 25% decrease in interstitial collagen in MR. However, LV cardiomyocyte fractional shortening was decreased in MR versus normal dogs (3.71±0.24% versus 4.81±0.31%; P<0.05) and normalized in MR+CI dogs (4.85±0.44%). MRI with tissue tagging demonstrated an increase in LV torsion angle in MR+CI versus MR dogs. CI normalized the significant decrease in fibronectin and FAK phosphorylation and prevented cardiomyocyte myofibrillar degeneration in MR dogs. In addition, total titin and its stiffer isoform were increased in the LV epicardium and paralleled the changes in fibronectin and FAK phosphorylation in MR+CI dogs. These results suggest that chymase disrupts cell surface-fibronectin connections and FAK phosphorylation that can adversely affect cardiomyocyte myofibrillar structure and function. The greater effect of CI on epicardial versus endocardial titin and noncollagen cell surface proteins may be responsible for the increase in torsion angle in chronic MR.

  14. Relief of mitral leaflet tethering following chronic myocardial infarction by chordal cutting diminishes left ventricular remodeling.

    PubMed

    Messas, Emmanuel; Bel, Alain; Szymanski, Catherine; Cohen, Iris; Touchot, Bernard; Handschumacher, Mark D; Desnos, Michel; Carpentier, Alain; Menasché, Philippe; Hagège, Albert A; Levine, Robert A

    2010-11-01

    one of the key targets in treating mitral regurgitation (MR) is reducing the otherwise progressive left ventricular (LV) remodeling that exacerbates MR and conveys adverse prognosis. We have previously demonstrated that severing 2 second-order chordae to the anterior mitral leaflet relieves tethering and ischemic MR acutely. The purpose of this study was to test whether this technique reduces the progression of LV remodeling in the chronic ischemic MR setting. a posterolateral MI was created in 18 sheep by obtuse marginal branch ligation. After chronic remodeling and MR development at 3 months, 6 sheep were randomized to sham surgery (control group) and 12 to second-order chordal cutting (6 each to anterior leaflet [AntL] and bileaflet [BiL] chordal cutting, techniques that are in clinical application). At baseline, chronic infarction (3 months), and follow-up at a mean of 6.6 months post-myocardial infarction (MI) (euthanasia), we measured LV end-diastolic (EDV) and end-systolic volume (ESV), ejection fraction, wall motion score index, and posterior leaflet (PL) restriction angle relative to the annulus by 2D and 3D echocardiography. All measurements were comparable among groups at baseline and chronic MI. At euthanasia, AntL and BiL chordal cutting limited the progressive remodeling seen in controls. LVESV increased relative to chronic MI by 109±8.7% in controls versus 30.5±6.1% with chordal cutting (P<0.01) (LVESV in controls, 82.5±2.6 mL; in AntL, 60.6±5.1 mL; in BiL, 61.8±4.1 mL). LVEDV increased by 63±2.0% in controls versus 26±5.5% and 22±3.4% with chordal cutting (P<0.01). LV ejection fraction and wall motion score index were not significantly different at follow-up among the chordal cutting and control groups. MR progressively increased to moderate in controls but decreased to trace-mild with AntL and BiL chordal cutting (MR vena contracta in controls, 5.9±1.1 mm; in AntL, 2.6±0.1 mm; in BiL, 1.7±0.1 mm; P<0.01). BiL chordal cutting provided

  15. Spironolactone differently influences remodeling of the left ventricle and aorta in L-NAME-induced hypertension.

    PubMed

    Simko, F; Matúsková, J; Lupták, I; Pincíková, T; Krajcírovicová, K; Stvrtina, S; Pomsár, J; Pelouch, V; Paulis, L; Pechánová, O

    2007-01-01

    Aldosterone receptor antagonist, spironolactone, has been shown to prevent remodeling of the heart in several models of left ventricular hypertrophy. The aim of the present study was to determine whether the treatment with spironolactone can prevent hypertension, reduction of tissue nitric oxide synthase activity and left ventricular (LV) and aortic remodeling in N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)-induced hypertension. Four groups of rats were investigated: control, spironolactone (200 mg/kg), L-NAME (40 mg/kg) and L-NAME + spironolactone (in corresponding dosage). Animals were studied after 5 weeks of treatment. The decrease of NO-synthase activity in the LV and kidney was associated with the development of hypertension and LV hypertrophy, with increased DNA concentration in the LV, and remodeling of the aorta in the L-NAME group. Spironolactone prevented the inhibition of NO-synthase activity in the LV and kidney and partially attenuated hypertension and LVH development and the increase in DNA concentration. However, remodeling of the aorta was not prevented by spironolactone treatment. We conclude that the aldosterone receptor antagonist spironolactone improved nitric oxide production and partially prevented hypertension and LVH development without preventing hypertrophy of the aorta in NO-deficient hypertension. The reactive growth of the heart and aorta seems to be controlled by different mechanisms in L-NAME-induced hypertension.

  16. Sildenafil ameliorates left ventricular T-tubule remodeling in a pressure overload-induced murine heart failure model

    PubMed Central

    Huang, Chun-kai; Chen, Bi-yi; Guo, Ang; Chen, Rong; Zhu, Yan-qi; Kutschke, William; Hong, Jiang; Song, Long-sheng

    2016-01-01

    Aim: Sildenafil, a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, has been shown to exert beneficial effects in heart failure. The purpose of this study was to test whether sildenafil suppressed transverse-tubule (T-tubule) remodeling in left ventricular (LV) failure and thereby providing the therapeutic benefits. Methods: A pressure overload-induced murine heart failure model was established in mice by thoracic aortic banding (TAB). One day after TAB, the mice received sildenafil (100 mg·kg−1·d−1, sc) or saline for 5 weeks. At the end of treatment, echocardiography was used to examine LV function. Then the intact hearts were dissected out and placed in Langendorff-perfusion chamber for in situ confocal imaging of T-tubule ultrastructure from epicardial myocytes. Results: TAB surgery resulted in heart failure accompanied by remarkable T-tubule remodeling. Sildenafil treatment significantly attenuated TAB-induced cardiac hypertrophy and congestive heart failure, improved LV contractile function, and preserved T-tubule integrity in LV cardiomyocytes. But sildenafil treatment did not significantly affect the chamber dilation. The integrity of LV T-tubule structure was correlated with cardiac hypertrophy (R2=0.74, P<0.01) and global LV function (R2=0.47, P<0.01). Conclusion: Sildenafil effectively ameliorates LV T-tubule remodeling in TAB mice, revealing a novel mechanism underlying the therapeutic benefits of sildenafil in heart failure. PMID:26972492

  17. Cardiac remodeling and dysfunction in childhood obesity: a cardiovascular magnetic resonance study.

    PubMed

    Jing, Linyuan; Binkley, Cassi M; Suever, Jonathan D; Umasankar, Nivedita; Haggerty, Christopher M; Rich, Jennifer; Wehner, Gregory J; Hamlet, Sean M; Powell, David K; Radulescu, Aurelia; Kirchner, H Lester; Epstein, Frederick H; Fornwalt, Brandon K

    2016-05-11

    Obesity affects nearly one in five children and is associated with increased risk of premature death. Obesity-related heart disease contributes to premature death. We aimed to use cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) to comprehensively characterize the changes in cardiac geometry and function in obese children. Forty-one obese/overweight (age 12 ± 3 years, 56 % female) and 29 healthy weight children (age 14 ± 3 years, 41 % female) underwent CMR, including both standard cine imaging and displacement encoded imaging, for a complete assessment of left ventricular (LV) structure and function. After adjusting for age, LV mass index was 23 % greater (27 ± 4 g/m(2.7) vs 22 ± 3 g/m(2.7), p <0.001) and the LV myocardium was 10 % thicker (5.6 ± 0.8 mm vs 5.1 ± 0.8 mm, p <0.001) in the obese/overweight children. This evidence of cardiac remodeling was present in obese children as young as age 8. Twenty four percent of obese/overweight children had concentric hypertrophy, 59 % had normal geometry and 17 % had either eccentric hypertrophy or concentric remodeling. LV mass index, thickness, ejection fraction and peak longitudinal and circumferential strains all correlated with epicardial adipose tissue after adjusting for height and gender (all p <0.05). Peak longitudinal and circumferential strains showed a significant relationship with the type of LV remodeling, and were most impaired in children with concentric hypertrophy (p <0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively). Obese children show evidence of significant cardiac remodeling and dysfunction, which begins as young as age 8. Obese children with concentric hypertrophy and impaired strain may represent a particularly high risk subgroup that demands further investigation.

  18. Predictors of Left Ventricular Remodeling After Myocardial Infarction in Patients With a Patent Infarct Related Coronary Artery After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (from the Post-Myocardial Infarction Remodeling Prevention Therapy [PRomPT] Trial).

    PubMed

    Garber, Leonid; McAndrew, Thomas C; Chung, Eugene S; Stancak, Branislav; Svendsen, Jesper H; Monteiro, Joao; Fischer, Trent M; Kueffer, Fred; Ryan, Thomas; Bax, Jeroen; Leon, Angel R; Stone, Gregg W

    2018-06-01

    Left ventricular (LV) remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI) is a strong predictor of heart failure and mortality. The predictors of long-term remodeling after MI have been incompletely studied. We therefore examined the correlates of LV remodeling in patients with large ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and a patent infarct artery after percutaneous 2coronary intervention (PCI) from the randomized Post-Myocardial Infarction Remodeling Prevention Therapy trial. Peri-infarct pacing had a neutral effect on long-term remodeling in patients with large first MI. The present analysis includes 109 patients in whom an open artery was restored after PCI, and in whom LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) at baseline and 18 months was assessed by transthoracic echocardiography. Multivariable models were fit to identify the independent predictors of LVEDV at baseline and 18 months. By multivariable analysis, male sex (p = 0.004) and anterior MI location (p = 0.03) were independently associated with baseline LVEDV. The following variables were independent predictors of increased LVEDV at 18 months: younger age (p = 0.01), male sex (p = 0.03), peak creatine phosphokinase (p = 0.03), shorter time from MI to baseline transthoracic echocardiography (p = 0.04), baseline LVEDV (p < 0.0001), and lack of statin use (p = 0.03). In conclusion, patients with large MI and an open infarct artery after PCI, anterior MI location, and male sex were associated with greater baseline LVEDV, but MI location was not associated with 18-month LVEDV. In contrast, younger age, peak creatine phosphokinase, male sex, baseline LVEDV, and lack of statin use were associated with long-term LV remodeling. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Targeted Injection of a Biocomposite Material Alters Macrophage and Fibroblast Phenotype and Function following Myocardial Infarction: Relation to Left Ventricular Remodeling

    PubMed Central

    McGarvey, Jeremy R.; Pettaway, Sara; Shuman, James A.; Novack, Craig P.; Zellars, Kia N.; Freels, Parker D.; Echols, Randall L.; Burdick, Jason A.; Gorman, Joseph H.; Gorman, Robert C.

    2014-01-01

    A treatment target for progressive left ventricular (LV) remodeling prevention following myocardial infarction (MI) is to affect structural changes directly within the MI region. One approach is through targeted injection of biocomposite materials, such as calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres (CHAM), into the MI region. In this study, the effects of CHAM injections upon key cell types responsible for the MI remodeling process, the macrophage and fibroblast, were examined. MI was induced in adult pigs before randomization to CHAM injections (20 targeted 0.1-ml injections within MI region) or saline. At 7 or 21 days post-MI (n = 6/time point per group), cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was performed, followed by macrophage and fibroblast isolation. Isolated macrophage profiles for monocyte chemotactic macrophage inflammatory protein-1 as measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction increased at 7 days post-MI in the CHAM group compared with MI only (16.3 ± 6.6 versus 1.7 ± 0.6 cycle times values, P < 0.05), and were similar by 21 days post-MI. Temporal changes in fibroblast function and smooth muscle actin (SMA) expression relative to referent control (n = 5) occurred with MI. CHAM induced increases in fibroblast proliferation, migration, and SMA expression—indicative of fibroblast transformation. By 21 days, CHAM reduced LV dilation (diastolic volume: 75 ± 2 versus 97 ± 4 ml) and increased function (ejection fraction: 48 ± 2% versus 38 ± 2%) compared with MI only (both P < 0.05). This study identified that effects on macrophage and fibroblast differentiation occurred with injection of biocomposite material within the MI, which translated into reduced adverse LV remodeling. These unique findings demonstrate that biomaterial injections impart biologic effects upon the MI remodeling process over any biophysical effects. PMID:25022514

  20. Severity of structural and functional right ventricular remodeling depends on training load in an experimental model of endurance exercise.

    PubMed

    Sanz-de la Garza, Maria; Rubies, Cira; Batlle, Montserrat; Bijnens, Bart H; Mont, Lluis; Sitges, Marta; Guasch, Eduard

    2017-09-01

    Arrhythmogenic right ventricular (RV) remodeling has been reported in response to regular training, but it remains unclear how exercise intensity affects the presence and extent of such remodeling. We aimed to assess the relationship between RV remodeling and exercise load in a long-term endurance training model. Wistar rats were conditioned to run at moderate (MOD; 45 min, 30 cm/s) or intense (INT; 60 min, 60 cm/s) workloads for 16 wk; sedentary rats served as controls. Cardiac remodeling was assessed with standard echocardiographic and tissue Doppler techniques, sensor-tip pressure catheters, and pressure-volume loop analyses. After MOD training, both ventricles similarly dilated (~16%); the RV apical segment deformation, but not the basal segment deformation, was increased [apical strain rate (SR): -2.9 ± 0.5 vs. -3.3 ± 0.6 s -1 , SED vs. MOD]. INT training prompted marked RV dilatation (~26%) but did not further dilate the left ventricle (LV). A reduction in both RV segments' deformation in INT rats (apical SR: -3.3 ± 0.6 vs. -3.0 ± 0.4 s -1 and basal SR: -3.3 ± 0.7 vs. -2.7 ± 0.6 s -1 , MOD vs. INT) led to decreased global contractile function (maximal rate of rise of LV pressure: 2.53 ± 0.15 vs. 2.17 ± 0.116 mmHg/ms, MOD vs. INT). Echocardiography and hemodynamics consistently pointed to impaired RV diastolic function in INT rats. LV systolic and diastolic functions remained unchanged in all groups. In conclusion, we showed a biphasic, unbalanced RV remodeling response with increasing doses of exercise: physiological adaptation after MOD training turns adverse with INT training, involving disproportionate RV dilatation, decreased contractility, and impaired diastolic function. Our findings support the existence of an exercise load threshold beyond which cardiac remodeling becomes maladaptive. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Exercise promotes left ventricular eccentric hypertrophy with no changes in systolic or diastolic function in healthy rats. Conversely, right

  1. Prognostic heterogeneity of diastolic abnormalities along left ventricular remodeling continuum according to survival rates and laser polarimetry of blood

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Boychuk, T. M.; Ivashchuk, O. I.; Kolomoiets, M. Y.; Mikhaliev, K. O.; Chursina, T. Y.

    2011-09-01

    The results of examination of 35 arterial hypertension and coronary heart disease patients are presented. The clinical, paraclinical and echocardiographic examinations were performed, and the parameters of prognosis (survival) according to Seattle Heart Failure Model, as well as the optical (polarimetric) properties of erythrocytic suspension were determined. The group of patients under examination was stratified by patterns of remodeling of left ventricle (LV). It was determined that increasing of anisotropy of erythrocytic suspension along LV remodeling patterns continuum correlates with aggravation of structural and functional state of LV and is associated with unfavorable prognosis.

  2. Thyroid-stimulating hormone and adverse left ventricular remodeling following ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Reindl, Martin; Feistritzer, Hans-Josef; Reinstadler, Sebastian Johannes; Mueller, Lukas; Tiller, Christina; Brenner, Christoph; Mayr, Agnes; Henninger, Benjamin; Mair, Johannes; Klug, Gert; Metzler, Bernhard

    2018-04-01

    Adverse left ventricular remodeling is one of the major determinants of heart failure and mortality in patients surviving ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis is a key cardiovascular regulator; however, the relationship between hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid status and post-STEMI left ventricular remodeling is unclear. We aimed to investigate the association between thyroid-stimulating hormone concentrations and the development of left ventricular remodeling following reperfused STEMI. In this prospective observational study of 102 consecutive STEMI patients, thyroid-stimulating hormone levels were measured at the first day after infarction and 4 months thereafter. Cardiac magnetic resonance scans were performed within the first week as well as at 4 months follow-up to determine infarct characteristics, myocardial function and as primary endpoint left ventricular remodeling, defined as a 20% or greater increase in left ventricular end-diastolic volume. Patients with left ventricular remodeling ( n=15, 15%) showed significantly lower concentrations of baseline (1.20 [0.92-1.91] vs. 1.73 [1.30-2.60] mU/l; P=0.02) and follow-up (1.11 [0.86-1.28] vs. 1.51 [1.15-2.02] mU/l; P=0.002) thyroid-stimulating hormone. The association between baseline thyroid-stimulating hormone and left ventricular remodeling remained significant after adjustment for major clinical (peak high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T and C-reactive protein, heart rate; odds ratio (OR) 5.33, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.52-18.63; P=0.01) and cardiac magnetic resonance predictors of left ventricular remodeling (infarct size, microvascular obstruction, ejection fraction; OR 4.59, 95% CI 1.36-15.55; P=0.01). Furthermore, chronic thyroid-stimulating hormone was related to left ventricular remodeling independently of chronic left ventricular remodeling correlates (infarct size, ejection fraction, left ventricular end-diastolic volume, left ventricular

  3. Improvement of left ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction with eight weeks L-thyroxine treatment in rats.

    PubMed

    Chen, Yue-Feng; Weltman, Nathan Y; Li, Xiang; Youmans, Steven; Krause, David; Gerdes, Anthony Martin

    2013-02-14

    Left ventricular (LV) remodeling following large transmural myocardial infarction (MI) remains a pivotal clinical issue despite the advance of medical treatment over the past few decades. Identification of new medications to improve the remodeling process and prevent progression to heart failure after MI is critical. Thyroid hormones (THs) have been shown to improve LV function and remodeling in animals post-MI and in the human setting. However, changes in underlying cellular remodeling resulting from TH treatment are not clear. MI was produced in adult female Sprague-Dawley rats by ligation of the left descending coronary artery. L-thyroxine (T4) pellet (3.3 mg, 60 days sustained release) was used to treat MI rats for 8 weeks. Isolated myocyte shape, arterioles, and collagen deposition in the non-infarcted area were measured at terminal study. T4 treatment improved LV ±dp/dt, normalized TAU, and increased myocyte cross-sectional area without further increasing myocyte length in MI rats. T4 treatment increased the total LV tissue area by 34%, increased the non-infarcted tissue area by 41%, and increased the thickness of non-infarcted area by 36% in MI rats. However, myocyte volume accounted for only ~1/3 of the increase in myocyte mass in the non-infarct area, indicating the presence of more myocytes with treatment. T4 treatment tended to increase the total length of smaller arterioles (5 to 15 μm) proportional to LV weight increase and also decreased collagen deposition in the LV non-infarcted area. A tendency for increased metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) expression and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) -1 to -4 expression was also observed in T4 treated MI rats. These results suggest that long-term T4 treatment after MI has beneficial effects on myocyte, arteriolar, and collagen matrix remodeling in the non-infarcted area. Most importantly, results suggest improved survival of myocytes in the peri-infarct area.

  4. The sirtuin1 gene associates with left ventricular myocardial hypertrophy and remodeling in two chronic kidney disease cohorts: a longitudinal study.

    PubMed

    Spoto, Belinda; Ntounousi, Evangelia; Testa, Alessandra; Liakopoulos, Vassilios; D'Arrigo, Graziella; Tripepi, Giovanni; Parlongo, Rosa M; Sanguedolce, Maria C; Mallamaci, Francesca; Zoccali, Carmine

    2018-04-26

    Oxidative stress and inflammation are major drivers of myocardial hypertrophy in chronic kidney disease (CKD). The silent information regulator gene 1 (Sirt1) is a fundamental mediator of the response to oxidative stress and inflammation and promotes myocardial growth under stress conditions; therefore, it may contribute to myocardial hypertrophy and concentric remodeling of the left ventricle (LV) in CKD. We investigated the cross-sectional and longitudinal relationship between three candidate polymorphisms in the Sirt1 gene and LV parameters in two cohorts of CKD patients including 235 stage G5D patients and 179 stages G1-5 patients, respectively. In both cohorts, the C allele of the Sirt1 rs7069102 polymorphism associated with the posterior wall thickness in separate and combined analyses (beta = 0.15, P = 2 × 10) but was unrelated with the LV volume and the LV mass index indicating a peculiar association of this allele with LV concentric remodeling. Accordingly, the same allele was linked with the LV mass-to-volume ratio in separate and combined (beta = 0.14, P = 2 × 10) analyses in the same cohorts. Furthermore, in longitudinal analyses patients harboring the C allele showed a more pronounced increase in LV mass-to-volume ratio over time than patients without such an allele (regression coefficient = 0.14, 95% confidence interval: 0.05-0.23; P = 3 × 10 in the combined analysis). The rs7069102 polymorphism in the Sirt1 gene is associated with LV concentric remodeling in two independent cohorts of stages G5D and G1-5 CKD patients. These results offer a genetic basis to the hypothesis that the Sirt1 gene plays a causal role in myocardial hypertrophy and LV concentric remodeling in these patients.

  5. Left ventricular torsion assessed by two-dimensional echocardiography speckle tracking as a predictor of left ventricular remodeling and short-term outcome following primary percutaneous coronary intervention for acute myocardial infarction: A single-center experience.

    PubMed

    Awadalla, Hany; Saleh, Mohamed Ayman; Abdel Kader, Mohamed; Mansour, Amr

    2017-08-01

    Left ventricular (LV) torsion is a novel method to assess systolic LV function. This study aimed at exploring the utility of 2D speckle tracking-based assessment of left ventricular torsion in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) undertaking primary percutaneous intervention (pPCI) in predicting left ventricular remodeling. The study included 115 patients (mean±SD, age 52.2±9.67, males 84.3%) who underwent pPCI for AMI. Echocardiographic assessment of LV torsion by two-dimensional speckle tracking was performed early after the index pPCI. Patients underwent repeat echocardiography at 6 months to detect remodeling. LV torsion in the acute setting was significantly lower in those who demonstrated LV remodeling at follow-up compared to those without remodeling (7.56±1.95 vs 15.16±4.65; P<.005). Multivariate analysis identified peak CK & CK-MB elevation (β=-0.767 and -0.725; P<.001), SWMA index (β=-0.843; P<.001), and Simpson's derived LV ejection fraction (LVEF; β=0.802; P<.001) as independent predictors of baseline LV torsion. It also identified peak LV torsion (β: 0.27; 95% CI: 0.15-0.5, P=.001) and SWMA index (β: 1.07, 95% CI: 1.03-1.12, P=.005) as independent predictors of LV remodeling. Baseline Killip's grades II and higher (β: 48.6; 95% CI 5.5-428, P<.001) and diabetes mellitus (β: 29.7; 95% CI 1.1-763, P<.05) were independent predictors of mortality. Left ventricular torsion in acute MI setting is impaired and predicts subsequent LV remodeling at 6-month follow-up. © 2017, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  6. Substance P induces adverse myocardial remodelling via a mechanism involving cardiac mast cells.

    PubMed

    Meléndez, Giselle C; Li, Jianping; Law, Brittany A; Janicki, Joseph S; Supowit, Scott C; Levick, Scott P

    2011-12-01

    Substance P and neurokinin A (NKA) are sensory nerve neuropeptides encoded by the TAC1 gene. Substance P is a mast cell secretagogue and mast cells are known to play a role in adverse myocardial remodelling. Therefore, we wondered whether substance P and/or NKA modulates myocardial remodelling via a mast cell-mediated mechanism. Volume overload was induced by aortocaval fistula in TAC1(-/-) mice and their respective wild types. Left ventricular internal diameter of wild-type (WT) fistulas increased by 31.9%; this was prevented in TAC1(-/-) mice (4.2%). Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity was significantly increased in WT fistula mice and was prevented in TAC1(-/-) mice. Myocardial collagen volume fraction was decreased in WT fistula mice; this collagen degradation was not observed in the TAC1(-/-) group. There were no significant differences between any groups in tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α or cell death. Cardiac mast cells were isolated from rat hearts and stimulated with substance P or NKA. We found that these cells degranulated only to substance P, via the neurokinin-1 receptor. To determine the effect of substance P on mast cells in vivo, volume overload was created in Sprague-Dawley rats treated with the NK-1 receptor antagonist L732138 (5 mg/kg/day) for a period of 3 days. L732138 prevented: (i) increases in cardiac mast cell density; (ii) increased myocardial TNF-α; and (iii) collagen degradation. Our studies suggest that substance P may be important in mediating adverse myocardial remodelling secondary to volume overload by activating cardiac mast cells, leading to increased TNF-α and MMP activation with subsequent degradation of the extracellular matrix.

  7. THE REAL ESTATE OF MYOBLAST CARDIAC TRANSPLANTATION – NEGATIVE REMODELING IS ASSOCIATED WITH LOCATION

    PubMed Central

    McCue, Jonathan D.; Swingen, Cory; Feldberg, Tanya; Caron, Gabe; Kolb, Adam; Denucci, Christopher; Prabhu, Somnath; Motilall, Randy; Breviu, Brian; Taylor, Doris A.

    2009-01-01

    Background Skeletal myoblast (SKMB) transplantation has been proposed as a therapy for ischemic cardiomyopathy due to its possible role in myogenesis. The relative safety and efficacy based on location within scar is not known. We hypothesized that SKMB transplanted into peripheral scar (compared to central scar) would more effectively attenuate negative left ventricular (LV) remodeling but at the risk of arrhythmia. Methods 34 New Zealand White rabbits underwent mid-left anterior descending artery (LAD) ligation to produce a transmural LV infarction. One month after LAD ligation SKMBs were injected either in the scar center (n=13) or scar periphery (n=10) and compared to saline injection (n=11). Holter monitoring and MRI was performed pre-injection; Holter monitoring was continued until two weeks post injection, with follow-up MRI at one month. Results Centrally-treated animals demonstrated increased LV end systolic volume, end diastolic volume and mass that correlated with injected cell number. There was a trend toward attenuation of negative LV remodeling in peripherally-treated animals compared to vehicle. Significant late ectopy was seen in several centrally-injected animals with no late ectopy seen in peripherally-injected animals. Conclusions We noted untoward effects with respect to negative LV remodeling following central injection, suggesting that transplanted cell location with respect to scar may be a key factor in the safety and efficacy of SKMB cardiac transplantation. Administration of SKMBs into peripheral scar appears safe with a trend toward improved function in comparison to sham injection. PMID:18187097

  8. Ventricular structure, function, and mechanics at high altitude: chronic remodeling in Sherpa vs. short-term lowlander adaptation.

    PubMed

    Stembridge, Mike; Ainslie, Philip N; Hughes, Michael G; Stöhr, Eric J; Cotter, James D; Nio, Amanda Q X; Shave, Rob

    2014-08-01

    Short-term, high-altitude (HA) exposure raises pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) and decreases left-ventricular (LV) volumes. However, relatively little is known of the long-term cardiac consequences of prolonged exposure in Sherpa, a highly adapted HA population. To investigate short-term adaptation and potential long-term cardiac remodeling, we studied ventricular structure and function in Sherpa at 5,050 m (n = 11; 31 ± 13 yr; mass 68 ± 10 kg; height 169 ± 6 cm) and lowlanders at sea level (SL) and following 10 ± 3 days at 5,050 m (n = 9; 34 ± 7 yr; mass 82 ± 10 kg; height 177 ± 6 cm) using conventional and speckle-tracking echocardiography. At HA, PASP was higher in Sherpa and lowlanders compared with lowlanders at SL (both P < 0.05). Sherpa had smaller right-ventricular (RV) and LV stroke volumes than lowlanders at SL with lower RV systolic strain (P < 0.05) but similar LV systolic mechanics. In contrast to LV systolic mechanics, LV diastolic, untwisting velocity was significantly lower in Sherpa compared with lowlanders at both SL and HA. After partial acclimatization, lowlanders demonstrated no change in the RV end-diastolic area; however, both RV strain and LV end-diastolic volume were reduced. In conclusion, short-term hypoxia induced a reduction in RV systolic function that was also evident in Sherpa following chronic exposure. We propose that this was consequent to a persistently higher PASP. In contrast to the RV, remodeling of LV volumes and normalization of systolic mechanics indicate structural and functional adaptation to HA. However, altered LV diastolic relaxation after chronic hypoxic exposure may reflect differential remodeling of systolic and diastolic LV function. Copyright © 2014 the American Physiological Society.

  9. Ventricular structure, function, and mechanics at high altitude: chronic remodeling in Sherpa vs. short-term lowlander adaptation

    PubMed Central

    Ainslie, Philip N.; Hughes, Michael G.; Stöhr, Eric J.; Cotter, James D.; Nio, Amanda Q. X.; Shave, Rob

    2014-01-01

    Short-term, high-altitude (HA) exposure raises pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) and decreases left-ventricular (LV) volumes. However, relatively little is known of the long-term cardiac consequences of prolonged exposure in Sherpa, a highly adapted HA population. To investigate short-term adaptation and potential long-term cardiac remodeling, we studied ventricular structure and function in Sherpa at 5,050 m (n = 11; 31 ± 13 yr; mass 68 ± 10 kg; height 169 ± 6 cm) and lowlanders at sea level (SL) and following 10 ± 3 days at 5,050 m (n = 9; 34 ± 7 yr; mass 82 ± 10 kg; height 177 ± 6 cm) using conventional and speckle-tracking echocardiography. At HA, PASP was higher in Sherpa and lowlanders compared with lowlanders at SL (both P < 0.05). Sherpa had smaller right-ventricular (RV) and LV stroke volumes than lowlanders at SL with lower RV systolic strain (P < 0.05) but similar LV systolic mechanics. In contrast to LV systolic mechanics, LV diastolic, untwisting velocity was significantly lower in Sherpa compared with lowlanders at both SL and HA. After partial acclimatization, lowlanders demonstrated no change in the RV end-diastolic area; however, both RV strain and LV end-diastolic volume were reduced. In conclusion, short-term hypoxia induced a reduction in RV systolic function that was also evident in Sherpa following chronic exposure. We propose that this was consequent to a persistently higher PASP. In contrast to the RV, remodeling of LV volumes and normalization of systolic mechanics indicate structural and functional adaptation to HA. However, altered LV diastolic relaxation after chronic hypoxic exposure may reflect differential remodeling of systolic and diastolic LV function. PMID:24876358

  10. The real estate of myoblast cardiac transplantation: negative remodeling is associated with location.

    PubMed

    McCue, Jonathan D; Swingen, Cory; Feldberg, Tanya; Caron, Gabe; Kolb, Adam; Denucci, Christopher; Prabhu, Somnath; Motilall, Randy; Breviu, Brian; Taylor, Doris A

    2008-01-01

    Skeletal myoblast transplantation has been proposed as a therapy for ischemic cardiomyopathy owing to its possible role in myogenesis. The relative safety and efficacy based on location within scar is not known. We hypothesized that skeletal myoblasts transplanted into peripheral scar (compared with central scar) would more effectively attenuate negative left ventricular (LV) remodeling but at the risk of arrhythmia. New Zealand White rabbits (n = 34) underwent mid-left anterior descending artery (LAD) ligation to produce a transmural LV infarction. One month after LAD ligation, skeletal myoblasts were injected either in the scar center (n = 13) or scar periphery (n = 10) and compared with saline injection (n = 11). Holter monitoring and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed pre-injection; Holter monitoring was continued until 2 weeks after injection, with follow-up MRI at 1 month. The centrally treated animals demonstrated increased LV end-systolic volume, end-diastolic volume, and mass that correlated with the number of injected cells. There was a trend toward attenuation of negative LV remodeling in peripherally treated animals compared with vehicle. Significant late ectopy was seen in several centrally injected animals, with no late ectopy seen in peripherally injected animals. We noted untoward effects with respect to negative LV remodeling after central injection, suggesting that transplanted cell location with respect to scar may be a key factor in the safety and efficacy of skeletal myoblast cardiac transplantation. Administration of skeletal myoblasts into peripheral scar appears safe, with a trend toward improved function in comparison with sham injection.

  11. Evaluation of Aortic Blood Flow and Wall Shear Stress in Aortic Stenosis and Its Association With Left Ventricular Remodeling.

    PubMed

    von Knobelsdorff-Brenkenhoff, Florian; Karunaharamoorthy, Achudhan; Trauzeddel, Ralf Felix; Barker, Alex J; Blaszczyk, Edyta; Markl, Michael; Schulz-Menger, Jeanette

    2016-03-01

    Aortic stenosis (AS) leads to variable stress for the left ventricle (LV) and consequently a broad range of LV remodeling. The aim of this study was to describe blood flow patterns in the ascending aorta of patients with AS and determine their association with remodeling. Thirty-seven patients with AS (14 mild, 8 moderate, 15 severe; age, 63±13 years) and 37 healthy controls (age, 60±10 years) underwent 4-dimensional-flow magnetic resonance imaging. Helical and vortical flow formations and flow eccentricity were assessed in the ascending aorta. Normalized flow displacement from the vessel center and peak systolic wall shear stress in the ascending aorta were quantified. LV remodeling was assessed based on LV mass index and the ratio of LV mass:end-diastolic volume (relative wall mass). Marked helical and vortical flow formation and eccentricity were more prevalent in patients with AS than in healthy subjects, and patients with AS exhibited an asymmetrical and elevated distribution of peak systolic wall shear stress. In AS, aortic orifice area was strongly negatively associated with vortical flow formation (P=0.0274), eccentricity (P=0.0070), and flow displacement (P=0.0021). Bicuspid aortic valve was associated with more intense helical (P=0.0098) and vortical flow formation (P=0.0536), higher flow displacement (P=0.11), and higher peak systolic wall shear stress (P=0.0926). LV mass index and relative wall mass were significantly associated with aortic orifice area (P=0.0611, P=0.0058) and flow displacement (P=0.0058, P=0.0283). In this pilot study, AS leads to abnormal blood flow pattern and peak systolic wall shear stress in the ascending aorta. In addition to aortic orifice area, normalized flow displacement was significantly associated with LV remodeling. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

  12. Exposure to chronic alcohol accelerates development of wall stress and eccentric remodeling in rats with volume overload.

    PubMed

    Mouton, Alan J; Ninh, Van K; El Hajj, Elia C; El Hajj, Milad C; Gilpin, Nicholas W; Gardner, Jason D

    2016-08-01

    Chronic alcohol abuse is one of the leading causes of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in the United States. Volume overload (VO) also produces DCM characterized by left ventricular (LV) dilatation and reduced systolic and diastolic function, eventually progressing to congestive heart failure. For this study, we hypothesized that chronic alcohol exposure would exacerbate cardiac dysfunction and remodeling due to VO. Aortocaval fistula surgery was used to induce VO, and compensatory cardiac remodeling was allowed to progress for either 3days (acute) or 8weeks (chronic). Alcohol was administered via chronic intermittent ethanol vapor (EtOH) for 2weeks before the acute study and for the duration of the 8week chronic study. Temporal alterations in LV function were assessed by echocardiography. At the 8week end point, pressure-volume loop analysis was performed by LV catheterization and cardiac tissue collected. EtOH did not exacerbate LV dilatation (end-systolic and diastolic diameter) or systolic dysfunction (fractional shortening, ejection fraction) due to VO. The combined stress of EtOH and VO decreased the eccentric index (posterior wall thickness to end-diastolic diameter ratio), increased end-diastolic pressure (EDP), and elevated diastolic wall stress. VO also led to increases in posterior wall thickness, which was not observed in the VO+EtOH group, and wall thickness significantly correlated with LV BNP expression. VO alone led to increases in interstitial collagen staining (picrosirius red), which while not statistically significant, tended to be decreased by EtOH. VO increased LV collagen I protein expression, whereas in rats with VO+EtOH, LV collagen I was not elevated relative to Sham. The combination of VO and EtOH also led to increases in LV collagen III expression relative to Sham. Rats with VO+EtOH had significantly lower collagen I/III ratio than rats with VO alone. During the acute remodeling phase of VO (3days), VO significantly increased collagen III

  13. Substance P induces adverse myocardial remodelling via a mechanism involving cardiac mast cells

    PubMed Central

    Meléndez, Giselle C.; Li, Jianping; Law, Brittany A.; Janicki, Joseph S.; Supowit, Scott C.; Levick, Scott P.

    2011-01-01

    Aims Substance P and neurokinin A (NKA) are sensory nerve neuropeptides encoded by the TAC1 gene. Substance P is a mast cell secretagogue and mast cells are known to play a role in adverse myocardial remodelling. Therefore, we wondered whether substance P and/or NKA modulates myocardial remodelling via a mast cell-mediated mechanism. Methods and results Volume overload was induced by aortocaval fistula in TAC1−/− mice and their respective wild types. Left ventricular internal diameter of wild-type (WT) fistulas increased by 31.9%; this was prevented in TAC1−/− mice (4.2%). Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity was significantly increased in WT fistula mice and was prevented in TAC1−/− mice. Myocardial collagen volume fraction was decreased in WT fistula mice; this collagen degradation was not observed in the TAC1−/− group. There were no significant differences between any groups in tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α or cell death. Cardiac mast cells were isolated from rat hearts and stimulated with substance P or NKA. We found that these cells degranulated only to substance P, via the neurokinin-1 receptor. To determine the effect of substance P on mast cells in vivo, volume overload was created in Sprague-Dawley rats treated with the NK-1 receptor antagonist L732138 (5 mg/kg/day) for a period of 3 days. L732138 prevented: (i) increases in cardiac mast cell density; (ii) increased myocardial TNF-α; and (iii) collagen degradation. Conclusions Our studies suggest that substance P may be important in mediating adverse myocardial remodelling secondary to volume overload by activating cardiac mast cells, leading to increased TNF-α and MMP activation with subsequent degradation of the extracellular matrix. PMID:21908647

  14. Hypercholesterolaemia exacerbates ventricular remodelling after myocardial infarction in the rat: role of angiotensin II type 1 receptors

    PubMed Central

    Mączewski, M; Mączewska, J; Duda, M

    2008-01-01

    Background and purpose: Diet-induced hypercholesterolaemia exacerbates post-myocardial infarction (MI) ventricular remodelling and heart failure, but the mechanism of this phenomenon remains unknown. This study examined whether worsening of post-MI ventricular remodelling induced by dietary hypercholesterolaemia was related to upregulation of angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor in the rat heart. Experimental approach: MI was induced surgically in rats fed normal or high cholesterol diet. Both groups of rats were then assigned to control, atorvastatin, losartan or atorvastatin+losartan-treated subgroups and followed for 8 weeks. Left ventricular (LV) function was assessed with echocardiography. In isolated hearts, LV pressures were measured with a latex balloon and a tip catheter. AT1-receptor density was assessed in LV membranes with radioligand-binding assays. Key results: High cholesterol diet exacerbated LV dilation and dysfunction in post-MI hearts. Atorvastatin or losartan prevented these hypercholesterolaemia-induced effects, whereas their combination was not more effective than each drug alone. AT1 receptors were upregulated 8 weeks after MI, this was further increased by hypercholesterolaemia and restored to baseline levels by atorvastatin. Conclusions and implications: Hypercholesterolaemia exacerbated LV remodelling and dysfunction in post-MI rat hearts and upregulated cardiac AT1 receptors. All these effects were effectively prevented by atorvastatin. Thus, the pleiotropic statin effects may include interference with the renin-angiotensin system through downregulation of AT1 receptors. PMID:18536757

  15. Activation of NADPH oxidase mediates increased endoplasmic reticulum stress and left ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction in rabbits.

    PubMed

    Li, Bao; Tian, Jing; Sun, Yi; Xu, Tao-Rui; Chi, Rui-Fang; Zhang, Xiao-Li; Hu, Xin-Ling; Zhang, Yue-An; Qin, Fu-Zhong; Zhang, Wei-Fang

    2015-05-01

    Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide 3-phosphate (NADPH) oxidase activity and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress are increased after myocardial infarction (MI). In this study, we proposed to test whether activation of the NADPH oxidase in the remote non-infarcted myocardium mediates ER stress and left ventricular (LV) remodeling after MI. Rabbits with MI or sham operation were randomly assigned to orally receive an NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin or placebo for 30 days. The agents were administered beginning at 1 week after surgery. MI rabbits exhibited decreases in LV fractional shortening, LV ejection fraction and the first derivative of the LV pressure rise, which were abolished by apocynin treatment. NADPH oxidase Nox2 protein and mRNA expressions were increased in the remote non-infarcted myocardium after MI. Immunolabeling further revealed that Nox2 was increased in cardiac myocytes in the remote myocardium. The apocynin treatment prevented increases in the Nox2 expression, NADPH oxidase activity, oxidative stress, myocyte apoptosis and GRP78, CHOP and cleaved caspase 12 protein expression in the remote myocardium. The apocynin treatment also attenuated increases in myocyte diameter and cardiac fibrosis. In cultured H9C2 cardiomyocytes exposed to angiotensin II, an important stimulus for post-MI remodeling, Nox2 knockdown with siRNA significantly inhibited angiotensin II-induced NADPH oxidase activation, reactive oxygen species and GRP78 and CHOP protein expression. We conclude that NADPH oxidase inhibition attenuates increased ER stress in the remote non-infarcted myocardium and LV remodeling late after MI in rabbits. These findings suggest that the activation of NADPH oxidase in the remote non-infarcted myocardium mediates increased ER stress, contributing to myocyte apoptosis and LV remodeling after MI. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Relationship among LRP1 expression, Pyk2 phosphorylation and MMP-9 activation in left ventricular remodelling after myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Revuelta-López, Elena; Soler-Botija, Carol; Nasarre, Laura; Benitez-Amaro, Aleyda; de Gonzalo-Calvo, David; Bayes-Genis, Antoni; Llorente-Cortés, Vicenta

    2017-09-01

    Left ventricular (LV) remodelling after myocardial infarction (MI) is a crucial determinant of the clinical course of heart failure. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activation is strongly associated with LV remodelling after MI. Elucidation of plasma membrane receptors related to the activation of specific MMPs is fundamental for treating adverse cardiac remodelling after MI. The aim of current investigation was to explore the potential association between the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) and MMP-9 and MMP-2 spatiotemporal expression after MI. Real-time PCR and Western blot analyses showed that LRP1 mRNA and protein expression levels, respectively, were significantly increased in peri-infarct and infarct zones at 10 and 21 days after MI. Confocal microscopy demonstrated high colocalization between LRP1 and the fibroblast marker vimentin, indicating that LRP1 is mostly expressed by cardiac fibroblasts in peri-infarct and infarct areas. LRP1 also colocalized with proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (pPyk2) and MMP-9 in cardiac fibroblasts in ischaemic areas at 10 and 21 days after MI. Cell culture experiments revealed that hypoxia increases LRP1, pPyk2 protein levels and MMP-9 activity in fibroblasts, without significant changes in MMP-2 activity. MMP-9 activation by hypoxia requires LRP1 and Pyk2 phosphorylation in fibroblasts. Collectively, our in vivo and in vitro data support a major role of cardiac fibroblast LRP1 levels on MMP-9 up-regulation associated with ventricular remodelling after MI. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Foundation for Cellular and Molecular Medicine.

  17. Intra-myocardial injection of both growth factors and heart derived Sca-1+/CD31- cells attenuates post-MI LV remodeling more than does cell transplantation alone: neither intervention enhances functionally significant cardiomyocyte regeneration.

    PubMed

    Wang, Xiaohong; Li, Qinglu; Hu, Qingsong; Suntharalingam, Piradeep; From, Arthur H L; Zhang, Jianyi

    2014-01-01

    Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) are two potent cell survival and regenerative factors in response to myocardial injury (MI). We hypothesized that simultaneous delivery of IGF+HGF combined with Sca-1+/CD31- cells would improve the outcome of transplantation therapy in response to the altered hostile microenvironment post MI. One million adenovirus nuclear LacZ-labeled Sca-1+/CD31- cells were injected into the peri-infarction area after left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) ligation in mice. Recombinant mouse IGF-1+HGF was added to the cell suspension prior to the injection. The left ventricular (LV) function was assessed by echocardiography 4 weeks after the transplantation. The cell engraftment, differentiation and cardiomyocyte regeneration were evaluated by histological analysis. Sca-1+/CD31- cells formed viable grafts and improved LV ejection fraction (EF) (Control, 54.5+/-2.4; MI, 17.6+/-3.1; Cell, 28.2+/-4.2, n = 9, P<0.01). IGF+HGF significantly enhanced the benefits of cell transplantation as evidenced by increased EF (38.8+/-2.2; n = 9, P<0.01) and attenuated adverse structural remodeling. Furthermore, IGF+HGF supplementation increased the cell engraftment rate, promoted the transplanted cell survival, enhanced angiogenesis, and minimally stimulated endogenous cardiomyocyte regeneration in vivo. The in vitro experiments showed that IGF+HGF treatment stimulated Sca-1+/CD31- cell proliferation and inhibited serum free medium induced apoptosis. Supperarray profiling of Sca-1+/CD31- cells revealed that Sca-1+/CD31- cells highly expressed various trophic factor mRNAs and IGF+HGF treatment altered the mRNAs expression patterns of these cells. These data indicate that IGF-1+HGF could serve as an adjuvant to cell transplantation for myocardial repair by stimulating donor cell and endogenous cardiac stem cell survival, regeneration and promoting angiogenesis.

  18. Age, Gender and Load-Related Influences on Left Ventricular Geometric Remodeling, Systolic Mid-Wall Function, and NT-ProBNP in Asymptomatic Asian Population.

    PubMed

    Chen, Chi; Sung, Kuo-Tzu; Shih, Shou-Chuan; Liu, Chuan-Chuan; Kuo, Jen-Yuan; Hou, Charles Jia-Yin; Hung, Chung-Lieh; Yeh, Hung-I

    2016-01-01

    Advanced age is associated with left ventricle (LV) remodeling and impaired cardiac function that may increase the risk of heart failure. Even so, studies regarding age-related cardiac remodeling in a large, asymptomatic Asian population remain limited. We studied 8,410 asymptomatic participants (49.7 ±11.7 y, 38.9% women) in a health evaluation cohort (2004-2012) at a tertiary center in Northern Taiwan. We analyzed age-related alterations for all echocardiography-derived cardiac structures/functions and the associations with circulating N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). We also explored sex-related differences in these measures. In our cohort of 8,410 participants, advanced age was associated with greater LV wall thickness, larger LV total mass (+5.08 g/decade), and greater LV mass index (4.41 g/m2/decade), as well as increased serum NT-proBNP level (+18.89 pg/mL/decade). An accompanying reduction of stress-corrected midwall fractional shortening (-0.1%/decade) with aging was apparent in women after multi-variate adjustment (-0.09%/decade, p = 0.001). Furthermore, women demonstrated greater overall increase in LV wall thickness, LV mass index, and NT-proBNP compared to men (p for interaction: <0.001). All blood pressure components, including systolic, diastolic, and pulse pressures were independently associated with greater wall thickness and LV mass index after adjustment for confounders (all p <0.001). The associations between age and cardiac remodeling or mid-wall functions were further confirmed in a subset of study subjects with repeated follow up by GEE model. Significant associations of unfavorable LV remodeling and advanced age in our asymptomatic Asian population were observed, along with sex differences. These data may help explain the incidence of some diverse gender-related cardiovascular diseases, especially heart failure.

  19. Evaluation of Aortic Blood Flow and Wall Shear Stress in Aortic Stenosis and Its Association With Left Ventricular Remodeling

    PubMed Central

    von Knobelsdorff-Brenkenhoff, Florian; Karunaharamoorthy, Achudhan; Trauzeddel, Ralf Felix; Barker, Alex J; Blaszczyk, Edyta; Markl, Michael; Schulz-Menger, Jeanette

    2016-01-01

    Background Aortic stenosis (AS) leads to variable stress for the left ventricle (LV) and consequently a broad range of LV remodeling. Study aim was to describe blood flow patterns in the ascending aorta of AS patients and determine their association with remodeling. Methods and Results Thirty-seven patients with AS (14 mild, 8 moderate, 15 severe; age 63±13 years) and 37 healthy controls (age 60±10 years) underwent 4D-flow MRI. Helical and vortical flow formations and flow eccentricity were assessed in the ascending aorta. Normalized flow displacement from the vessel center and peak systolic wall shear stress (WSSpeak) in the ascending aorta were quantified. LV remodeling was assessed based on LV mass index (LVMI-I) and the ratio of LV mass to enddiastolic volume (relative wall mass; RWM). Marked helical and vortical flow formation and eccentricity were more prevalent in patients with AS than in healthy subjects, and AS patients exhibited an asymmetric and elevated distribution of WSSpeak. In AS, aortic orifice area was strongly negatively associated with vortical flow formation (p=0.0274), eccentricity (p=0.0070) and flow displacement (p=0.0021). Bicuspid aortic valve was associated with more intense helical (p=0.0098) and vortical flow formation (p=0.0536), higher flow displacement (p=0.11) and higher WSSpeak (p=0.0926). LVM-I and RWM were significantly associated with aortic orifice area (p=0.0611, p=0.0058) and flow displacement (p=0.0058, p=0.0283). Conclusions In this pilot study, AS leads to abnormal blood flow pattern and WSSpeak in the ascending aorta. In addition to aortic orifice area, normalized flow displacement was significantly associated with LV remodeling. PMID:26917824

  20. Low intrinsic exercise capacity in rats predisposes to age-dependent cardiac remodeling independent of macrovascular function

    PubMed Central

    Ritchie, Rebecca H.; Leo, Chen Huei; Qin, Chengxue; Stephenson, Erin J.; Bowden, Marissa A.; Buxton, Keith D.; Lessard, Sarah J.; Rivas, Donato A.; Koch, Lauren G.; Britton, Steven L.; Woodman, Owen L.

    2013-01-01

    Rats selectively bred for low (LCR) or high (HCR) intrinsic running capacity simultaneously present with contrasting risk factors for cardiovascular and metabolic disease. However, the impact of these phenotypes on left ventricular (LV) morphology and microvascular function, and their progression with aging, remains unresolved. We tested the hypothesis that the LCR phenotype induces progressive age-dependent LV remodeling and impairments in microvascular function, glucose utilization, and β-adrenergic responsiveness, compared with HCR. Hearts and vessels isolated from female LCR (n = 22) or HCR (n = 26) were studied at 12 and 35 wk. Nonselected N:NIH founder rats (11 wk) were also investigated (n = 12). LCR had impaired glucose tolerance and elevated plasma insulin (but not glucose) and body-mass at 12 wk compared with HCR, with early LV remodeling. By 35 wk, LV prohypertrophic and glucose transporter GLUT4 gene expression were up- and downregulated, respectively. No differences in LV β-adrenoceptor expression or cAMP content between phenotypes were observed. Macrovascular endothelial function was predominantly nitric oxide (NO)-mediated in both phenotypes and remained intact in LCR for both age-groups. In contrast, mesenteric arteries microvascular endothelial function, which was impaired in LCR rats regardless of age. At 35 wk, endothelial-derived hyperpolarizing factor-mediated relaxation was impaired whereas the NO contribution to relaxation is intact. Furthermore, there was reduced β2-adrenoceptor responsiveness in both aorta and mesenteric LCR arteries. In conclusion, diminished intrinsic exercise capacity impairs systemic glucose tolerance and is accompanied by progressive development of LV remodeling. Impaired microvascular perfusion is a likely contributing factor to the cardiac phenotype. PMID:23262135

  1. Timing effect of intramyocardial hydrogel injection for positively impacting left ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction

    PubMed Central

    Yoshizumi, Tomo; Zhu, Yang; Jiang, Hongbin; D’Amore, Antonio; Sakaguchi, Hirokazu; Tchao, Jason; Tobita, Kimimasa; Wagner, William R.

    2016-01-01

    Intramyocardial injection of various injectable hydrogel materials has shown benefit in positively impacting the course of left ventricular (LV) remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI). However, since LV remodeling is a complex, time dependent process, the most efficacious time of hydrogel injection is not clear. In this study, we injected a relatively stiff, thermoresponsive and bioabsorbable hydrogel in rat hearts at 3 different time points - immediately after MI (IM), 3 d post-MI (3D), and 2 w post-MI (2W), corresponding to the beginnings of the necrotic, fibrotic and chronic remodeling phases. The employed left anterior descending coronary artery ligation model showed expected infarction responses including functional loss, inflammation and fibrosis with distinct time dependent patterns. Changes in LV geometry and contractile function were followed by longitudinal echocardiography for 10 w post-MI. While all injection times positively affected LV function and wall thickness, the 3D group gave better functional outcomes than the other injection times and also exhibited more local vascularization and less inflammatory markers than the earlier injection time. The results indicate an important role for injection timing in the increasingly explored concept of post-MI biomaterial injection therapy and suggest that for hydrogels with mechanical support as primary function, injection at the beginning of the fibrotic phase may provide improved outcomes. PMID:26774561

  2. Timing effect of intramyocardial hydrogel injection for positively impacting left ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Yoshizumi, Tomo; Zhu, Yang; Jiang, Hongbin; D'Amore, Antonio; Sakaguchi, Hirokazu; Tchao, Jason; Tobita, Kimimasa; Wagner, William R

    2016-03-01

    Intramyocardial injection of various injectable hydrogel materials has shown benefit in positively impacting the course of left ventricular (LV) remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI). However, since LV remodeling is a complex, time dependent process, the most efficacious time of hydrogel injection is not clear. In this study, we injected a relatively stiff, thermoresponsive and bioabsorbable hydrogel in rat hearts at 3 different time points - immediately after MI (IM), 3 d post-MI (3D), and 2 w post-MI (2W), corresponding to the beginnings of the necrotic, fibrotic and chronic remodeling phases. The employed left anterior descending coronary artery ligation model showed expected infarction responses including functional loss, inflammation and fibrosis with distinct time dependent patterns. Changes in LV geometry and contractile function were followed by longitudinal echocardiography for 10 w post-MI. While all injection times positively affected LV function and wall thickness, the 3D group gave better functional outcomes than the other injection times and also exhibited more local vascularization and less inflammatory markers than the earlier injection time. The results indicate an important role for injection timing in the increasingly explored concept of post-MI biomaterial injection therapy and suggest that for hydrogels with mechanical support as primary function, injection at the beginning of the fibrotic phase may provide improved outcomes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Impact of long-term burden of excessive adiposity and elevated blood pressure from childhood on adulthood left ventricular remodeling patterns: the Bogalusa Heart Study.

    PubMed

    Lai, Chin-Chih; Sun, Dianjianyi; Cen, Ruiqi; Wang, Jian; Li, Shengxu; Fernandez-Alonso, Camilo; Chen, Wei; Srinivasan, Sathanur R; Berenson, Gerald S

    2014-10-14

    Cardiovascular risk factors are associated with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), but little is known regarding related impact of longitudinal measures of childhood adiposity and LV hemodynamic variables. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of cumulative long-term burden and trends of excessive adiposity and elevated blood pressure (BP) during childhood on adulthood LVH and LV geometric remodeling patterns. This longitudinal study consisted of 1,061 adults, age 24 to 46 years, who had been examined 4 or more times for body mass index (BMI) and BP starting in childhood, with a mean follow-up of 28.0 years. The area under the curve (AUC) was calculated as a measure of long-term burden (total AUC) and trends (incremental AUC) of BMI and BP from childhood to adulthood. Four LV geometric types were defined-normal, concentric remodeling (CR), eccentric hypertrophy (EH), and concentric hypertrophy (CH)-all on the basis of LV mass indexed for body height (m(2.7)) and relative wall thickness. Higher values of BMI and systolic and diastolic BP in childhood and adulthood, as well as total AUC and incremental AUC, were all significantly associated with higher LV mass index and LVH, adjusted for race, sex, and age. In addition, higher values of BMI and BP in childhood and adulthood, total AUC, and incremental AUC were significantly associated with EH and CH but not with CR. Importantly, all of these measures of BMI had a consistently and significantly greater influence on EH than did measures of BP. These findings indicate that the adverse influence of excessive adiposity and elevated BP levels on LVH begins in childhood. Copyright © 2014 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Left Ventricular Reverse Remodeling With Biventricular Versus Right Ventricular Pacing in Patients With Atrioventricular Block and Heart Failure in the BLOCK HF Trial.

    PubMed

    St John Sutton, Martin; Plappert, Ted; Adamson, Philip B; Li, Pei; Christman, Shelly A; Chung, Eugene S; Curtis, Anne B

    2015-05-01

    Biventricular pacing in heart failure (HF) improves survival, relieves symptoms, and attenuates left ventricular (LV) remodeling. However, little is known about biventricular pacing in HF patients with atrioventricular block because they are typically excluded from biventricular trials. The Biventricular versus Right Ventricular Pacing in Heart Failure Patients with Atrioventricular Block (BLOCK HF) trial randomized patients with atrioventricular block, New York Heart Association symptom classes I to III HF, and LV ejection fraction ≤50% to biventricular or right ventricular pacing. Doppler echocardiograms were obtained at randomization (after 30 to 60 days of right ventricular pacing postimplant) and every 6 months through 24 months. Data analysis comparing changes in 10 prespecified echo parameters over time was conducted using a Bayesian design. LV end systolic volume index was also evaluated as a predictor of mortality/morbidity. Of 691 randomized subjects, 624 had paired Doppler echocardiogram data for ≥1 analyses at 6, 12, 18, or 24 months. Biventricular pacing significantly reduced LV volume indices and intraventricular mechanical delay, and improved LV ejection fraction, consistent with LV reverse remodeling. These parameters showed little change with right ventricular pacing alone, indicating no systematic reverse remodeling with right ventricular pacing. LV end systolic volume index was predictive of mortality/morbidity; the estimated risk increased up to 1% for every 1 mL/m(2) increase in LV end systolic volume index. LV end systolic volume index is a significant predictor of mortality/morbidity in this population. Cardiac structure and function are improved with biventricular pacing for patients with atrioventricular block and LV systolic dysfunction. URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00267098. © 2015 American Heart Association, Inc.

  5. Effect of Renin-Angiotensin Blockers on Left Ventricular Remodeling in Severe Aortic Stenosis.

    PubMed

    Goh, Serene Si-Ning; Sia, Ching-Hui; Ngiam, Nicholas Jinghao; Tan, Benjamin Yong-Qiang; Lee, Poay Sian; Tay, Edgar Lik-Wui; Kong, William Kok-Fai; Yeo, Tiong Cheng; Poh, Kian-Keong

    2017-06-01

    Studies have shown that medical therapy with renin-angiotensin blockers (RABs) may benefit patients with aortic stenosis (AS). However, its use and efficacy remains controversial, including in patients with low flow (LF) with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). We examined the effects of RAB use on LV remodeling in patients with severe AS with preserved LVEF, analyzing the differential effects in patients with LF compared with normal flow (NF). This is a retrospective study of 428 consecutive subjects from 2005 to 2014 with echocardiographic diagnosis of severe AS and preserved LVEF. Clinical and echocardiographic parameters were systematically collected and analyzed. Two hundred forty-two (57%) patients had LF. Sixty-four LF patients (26%) were treated with RAB. Patients on RAB treatment had a higher incidence of hyperlipidemia (69% vs 44%) and diabetes mellitus (53% vs 34%). Severity of AS in terms of valve area, transvalvular mean pressure gradient, and aortic valve resistance were similar between both groups as was the degree of LV diastolic function. The RAB group demonstrated significantly lower LV mass index with a correspondingly lower incidence of concentric LV hypertrophy. Regardless of the duration of RAB therapy, patients had increased odds of having a preserved LV mass index compared with those without RAB therapy. In conclusion, RAB therapy may be associated with less LV pathological remodeling and have a role in delaying patients from developing cardiovascular complications of AS. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Cardiac CaM Kinase II genes δ and γ contribute to adverse remodeling but redundantly inhibit calcineurin-induced myocardial hypertrophy.

    PubMed

    Kreusser, Michael M; Lehmann, Lorenz H; Keranov, Stanislav; Hoting, Marc-Oscar; Oehl, Ulrike; Kohlhaas, Michael; Reil, Jan-Christian; Neumann, Kay; Schneider, Michael D; Hill, Joseph A; Dobrev, Dobromir; Maack, Christoph; Maier, Lars S; Gröne, Hermann-Josef; Katus, Hugo A; Olson, Eric N; Backs, Johannes

    2014-10-07

    Ca(2+)-dependent signaling through CaM Kinase II (CaMKII) and calcineurin was suggested to contribute to adverse cardiac remodeling. However, the relative importance of CaMKII versus calcineurin for adverse cardiac remodeling remained unclear. We generated double-knockout mice (DKO) lacking the 2 cardiac CaMKII genes δ and γ specifically in cardiomyocytes. We show that both CaMKII isoforms contribute redundantly to phosphorylation not only of phospholamban, ryanodine receptor 2, and histone deacetylase 4, but also calcineurin. Under baseline conditions, DKO mice are viable and display neither abnormal Ca(2+) handling nor functional and structural changes. On pathological pressure overload and β-adrenergic stimulation, DKO mice are protected against cardiac dysfunction and interstitial fibrosis. But surprisingly and paradoxically, DKO mice develop cardiac hypertrophy driven by excessive activation of endogenous calcineurin, which is associated with a lack of phosphorylation at the auto-inhibitory calcineurin A site Ser411. Likewise, calcineurin inhibition prevents cardiac hypertrophy in DKO. On exercise performance, DKO mice show an exaggeration of cardiac hypertrophy with increased expression of the calcineurin target gene RCAN1-4 but no signs of adverse cardiac remodeling. We established a mouse model in which CaMKII's activity is specifically and completely abolished. By the use of this model we show that CaMKII induces maladaptive cardiac remodeling while it inhibits calcineurin-dependent hypertrophy. These data suggest inhibition of CaMKII but not calcineurin as a promising approach to attenuate the progression of heart failure. © 2014 American Heart Association, Inc.

  7. Prognosis parameters and polarimetric properties of erythrocytes of the patients suffering from arterial hypertension and coronary heart disease at various patterns of left ventricular remodeling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ivaschuk, Oleg I.; Kolomoiets, M. Y.; Mikhaliev, K. O.; Chursina, T. Ya.

    2011-09-01

    The results of examination of 35 arterial hypertension and coronary heart disease patients are presented. The clinical, paraclinical and echocardiographic examinations were performed, and the parameters of prognosis (survival) according to Seattle Heart Failure Model, as well as the optical (polarimetric) properties of erythrocytic suspension were determined. The group of patients under examination was stratified by patterns of remodeling of left ventricle (LV). It was determined that increasing of anisotropy of erythrocytic suspension along LV remodeling patterns continuum correlates with aggravation of structural and functional state of LV and is associated with unfavorable prognosis.

  8. Postoperative Reverse Remodeling and Symptomatic Improvement in Normal-Flow Low-Gradient Aortic Stenosis After Aortic Valve Replacement.

    PubMed

    Carter-Storch, Rasmus; Møller, Jacob E; Christensen, Nicolaj L; Irmukhadenov, Akhmadjon; Rasmussen, Lars M; Pecini, Redi; Øvrehus, Kristian A; Søndergård, Eva V; Marcussen, Niels; Dahl, Jordi S

    2017-12-01

    Severe aortic stenosis (AS) most often presents with reduced aortic valve area (<1 cm 2 ), normal stroke volume index (≥35 mL/m 2 ), and either high mean gradient (≥40 mm Hg; normal-flow high-gradient AS) or low mean gradient (normal-flow low-gradient [NFLG] AS). The benefit of aortic valve replacement (AVR) among NFLG patients is controversial. We compared the impact of NFLG condition on preoperative left ventricular (LV) remodeling and myocardial fibrosis and postoperative remodeling and symptomatic benefit. Eighty-seven consecutive patients with reduced aortic valve area and normal stroke volume index undergoing AVR underwent echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging, a 6-minute walk test, and measurement of natriuretic peptides before and 1 year after AVR. Myocardial fibrosis was assessed from magnetic resonance imaging. Patients were stratified as NFLG or normal-flow high-gradient. In total, 33 patients (38%) had NFLG. Before AVR, they were characterized by similar symptom burden but less severe AS measured by aortic valve area index (0.50±0.09 versus 0.40±0.08 cm 2 /m 2 ; P <0.0001), lower LV mass index (74±18 versus 90±26 g/m 2 ; P =0.01), but the same degree of myocardial fibrosis. After AVR, NFLG had a smaller reduction in LV mass index (-3±10 versus -±18 g/m 2 ; P <0.0001) and a smaller reduction in natriuretic peptides. Both groups experienced similar symptomatic improvement. Normal-flow high-gradient condition independently predicted change in LV mass index. Patients with NFLG had less severe AS and LV remodeling than patients with normal-flow high-gradient. Furthermore, NFLG patients experienced less reverse remodeling but the same symptomatic benefit. URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT02316587. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

  9. Echocardiographic phase imaging to predict reverse remodeling after cardiac resynchronization therapy.

    PubMed

    Buss, Sebastian J; Humpert, Per M; Bekeredjian, Raffi; Hardt, Stefan E; Zugck, Christian; Schellberg, Dieter; Bauer, Alexander; Filusch, Arthur; Kuecherer, Helmut; Katus, Hugo A; Korosoglou, Grigorios

    2009-05-01

    The aim of our study was to investigate whether echocardiographic phase imaging (EPI) can predict response in patients who are considered for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). CRT improves quality of life, exercise capacity, and outcome in patients with bundle-branch block and advanced heart failure. Previous studies used QRS duration to select patients for CRT; the accuracy of this parameter to predict functional recovery, however, is controversial. We examined 42 patients with advanced heart failure (New York Heart Association [NYHA] functional class III to IV, QRS duration >130 ms, and ejection fraction <35%) before and 6 to 8 months after CRT. Left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony was estimated by calculating the SD of time to peak velocities (Ts-SD) by conventional tissue Doppler imaging (TDI), and the mean phase index (mean EPI-Index) was calculated by EPI in 12 mid-ventricular and basal segments. Patients who were alive and had significant relative decrease in end-systolic LV volume of Delta ESV >or=15% at 6 to 8 months of follow-up were defined as responders. All others were classified as nonresponders. The Ts-SD and the mean EPI-Index were related to Delta ESV (r = 0.43 for Ts-SD and r = 0.67 for mean EPI-Index, p < 0.01 for both), and both parameters yielded similar accuracy for the prediction of LV remodeling (area under the curve of 0.87 for TDI vs. 0.90 for EPI, difference between areas = 0.03, p = NS) and ejection fraction (EF) improvement (area under the curve of 0.87 for TDI vs. 0.93 for EPI, difference between areas = 0.06, p = NS). Furthermore, patients classified as responders by EPI (mean EPI-Index LV remodeling, and clinical outcomes in patients who undergo CRT. EPI is a method that objectively and accurately

  10. Loss or Inhibition of uPA or MMP-9 Attenuates LV Remodeling and Dysfunction after Acute Pressure Overload in Mice

    PubMed Central

    Heymans, Stephane; Lupu, Florea; Terclavers, Sven; Vanwetswinkel, Bjorn; Herbert, Jean-Marc; Baker, Andrew; Collen, Desire; Carmeliet, Peter; Moons, Lieve

    2005-01-01

    Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy is a natural response of the heart to increased pressure loading, but accompanying fibrosis and dilatation may result in irreversible life-threatening heart failure. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been invoked in various cardiac diseases, however, direct genetic evidence for a role of the plasminogen activator (PA) and MMP systems in pressure overload-induced LV hypertrophy and in heart failure is lacking. Therefore, the consequences of transverse aortic banding (TAB) were analyzed in mice lacking tissue-type PA (t-PA−/−), urokinase-type PA (u-PA−/−), or gelatinase-B (MMP-9−/−), and in wild-type (WT) mice after adenoviral gene transfer of the PA-inhibitor PAI-1 or the MMP-inhibitor TIMP-1. TAB elevated LV pressure comparably in all genotypes. In WT and t-PA−/− mice, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy was associated with myocardial fibrosis, LV dilatation and dysfunction, and pump failure after 7 weeks. In contrast, in u-PA−/− mice or in WT mice after PAI-1- and TIMP-1-gene transfer, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy was moderate and only minimally associated with cardiac fibrosis and LV dilatation, resulting in better preservation of pump function. Deficiency of MMP-9 had an intermediate effect. These findings suggest that the use of u-PA- or MMP-inhibitors might preserve cardiac pump function in LV pressure overloading. PMID:15631996

  11. Vagus nerve stimulation mitigates intrinsic cardiac neuronal and adverse myocyte remodeling postmyocardial infarction

    PubMed Central

    Beaumont, Eric; Southerland, Elizabeth M.; Hardwick, Jean C.; Wright, Gary L.; Ryan, Shannon; Li, Ying; KenKnight, Bruce H.; Armour, J. Andrew

    2015-01-01

    This paper aims to determine whether chronic vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) mitigates myocardial infarction (MI)-induced remodeling of the intrinsic cardiac nervous system (ICNS), along with the cardiac tissue it regulates. Guinea pigs underwent VNS implantation on the right cervical vagus. Two weeks later, MI was produced by ligating the ventral descending coronary artery. VNS stimulation started 7 days post-MI (20 Hz, 0.9 ± 0.2 mA, 14 s on, 48 s off; VNS-MI, n = 7) and was compared with time-matched MI animals with sham VNS (MI n = 7) vs. untreated controls (n = 8). Echocardiograms were performed before and at 90 days post-MI. At termination, IC neuronal intracellular voltage recordings were obtained from whole-mount neuronal plexuses. MI increased left ventricular end systolic volume (LVESV) 30% (P = 0.027) and reduced LV ejection fraction (LVEF) 6.5% (P < 0.001) at 90 days post-MI compared with baseline. In the VNS-MI group, LVESV and LVEF did not differ from baseline. IC neurons showed depolarization of resting membrane potentials and increased input resistance in MI compared with VNS-MI and sham controls (P < 0.05). Neuronal excitability and sensitivity to norepinephrine increased in MI and VNS-MI groups compared with controls (P < 0.05). Synaptic efficacy, as determined by evoked responses to stimulating input axons, was reduced in VNS-MI compared with MI or controls (P < 0.05). VNS induced changes in myocytes, consistent with enhanced glycogenolysis, and blunted the MI-induced increase in the proapoptotic Bcl-2-associated X protein (P < 0.05). VNS mitigates MI-induced remodeling of the ICNS, correspondingly preserving ventricular function via both neural and cardiomyocyte-dependent actions. PMID:26276818

  12. Vagus nerve stimulation mitigates intrinsic cardiac neuronal and adverse myocyte remodeling postmyocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Beaumont, Eric; Southerland, Elizabeth M; Hardwick, Jean C; Wright, Gary L; Ryan, Shannon; Li, Ying; KenKnight, Bruce H; Armour, J Andrew; Ardell, Jeffrey L

    2015-10-01

    This paper aims to determine whether chronic vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) mitigates myocardial infarction (MI)-induced remodeling of the intrinsic cardiac nervous system (ICNS), along with the cardiac tissue it regulates. Guinea pigs underwent VNS implantation on the right cervical vagus. Two weeks later, MI was produced by ligating the ventral descending coronary artery. VNS stimulation started 7 days post-MI (20 Hz, 0.9 ± 0.2 mA, 14 s on, 48 s off; VNS-MI, n = 7) and was compared with time-matched MI animals with sham VNS (MI n = 7) vs. untreated controls (n = 8). Echocardiograms were performed before and at 90 days post-MI. At termination, IC neuronal intracellular voltage recordings were obtained from whole-mount neuronal plexuses. MI increased left ventricular end systolic volume (LVESV) 30% (P = 0.027) and reduced LV ejection fraction (LVEF) 6.5% (P < 0.001) at 90 days post-MI compared with baseline. In the VNS-MI group, LVESV and LVEF did not differ from baseline. IC neurons showed depolarization of resting membrane potentials and increased input resistance in MI compared with VNS-MI and sham controls (P < 0.05). Neuronal excitability and sensitivity to norepinephrine increased in MI and VNS-MI groups compared with controls (P < 0.05). Synaptic efficacy, as determined by evoked responses to stimulating input axons, was reduced in VNS-MI compared with MI or controls (P < 0.05). VNS induced changes in myocytes, consistent with enhanced glycogenolysis, and blunted the MI-induced increase in the proapoptotic Bcl-2-associated X protein (P < 0.05). VNS mitigates MI-induced remodeling of the ICNS, correspondingly preserving ventricular function via both neural and cardiomyocyte-dependent actions. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

  13. Human relaxin gene expression delivered by bioreducible dendrimer polymer for post-infarct cardiac remodeling in rats

    PubMed Central

    Lee, Young Sook; Choi, Joung-Woo; Oh, Jung-Eun; Yun, Chae-Ok; Kim, Sung Wan

    2017-01-01

    In consensus, myocardial infarction (MI) is defined as irreversible cell death secondary to prolonged ischemia in heart. The aim of our study was to evaluate the therapeutic potential of anti-fibrotic human Relaxin-expressing plasmid DNA with hypoxia response element (HRE) 12 copies (HR1) delivered by a dendrimer type PAM-ABP polymer G0 (HR1/G0) after MI on functional, hemodynamic, geometric, and cardiac extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in rats. HR1/G0 demonstrated significantly improved LV systolic function, hemodynamic parameters, and geometry on 1 wk and 4 wks after MI in rats, compared with I/R group. The resolution of regional wall motional abnormalities and the increased blood flow of infarct-related coronary artery supported functional improvements of HR1/G0. Furthermore, HR1/G0 polyplex showed favorable post-infarct cardiac ECM remodeling reflected on the favorable cardiac ECM compositions. Overall, this is the first study, which presented an advanced platform for the gene therapy that reverses adverse cardiac remodeling after MI with a HR1 gene delivered by a bioreducible dendrimer polymer in the cardiac ECM. PMID:27174688

  14. Left and right ventricle late remodeling following myocardial infarction in rats.

    PubMed

    Stefanon, Ivanita; Valero-Muñoz, María; Fernandes, Aurélia Araújo; Ribeiro, Rogério Faustino; Rodríguez, Cristina; Miana, Maria; Martínez-González, José; Spalenza, Jessica S; Lahera, Vicente; Vassallo, Paula F; Cachofeiro, Victoria

    2013-01-01

    The mechanisms involved in cardiac remodeling in left (LV) and right ventricles (RV) after myocardial infarction (MI) are still unclear. We assayed factors involved in collagen turnover in both ventricles following MI in rats either presenting signs of heart failure (pulmonary congestion and increased LVEDP) or not (INF-HF or INF, respectively). MI was induced in male rats by ligation of the left coronary artery. Four weeks after MI gene expression of collagen I, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and lysyl oxidase (LOX), metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP2) as well as cardiac hemodynamic in both ventricles were evaluated. Ventricular dilatation, hypertrophy and an increase in interstitial fibrosis and myocyte size were observed in the RV and LV from INF-HF animals, whereas only LV dilatation and fibrosis in RV was present in INF. The LV fibrosis in INF-HF was associated with higher mRNA of collagen I, CTGF, TGF-β and LOX expressions than in INF and SHAM animals, while MMP2/TIMP2 mRNA ratio did not change. RV fibrosis in INF and INF-HF groups was associated with an increase in LOX mRNA and a reduction in MMP2/TIMP2 ratio. CTGF mRNA was increased only in the INF-HF group. INF and INF-HF animals presented different patterns of remodeling in both ventricles. In the INF-HF group, fibrosis seems to be consequence of collagen production in LV, and by reductions in collagen degradation in RV of both INF and INF-HF animals.

  15. SERIAL ULTRASOUND EVALUATION OF INTRAMYOCARDIAL STRAIN AFTER REPERFUSED MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION REVEALS THAT REMOTE ZONE DYSSYNCHRONY DEVELOPS IN CONCERT WITH LEFT VENTRICULAR REMODELING

    PubMed Central

    Li, Yinbo; Garson, Christopher D.; Xu, Yaqin; Helm, Patrick A.; Hossack, John A.; French, Brent A.

    2011-01-01

    This study noninvasively evaluated the development of left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony following reperfused myocardial infarction (MI) in mice using an ultrasonic speckle-tracking method. Eight C57BL/6J mice were assessed by high-resolution echocardiography at baseline and at eight time-points following MI. Images were acquired at 1mm elevational intervals encompassing the entire LV to determine chamber volumes and radial strain. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of regional radial strain was used to segment the three-dimensional (3-D) LV into infarct, adjacent and remote zones. This in vivo segmentation was correlated to histologic infarct size (R = 0.89, p < 0.01) in a short-axis, slice-by-slice comparison. The onset of dyssynchrony during LV remodeling was assessed by standard deviation of time to peak radial strain in the infarct, adjacent and remote zones. It was discovered that the form of LV dyssynchrony that develops in the remote zone late after MI does so in concert with the progression of LV remodeling (R = 0.70, p < 0.05). PMID:21640480

  16. Race-related differences in left ventricular structural and functional remodeling in response to increased afterload: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study

    PubMed Central

    Fernandes-Silva, Miguel M; Shah, Amil M; Hegde, Sheila; Goncalves, Alexandra; Claggett, Brian; Cheng, Susan; Nadruz, Wilson; Kitzman, Dalane W.; Konety, Suma H.; Matsushita, Kunihiro; Mosley, Thomas; Lam, Carolyn S.P.; Borlaug, Barry A.; Solomon, Scott D

    2016-01-01

    Background Chronic increasing in arterial afterload may be an important trigger for left ventricular (LV) remodeling and dysfunction that lead to heart failure (HF). Racial differences in the predisposition to HF are well described, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Objective We evaluated the racial differences in arterial elastance (Ea), which reflects the arterial afterload faced by the LV, and its associations with cardiac structure and function. We hypothesize that the LV in blacks displays heightened afterload sensitivity as compared to whites. Methods We studied 5727 community-based, elderly Atherosclerosis Risk in Community (ARIC) Study participants (22% black), who underwent echocardiography between 2011 and 2013. Results Blacks were younger (75 ± 5 vs 76 ± 5 years old), more frequently women (66 vs 57%), and had higher prevalence of obesity (46 vs 31%), hypertension (94 vs 80%), and diabetes mellitus (47 vs 34%) than whites. Adjusting for these baseline differences, Ea was higher among blacks (1.96 ± 0.01 vs 1.80 ± 0.01 mmHg/mL). In blacks, Ea was associated with greater LV remodeling (LV mass index, β = 3.21 ± 0.55 g/m2, p<0.001) and higher LV filling pressures (E/e′ ratio, β = 0.42 ± 0.11, p<0.001). These relationships were not observed in whites (LV mass, β = 0.16 ± 0.32 g/m2, p=0.61, p for interaction <0.001; E/e′ratio, β = −0.32 ± 0.06, p<0.001, p for interaction <0.001).. Conclusion These community-based data suggest that black Americans display heightened afterload sensitivity as a stimulus for LV structural and functional remodeling, which may contribute to their greater risk of HF, as compared to white Americans. PMID:28017356

  17. Possible mechanism by which renal sympathetic denervation improves left ventricular remodelling after myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Zheng, Xiao-Xin; Li, Xiao-Yan; Lyu, Yong-Nan; He, Yi-Yu; Wan, Wei-Guo; Zhu, Hong-Ling; Jiang, Xue-Jun

    2016-02-01

    What is the central question of this study? The enzyme system that is responsible for extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover is the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which can be blocked by the tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs). Whether renal sympathetic denervation (RSD) is able to ameliorate post-myocardial infarction left ventricular remodelling through attenuation of ECM via regulation of MMP activity and/or the MMP-TIMP complex remains unknown. What is the main finding and its importance? Renal sympathetic denervation has therapeutic effects on post-myocardial infarction left ventricular remodelling, probably by attenuating the ECM through regulation of the MMP9-TIMP1 complex in the transforming growth factor-β1 (a profibrotic cytokine that accelerates ECM remodelling after ischaemia) signalling pathway. Whether renal sympathetic denervation (RSD) is able to ameliorate post-myocardial infarction (post-MI) left ventricular (LV) remodelling by attenuation of the extracellular matrix via regulation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity and/or the MMP-tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP) complex remains unknown. Sixty-five Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the following four groups: normal (N, n = 15), RSD (RSD, n = 15), myocardial infarction (MI, n = 15) and RSD 3 days after MI (MI3d+RSD, n = 20). The bilateral renal nerves were surgically denervated 3 days after MI had been induced by coronary artery ligation. Left ventricular function was assessed using echocardiography and a Millar catheter at 6 weeks post-MI. Plasma noradrenaline, angiotensin II and aldosterone, collagen volume fraction, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), MMP2, MMP9 and TIMP1 in heart tissue were measured 6 weeks after MI. In rats with MI3d+RSD compared with MI rats, RSD improved systolic and diastolic function, resulting in an improvement in ejection fraction (P < 0.05), fractional shortening (P < 0.05) and LV internal dimension in systole (P < 0.05) and

  18. Left and Right Ventricle Late Remodeling Following Myocardial Infarction in Rats

    PubMed Central

    Stefanon, Ivanita; Valero-Muñoz, María; Fernandes, Aurélia Araújo; Ribeiro, Rogério Faustino; Rodríguez, Cristina; Miana, Maria; Martínez-González, José; Spalenza, Jessica S.; Lahera, Vicente; Vassallo, Paula F.; Cachofeiro, Victoria

    2013-01-01

    Background The mechanisms involved in cardiac remodeling in left (LV) and right ventricles (RV) after myocardial infarction (MI) are still unclear. We assayed factors involved in collagen turnover in both ventricles following MI in rats either presenting signs of heart failure (pulmonary congestion and increased LVEDP) or not (INF-HF or INF, respectively). Methods MI was induced in male rats by ligation of the left coronary artery. Four weeks after MI gene expression of collagen I, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and lysyl oxidase (LOX), metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP2) as well as cardiac hemodynamic in both ventricles were evaluated. Results Ventricular dilatation, hypertrophy and an increase in interstitial fibrosis and myocyte size were observed in the RV and LV from INF-HF animals, whereas only LV dilatation and fibrosis in RV was present in INF. The LV fibrosis in INF-HF was associated with higher mRNA of collagen I, CTGF, TGF-β and LOX expressions than in INF and SHAM animals, while MMP2/TIMP2 mRNA ratio did not change. RV fibrosis in INF and INF-HF groups was associated with an increase in LOX mRNA and a reduction in MMP2/TIMP2 ratio. CTGF mRNA was increased only in the INF-HF group. Conclusions INF and INF-HF animals presented different patterns of remodeling in both ventricles. In the INF-HF group, fibrosis seems to be consequence of collagen production in LV, and by reductions in collagen degradation in RV of both INF and INF-HF animals. PMID:23741440

  19. Effects of local irradiation combined with sunitinib on early remodeling, mitochondria, and oxidative stress in the rat heart

    PubMed Central

    Sridharan, Vijayalakshmi; Thomas, Chanice J.; Cao, Maohua; Melnyk, Stepan B.; Pavliv, Oleksandra; Joseph, Jacob; Singh, Sharda P.; Sharma, Sunil; Moros, Eduardo G.; Boerma, Marjan

    2016-01-01

    Background and Purpose Thoracic (chemo)radiation therapy is increasingly administered with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). While TKI have adverse effects on the heart, it is unknown whether combination with other cancer therapies causes enhanced toxicity. We used an animal model to investigate whether radiation and sunitinib interact in their effects on the heart. Material and Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats received local heart irradiation (9 Gy per day, 5 days). Oral sunitinib (8 or 15 mg/kg bodyweight per day) started on day 1 of irradiation and continued for 2 weeks. Cardiac function was examined with echocardiography. Cardiac remodeling, cell death, left ventricular (LV) oxidative stress markers, mitochondrial morphology and membrane permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening were assessed. Results Cardiac diameter, stroke volume, and LV volume, mass and anterior wall thickness increased in time, but only in the vehicle group. Sunitinib reduced LV inner diameter and volume in systole, which were counteracted by radiation. Sunitinib and radiation showed enhanced effects on mitochondrial morphology and mPTP opening, but not on cardiac troponin I, mast cell numbers or markers of oxidative stress. Conclusions This study found no early enhanced effects of radiation and sunitinib on cardiac function or structure. Long-term effects remain to be determined. PMID:27072940

  20. Interlead distance and left ventricular lead electrical delay predict reverse remodeling during cardiac resynchronization therapy.

    PubMed

    Merchant, Faisal M; Heist, E Kevin; Nandigam, K Veena; Mulligan, Lawrence J; Blendea, Dan; Riedl, Lindsay; McCarty, David; Orencole, Mary; Picard, Michael H; Ruskin, Jeremy N; Singh, Jagmeet P

    2010-05-01

    Both anatomic interlead separation and left ventricle lead electrical delay (LVLED) have been associated with outcomes following cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). However, the relationship between interlead distance and electrical delay in predicting CRT outcomes has not been defined. We studied 61 consecutive patients undergoing CRT for standard clinical indications. All patients underwent intraprocedural measurement of LVLED. Interlead distances in the horizontal (HD), vertical (VD), and direct (DD) dimensions were measured from postprocedure chest radiographs (CXR). Remodeling indices [percent change in left ventricle (LV) ejection fraction, end-diastolic, end-systolic dimensions] were assessed by transthoracic echocardiogram. There was a positive correlation between corrected LVLED and HD on lateral CXR (r = 0.361, P = 0.004) and a negative correlation between LVLED and VD on posteroanterior (PA) CXR (r =-0.281, P = 0.028). To account for this inverse relationship, we developed a composite anatomic distance (defined as: lateral HD-PA VD), which correlated most closely with LVLED (r = 0.404, P = 0.001). Follow-up was available for 48 patients. At a mean of 4.1 +/- 3.2 months, patients with optimal values for both corrected LVLED (>or=75%) and composite anatomic distance (>or=15 cm) demonstrated greater reverse LV remodeling than patients with either one or neither of these optimized values. We identified a significant correlation between LV-right ventricular interlead distance and LVLED; additionally, both parameters act synergistically in predicting LV anatomic reverse remodeling. Efforts to optimize both interlead distance and electrical delay may improve CRT outcomes.

  1. Impact of peri-stent remodeling on restenosis: a volumetric intravascular ultrasound study.

    PubMed

    Nakamura, M; Yock, P G; Bonneau, H N; Kitamura, K; Aizawa, T; Tamai, H; Fitzgerald, P J; Honda, Y

    2001-05-01

    Vessel remodeling is an important mechanism of late lumen loss after nonstent coronary interventions. However, its impact on in-stent restenosis has not been systematically investigated. Serial volumetric intravascular ultrasound analyses (poststent and follow-up) were performed in 55 lesions treated with a balloon-expandable stent (ACS MultiLink) using standard stent deployment techniques. The vessel volume (VV), lumen volume (LV), and volume bordered by the stent (SV) were measured using Simpson's method. The volume of plaque and neointima outside the stent (peri-stent volume, PSV) and volume of neointima within the stent (intrastent volume) were also measured. The change of each parameter during the follow-up period (follow-up minus poststent) was calculated and then divided by SV to normalize these values (designated as percent change [%]). As expected, %PSV directly correlated with %VV (P<0.0001, r=0.935), with no significant SV. A highly significant inverse correlation was seen between %PSV and the percent change of intrastent volume (P<0.0001, r=0.517). Consequently, %LV significantly correlated with peri-stent remodeling, as measured by %VV (P<0.0001, r=0.602). Positive remodeling of the vessel exterior to a coronary stent occurs to a variable degree after stent implantation. There is a distinct trade-off between positive remodeling and in-stent hyperplasia: in segments in which the degree of peri-stent remodeling is less, intrastent neointimal proliferation is greater and accompanied by more significant late lumen loss.

  2. Prediction of Reverse Remodeling at Cardiac MR Imaging Soon after First ST-Segment-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Results of a Large Prospective Registry.

    PubMed

    Bodi, Vicente; Monmeneu, Jose V; Ortiz-Perez, Jose T; Lopez-Lereu, Maria P; Bonanad, Clara; Husser, Oliver; Minana, Gemma; Gomez, Cristina; Nunez, Julio; Forteza, Maria J; Hervas, Arantxa; de Dios, Elena; Moratal, David; Bosch, Xavier; Chorro, Francisco J

    2016-01-01

    To assess predictors of reverse remodeling by using cardiac magnetic resonance (MR) imaging soon after ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Written informed consent was obtained from all patients, and the study protocol was approved by the institutional committee on human research, ensuring that it conformed to the ethical guidelines of the 1975 Declaration of Helsinki. Five hundred seven patients (mean age, 58 years; age range, 24-89 years) with a first STEMI were prospectively studied. Infarct size and microvascular obstruction (MVO) were quantified at late gadolinium-enhanced imaging. Reverse remodeling was defined as a decrease in left ventricular (LV) end-systolic volume index (LVESVI) of more than 10% from 1 week to 6 months after STEMI. For statistical analysis, a simple (from a clinical perspective) multiple regression model preanalyzing infarct size and MVO were applied via univariate receiver operating characteristic techniques. Patients with reverse remodeling (n = 211, 42%) had a lesser extent (percentage of LV mass) of 1-week infarct size (mean ± standard deviation: 18% ± 13 vs 23% ± 14) and MVO (median, 0% vs 0%; interquartile range, 0%-1% vs 0%-4%) than those without reverse remodeling (n = 296, 58%) (P < .001 in pairwise comparisons). The independent predictors of reverse remodeling were infarct size (odds ratio, 0.98; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.97, 0.99; P = .04) and MVO (odds ratio, 0.92; 95% CI: 0.86, 0.99; P = .03). Once infarct size and MVO were dichotomized by using univariate receiver operating characteristic techniques, the only independent predictor of reverse remodeling was the presence of simultaneous nonextensive infarct-size MVO (infarct size < 30% of LV mass and MVO < 2.5% of LV mass) (odds ratio, 3.2; 95% CI: 1.8, 5.7; P < .001). Assessment of infarct size and MVO with cardiac MR imaging soon after STEMI enables one to make a decision in the prediction of reverse remodeling. © RSNA, 2015

  3. Effect of endurance exercise training on left ventricular size and remodeling in older adults with hypertension.

    PubMed

    Turner, M J; Spina, R J; Kohrt, W M; Ehsani, A A

    2000-04-01

    It is not known whether exercise training can induce a reduction of blood pressure (BP) and a regression of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in older hypertensive subjects. This study was designed to determine whether endurance exercise training, by lowering BP, can induce regression of LVH and left ventricular (LV) concentric remodeling in older hypertensive adults. We studied 11 older adults with mild to moderate hypertension (BP 152.0 +/- 2.5/91.3 +/- 1.5 mm Hg, mean +/- SE), 65.5 +/- 1.2 years old, who exercised for 6.8 +/- 3.8 months. Seven sedentary hypertensive (BP 153 +/- 3/89 +/- 2 mm Hg) subjects, 68.5 +/- 1 years old, served as controls. LV size and geometry and function were assessed with the use of two-dimensional echocardiography. Exercise training increased aerobic power by 16% (p < .001), and it decreased systolic (p < .05) and diastolic (p < .05) BP, LV wall thickness (from 12.8 +/- 0.4 mm to 11.3 +/- 0.3 mm; p < .05), and the wall thickness-to-radius (h/r) ratio (from 0.48 +/- 0.02 to 0.41 +/- 0.01; p < .05). There were no significant changes in the controls. The changes in LV mass index (deltaLVMI) were different between the two groups. LV mass index decreased in the exercise group (deltaLVMI - 14.3 +/- 3.3 g) but not in the controls (deltaLVMI 1.4 +/- 4.1 g; p = .009). A multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that among clinical and physiological variables including changes in resting systolic BP, aerobic power, body mass index, and systolic BP during submaximal and maximal exercise, only the reduction in resting systolic BP correlated significantly with a regression of concentric remodeling (delta h/r ratio r = .80; p = .003). The other variables did not add to the ability of the model to predict changes in the h/r ratio. The data suggest that exercise training can reduce BP and induce partial regression of LVH and LV concentric remodeling in older adults with mild or moderate hypertension.

  4. Intrafamilial aggregation and heritability of left ventricular geometric remodeling is independent of cardiac mass in families of African ancestry.

    PubMed

    Peterson, Vernice R; Norton, Gavin R; Redelinghuys, Michelle; Libhaber, Carlos D; Maseko, Muzi J; Majane, Olebogeng H I; Brooksbank, Richard; Woodiwiss, Angela J

    2015-05-01

    Whether left ventricular (LV) geometric remodeling, as indexed by relative wall thickness (RWT), aggregates in families and is inherited independent of LV mass (LVM) and additional confounders is uncertain. We determined whether RWT as assessed from 2D targeted M-mode echocardiography shows intrafamilial aggregation and heritability independent of LVM in 181 nuclear families (73 spouse pairs, 403 parent-child pairs, and 177 sibling-sibling pairs) with 16 families including 3 generations from an urban developing community of black Africans. Intrafamilial aggregation and heritability estimates (S.A.G.E. software) were assessed independent of confounders, including central aortic systolic blood pressure (SBPc) (radial applanation tonometry and SphygmoCor software). Independent of confounders including SBPc, LV RWT was correlated in parent-child (r = 0.32, P < 0.0001) and sibling-sibling (r = 0.29, P < 0.0001), but not in spouse (r = 0.11, P = 0.33) pairs. The relationships between parent-child (r = 0.28, P < 0.0001) and sibling-sibling (r = 0.24, P < 0.001) pairs persisted with further adjustments for LVM or LVM indexed to height(2.7) (LVMI). Similarly, independent of confounders, LV RWT showed significant heritability (h(2) ± SEM = 0.56 ± 0.09, P < 0.0001) and this persisted with further adjustments for LVM (h(2) ± SEM = 0.48 ± 0.09, P < 0.0001) or LVMI (h(2) ± SEM = 0.49 ± 0.09, P < 0.0001). In a group of African ancestry, independent of LVM, LV geometric remodeling shows significant intrafamilial aggregation and heritability. Genetic factors may in-part determine the LV geometric remodeling process independent of the extent of cardiac hypertrophy. © American Journal of Hypertension, Ltd 2014. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  5. The potential of multi-slice computed tomography based volumetry for demonstrating reverse remodeling induced by cardiac resynchronization therapy.

    PubMed

    Langer, Christoph; Schroeder, Janina; Peterschroeder, Andreas; Vaske, Bernhard; Faber, Lothar; Welge, Dirk; Niethammer, Matthias; Lamp, Barbara; Butz, Thomas; Bitter, Thomas; Oldenburg, Olaf; Horstkotte, Dieter

    2010-07-01

    Multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) was proved to provide precise cardiac volumetric assessment. Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an effective treatment for selected patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFREF). In HFREF patients we investigated the potential of MSCT based wall motion analysis in order to demonstrate CRT-induced reversed remodeling. Besides six patients with normal cardiac pump function serving as control group seven HFREF patients underwent contrast enhanced MSCT before and after CRT. Short cardiac axis views of the left ventricle (LV) in end-diastole (ED) and end-systole (ES) served for planimetry. Pre- and post-CRT MSCT based volumetry was compared with 2D echo. To demonstrate CRT-induced reverse remodeling, MSCT based multi-segment color-coded polar maps were introduced. With regard to the HFREF patients pre-CRT MSCT based volumetry correlated with 2D echo data for LV-EDV (MSCT 278.3+/-75.0mL vs. echo 274.4+/-85.6mL) r=0.380, p=0.401, LV-ESV (MSCT 226.7+/-75.4mL vs. echo 220.1+/-74.0mL) r=0.323, p=0.479 and LV-EF (MSCT 20.2+/-8.8% vs. echo 20.0+/-11.9%) r=0.617, p=0.143. Post-CRT MSCT correlated well with 2D echo: LV-EDV (MSCT 218.9+/-106.4mL vs. echo 188.7+/-93.1mL) r=0.87, p=0.011, LV-ESV (MSCT 145+/-71.5mL vs. echo 125.6+/-78mL) r=0.84, p=0.018 and LV-EF (MSCT 29.6+/-11.3mL vs. echo 38.6+/-14.6mL) r=0.89, p=0.007. There was a significant increase of the mid-ventricular septum in terms of absolute LV wall thickening of the responders (pre 0.9+/-2.1mm vs. post 3.3+/-2.2mm; p<0.0005). MSCT based volumetry involving multi-segment color-coded polar maps offers wall motion analysis to demonstrate CRT-induced reverse remodeling which needs to be further validated. 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist pretreatment to MINIMISE reperfusion injury after ST-elevation myocardial infarction (the MINIMISE STEMI Trial): rationale and study design.

    PubMed

    Bulluck, Heerajnarain; Fröhlich, Georg M; Mohdnazri, Shah; Gamma, Reto A; Davies, John R; Clesham, Gerald J; Sayer, Jeremy W; Aggarwal, Rajesh K; Tang, Kare H; Kelly, Paul A; Jagathesan, Rohan; Kabir, Alamgir; Robinson, Nicholas M; Sirker, Alex; Mathur, Anthony; Blackman, Daniel J; Ariti, Cono; Krishnamurthy, Arvindra; White, Steven K; Meier, Pascal; Moon, James C; Greenwood, John P; Hausenloy, Derek J

    2015-05-01

    Novel therapies capable of reducing myocardial infarct (MI) size when administered prior to reperfusion are required to prevent the onset of heart failure in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). Experimental animal studies have demonstrated that mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) therapy administered prior to reperfusion can reduce MI size, and MRA therapy prevents adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling in post-MI patients with LV impairment. With these 2 benefits in mind, we hypothesize that initiating MRA therapy prior to PPCI, followed by 3 months of oral MRA therapy, will reduce MI size and prevent adverse LV remodeling in STEMI patients. The MINIMISE-STEMI trial is a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that will recruit 150 STEMI patients from four centers in the United Kingdom. Patients will be randomized to receive either an intravenous bolus of MRA therapy (potassium canrenoate 200 mg) or matching placebo prior to PPCI, followed by oral spironolactone 50 mg once daily or matching placebo for 3 months. A cardiac magnetic resonance imaging scan will be performed within 1 week of PPCI and repeated at 3 months to assess MI size and LV remodeling. Enzymatic MI size will be estimated by the 48-hour area-under-the-curve serum cardiac enzymes. The primary endpoint of the study will be MI size on the 3-month cardiac magnetic resonance imaging scan. The MINIMISE STEMI trial will investigate whether early MRA therapy, initiated prior to reperfusion, can reduce MI size and prevent adverse post-MI LV remodeling. © 2015 The Authors. Clinical Cardiology published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  7. Frequent premature atrial contractions impair left atrial contractile function and promote adverse left atrial remodeling.

    PubMed

    John, Anub G; Hirsch, Glenn A; Stoddard, Marcus F

    2018-06-10

    This study assessed if frequent premature atrial contractions (PACs) were associated with decreased left atrial (LA) strain and adverse remodeling. Left atrial dysfunction and enlargement increases risk of stroke. If frequent PACs cause LA dysfunction and remodeling, PAC suppressive therapy may be beneficial. Inclusion criteria were age ≥18 years and sinus rhythm. Exclusion criteria were atrial fibrillation or any etiology for LA enlargement. Hundred and thirty-two patients with frequent PACs (≥100/24 hours) by Holter were matched to controls. Speckle tracking strain of the left atrium was performed from the 4-chamber view. Strain measurements were LA peak contractile, reservoir and conduit strain and strain rates. In the frequent PAC vs control group, PACs were more frequent (1959 ± 3796 vs 28 ± 25/24 hours, P < .0001). LA peak contractile strain was reduced in the group with frequent PACs vs controls (-7.85 ± 4.12% vs -9.33 ± 4.45%, P = .006). LA peak late negative contractile strain rate was less negative in the frequent PAC vs control group (-0.63 ± 0.27 s -1 vs -0.69 ± 0.32 s -1 , P = .051). LA reservoir and conduit strain and strain rates did not differ. LA volume index (LAVI) was larger in the frequent PAC vs control group (26.6 ± 7.8 vs 24.6 ± 8.8 mL/m 2 , P < .05). Frequent PACs were an independent predictor of reduced LA peak contractile strain and reduced LA peak late negative contractile strain rate. Patients with frequent PACs have reduced LA peak contractile strain and strain rates and larger LAVI compared to controls. Frequent PACs are an independent predictor of reduced LA peak contractile strain and strain rate. These findings support the hypothesis that frequent PACs impair LA contractile function and promote adverse LA remodeling. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  8. Partially silencing brain toll-like receptor 4 prevents in part left ventricular remodeling with sympathoinhibition in rats with myocardial infarction-induced heart failure.

    PubMed

    Ogawa, Kiyohiro; Hirooka, Yoshitaka; Kishi, Takuya; Ide, Tomomi; Sunagawa, Kenji

    2013-01-01

    Left ventricular (LV) remodeling and activation of sympathetic nervous system (SNS) are cardinal features of heart failure. We previously demonstrated that enhanced central sympathetic outflow is associated with brain toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) probably mediated by brain angiotensin II type 1 receptor in mice with myocardial infarction (MI)-induced heart failure. The purpose of the present study was to examine whether silencing brain TLR4 could prevent LV remodeling with sympathoinhibition in MI-induced heart failure. MI-induced heart failure model rats were created by ligation of left coronary artery. The expression level of TLR4 in brainstem was significantly higher in MI-induced heart failure treated with intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of hGAPDH-SiRNA than in sham. TLR4 in brainstem was significantly lower in MI-induced heart failure treated with ICV injection of TLR4-SiRNA than in that treated with ICV injection of hGAPDH-SiRNA. Lung weight, urinary norepinephrine excretion, and LV end-diastolic pressure were significantly lower and LV dimension was significantly smaller in MI-induced heart failure treated with TLR4-SiRNA than in that treated with hGAPDH-SiRNA for 2 weeks. Partially silencing brain TLR4 by ICV injection of TLR4-SiRNA for 2 weeks could in part prevent LV remodeling with sympathoinhibition in rats with MI-induced heart failure. Brain TLR4 has a potential to be a target of the treatment for MI-induced heart failure.

  9. Dissociation between cardiomyocyte function and remodeling with beta-adrenergic receptor blockade in isolated canine mitral regurgitation.

    PubMed

    Pat, Betty; Killingsworth, Cheryl; Denney, Thomas; Zheng, Junying; Powell, Pamela; Tillson, Michael; Dillon, A Ray; Dell'Italia, Louis J

    2008-12-01

    The low-pressure volume overload of isolated mitral regurgitation (MR) is associated with increased adrenergic drive, left ventricular (LV) dilatation, and loss of interstitial collagen. We tested the hypothesis that beta1-adrenergic receptor blockade (beta1-RB) would attenuate LV remodeling after 4 mo of MR in the dog. beta1-RB did not attenuate collagen loss or the increase in LV mass in MR dogs. Using MRI and three-dimensional (3-D) analysis, there was a 70% increase in the LV end-diastolic (LVED) volume-to-LV mass ratio, a 23% decrease in LVED midwall circumferential curvature, and a >50% increase in LVED 3-D radius/wall thickness in MR dogs that was not attenuated by beta1-RB. However, beta1-RB caused a significant increase in LVED length from the base to apex compared with untreated MR dogs. This was associated with an increase in isolated cardiomyocyte length (171+/-5 microm, P<0.05) compared with normal (156+/-3 microm) and MR (165+/-4 microm) dogs. Isolated cardiomyocyte fractional shortening was significantly depressed in MR dogs compared with normal dogs (3.73+/-0.31 vs. 5.02+/-0.26%, P<0.05) and normalized with beta1-RB (4.73+/-0.48%). In addition, stimulation with the beta-adrenergic receptor agonist isoproterenol (25 nM) increased cardiomyocyte fractional shortening by 215% (P<0.05) in beta1-RB dogs compared with normal (56%) and MR (50%) dogs. In summary, beta1-RB improved LV cardiomyocyte function and beta-adrenergic receptor responsiveness despite further cell elongation. The failure to attenuate LV remodeling associated with MR could be due to a failure to improve ultrastructural changes in extracellular matrix organization.

  10. Intravenously Delivered Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Systemic Anti-Inflammatory Effects Improve Left Ventricular Dysfunction in Acute Myocardial Infarction and Ischemic Cardiomyopathy.

    PubMed

    Luger, Dror; Lipinski, Michael J; Westman, Peter C; Glover, David K; Dimastromatteo, Julien; Frias, Juan C; Albelda, M Teresa; Sikora, Sergey; Kharazi, Alex; Vertelov, Grigory; Waksman, Ron; Epstein, Stephen E

    2017-05-12

    Virtually all mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) studies assume that therapeutic effects accrue from local myocardial effects of engrafted MSCs. Because few intravenously administered MSCs engraft in the myocardium, studies have mainly utilized direct myocardial delivery. We adopted a different paradigm. To test whether intravenously administered MSCs reduce left ventricular (LV) dysfunction both post-acute myocardial infarction and in ischemic cardiomyopathy and that these effects are caused, at least partly, by systemic anti-inflammatory activities. Mice underwent 45 minutes of left anterior descending artery occlusion. Human MSCs, grown chronically at 5% O 2 , were administered intravenously. LV function was assessed by serial echocardiography, 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining determined infarct size, and fluorescence-activated cell sorting assessed cell composition. Fluorescent and radiolabeled MSCs (1×10 6 ) were injected 24 hours post-myocardial infarction and homed to regions of myocardial injury; however, the myocardium contained only a small proportion of total MSCs. Mice received 2×10 6 MSCs or saline intravenously 24 hours post-myocardial infarction (n=16 per group). At day 21, we harvested blood and spleens for fluorescence-activated cell sorting and hearts for 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. Adverse LV remodeling and deteriorating LV ejection fraction occurred in control mice with large infarcts (≥25% LV). Intravenous MSCs eliminated the progressive deterioration in LV end-diastolic volume and LV end-systolic volume. MSCs significantly decreased natural killer cells in the heart and spleen and neutrophils in the heart. Specific natural killer cell depletion 24 hours pre-acute myocardial infarction significantly improved infarct size, LV ejection fraction, and adverse LV remodeling, changes associated with decreased neutrophils in the heart. In an ischemic cardiomyopathy model, mice 4 weeks post-myocardial infarction were

  11. Polymer injection therapy to reverse remodel the papillary muscles: efficacy in reducing mitral regurgitation in a chronic ischemic model.

    PubMed

    Solis, Jorge; Levine, Robert A; Johnson, Benjamin; Guerrero, J Luis; Handschumacher, Mark D; Sullivan, Suzanne; Lam, Kaitlyn; Berlin, Jason; Braithwaite, Gavin J C; Muratoglu, Orhun K; Vlahakes, Gus J; Hung, Judy

    2010-10-01

    Ischemic mitral regurgitation (MR) results from displacement of the papillary muscles caused by ischemic ventricular distortion. Progressive left ventricular (LV) remodeling has challenged therapy. Our hypothesis is that repositioning of the papillary muscles can be achieved by injection of polyvinyl-alcohol (PVA) hydrogel polymer into the myocardium in chronic MR despite advanced LV remodeling. Ten sheep underwent ligation of the circumflex branches to produce chronic ischemic MR over 8 weeks. PVA was injected into the myocardium underlying the infarcted papillary muscle. Two-dimensional and 3D echocardiograms and hemodynamic data were obtained before infarct (baseline), before PVA (chronic MR), and after PVA. PVA injection significantly decreased MR from moderate to severe to trace (MR vena contracta, 5.8±1.2 to1.8±1.3 mm; chronic MR to post-PVA stage; P=0.0003). This was associated with a decrease in infarcted papillary muscle-to-mitral annulus tethering distance (30.3±5.7 to 25.9±4.6 mm, P=0.02), tenting volume (1.8±0.7 to 1.4±0.5 mL, P=0.01), and leaflet closure area (8.8±1.3 cm(2)to 7.6±1.3 cm(2), P=0.004) from chronic MR to post-PVA stages. PVA was not associated with significant decreases in LV ejection fraction (41±3% versus 40±3%, P=NS), end-systolic elastance, τ (82±36 ms to 72±26, P=NS), or LV stiffness coefficient (0.05±0.04 to 0.03±0.01). PVA hydrogel injections improve coaptation and reduce remodeling in chronic MR without impairing LV systolic and diastolic function. This new approach offers a potential alternative for relieving tethering and ischemic MR by correcting papillary muscle position.

  12. Biventricular Heart Remodeling After Percutaneous or Surgical Pulmonary Valve Implantation: Evaluation by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance.

    PubMed

    Secchi, Francesco; Resta, Elda C; Cannaò, Paola M; Pluchinotta, Francesca; Piazza, Luciane; Butera, Gianfranco; Carminati, Mario; Sardanelli, Francesco

    2017-11-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) and surgical pulmonary valve replacement (SPVR) on biventricular and pulmonary valve function using cardiac magnetic resonance. Thirty-five patients aged 20±8 years (mean±SD) underwent PPVI, whereas 16 patients aged 30±11 years underwent SPVR. Cardiac magnetic resonance examinations were performed before and after the procedures with an average follow-up interval of 10 months. Cine steady-state free precession sequences for cardiac function and phase-contrast sequences for pulmonary flow were performed. The right ventricle (RV) and left ventricle (LV) functions were evaluated using a dedicated software. The RV end-diastolic volume index (mL/m) decreased significantly after PPVI and SPVR, from 74 to 64 (P=0.030) and from 137 to 83 (P=0.001), respectively. The RV ejection fraction increased significantly after SPVR, from 47% to 53% (P=0.038). The LV end-diastolic volume index increased significantly after PPVI, from 66 to 76 mL/m (P<0.001). The LV stroke volume index increased significantly after PPVI, from 34 to 43 mL/m (P=0.004). The analysis of bivariate correlations showed that in patients undergoing SPVR the RV changes after the procedure were positively correlated to LV changes in terms of end-systolic volume index (r=0587; P=0.017) and ejection fraction (r=0.681; P=0.004). A RV volumetric reduction and a positive effect on ventricular-ventricular interaction were observed after both PPVI and SPVR. After PPVI, a positive volumetric LV remodeling was found. No LV remodeling was found after SPVR. After both procedures, the replaced pulmonary valve functioned well.

  13. Insulin resistance-associated decreases in left ventricular diastolic function are strongly modified by the extent of concentric remodeling in a community sample.

    PubMed

    Peterson, Vernice; Norton, Gavin R; Raymond, Andrew; Libhaber, Carlos D; Millen, Aletta M E; Majane, Olebogeng H I; Maseko, Muzi J; Woodiwiss, Angela J

    2016-10-01

    Whether excess adiposity, associated metabolic abnormalities or alternative risk factors for left ventricular (LV) diastolic function are modified rather than mediated by geometric LV remodeling, is uncertain. Echocardiographic LV mass index (LVMI), relative wall thickness (RWT) and diastolic function (lateral and septal wall myocardial tissue lengthening at the level of the mitral annulus [e'] [n=430], ratio of early-to-late transmitral blood flow velocity (E/A), and E/e' [n=430]) were determined in 737 randomly recruited participants of a community-based study (43% obese). Independent of LVMI and confounders, indexes of adiposity and the homeostasis model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were independently associated with LV diastolic function (p<0.05). In addition, RWT was independently associated with LV diastolic function (p<0.002). Importantly, an independent interaction between HOMA-IR and RWT, but not between blood pressure or age and RWT, was related to LV diastolic function (p<0.05). This translated into an independent relationship between HOMA-IR and lateral e' (partial r=-0.17, p<0.02), septal e' (partial r=-0.14, p=0.05), E/A (partial r=-0.17, p<0.005) and E/e' (partial r=0.19, p<0.01) in those with RWT above, but a lack of relationship between HOMA-IR and LV diastolic function (p>0.59) in those with RWT below the median for the sample. Similarly, HOMA-IR was independently associated with LV diastolic dysfunction in those with RWT above (p<0.05) but not below (p>0.19) the median for the sample. The relationship between insulin resistance, but not alternative risk factors and LV diastolic function is markedly modified by the presence of a more concentrically remodeled LV. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Chitosan hydrogels significantly limit left ventricular infarction and remodeling and preserve myocardial contractility.

    PubMed

    Henning, Robert J; Khan, Abraham; Jimenez, Ernesto

    2016-04-01

    Left ventricular myocardial infarctions (MIs) consist of a central area of myocardial necrosis that is surrounded by areas of myocardial injury and ischemia. We hypothesized that chitosan hydrogels, when injected around the perimeter of MIs in rats, could decrease left ventricle (LV) wall stress by the Law of LaPlace, and therefore myocardial oxygen requirements, and prevent the ischemic and injured myocardium from becoming necrotic. In this manner, chitosan gels could limit LV infraction size and LV remodeling. Chitosan hydrogels are liquid at 25°C but gel at 37°C. Seventy Sprague-Dawley rats with ligation of the left coronary artery were treated with either Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) or chitosan hydrogel in DMEM, which was injected around the infarct perimeter. Echocardiograms were obtained before MI and at 2, 4, 8, 12, and 16 wk after MI. Hearts from randomly selected rats were harvested at baseline and at the time of echocardiography for determinations of LV infarct size, remodeling, and histopathology. Infarct sizes as a percentage of the total ventricular myocardium in the DMEM group averaged 17% versus 14% in the chitosan group at 4 wk (P < 0.05), 18% versus 14% at 8 wk (P < 0.01), 19% versus 14% at 12 wk (P < 0.001), and 20% versus 14% at 16 wk (P < 0.001). Injection of chitosan into the infarctions produced LV wall thicknesses in the MI border zones that averaged 0.66 cm at 4 wk, which were greater than the LV wall thicknesses in the border zones of rats treated with DMEM, which averaged 0.33 cm (P < 0.01). Arteriole densities in the MI border zones were 160/mm(2) in the chitosan group but only 92/mm(2) in the DMEM rats (P < 0.01). The left ventricular end-diastolic diameters (LVEDs) in the rats averaged 0.73 cm before MI. After MI, LVED increased in the DMEM rats to 0.84 cm at 2 wk, then 0.89 cm at 4 wk, 0.89 cm at 8 wk, 0.89 m at 12 wk, and 0.87 cm at 16 wk. In contrast, LVED in the chitosan rats were on average 19% smaller in comparison

  15. Blood Pressure and Left Ventricular Remodeling Among American Style Football Players

    PubMed Central

    Lin, Jeffrey; Wang, Francis; Weiner, Rory B.; DeLuca, James R.; Wasfy, Meagan M.; Berkstresser, Brant; Lewis, Gregory D.; Hutter, Adolph M.; Picard, Michael H.; Baggish, Aaron L.

    2016-01-01

    Objective To determine the relationships between American style football (ASF) participation, acquired left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, and LV systolic function as assessed using contemporary echocardiographic parameters. Background Participation in ASF has been associated with the development of hypertension and LV hypertrophy. To what degree these processes impact LV function is unknown. Methods This is a prospective, longitudinal, cohort study evaluating NCAA Division I collegiate football athletes stratified by field position (linemen, n=30 vs. non-linemen, n=57) before and after a single competitive season with transthoracic echocardiography. LV systolic function was measured using complementary parameters of global longitudinal strain (GLS, 2D speckle-tracking) and ejection fraction (EF, 2D biplane). Results ASF participation was associated with field position-specific increases in systolic blood pressure (linemen Δ SBP = 10±8 mmHg vs. non-linemen Δ SBP = 3±7 mmHg, p<0.001) and an overall increase in incident LV hypertrophy (pre = 8% vs. post = 25%, p<0.05). Linemen who developed LV hypertrophy had concentric geometry (9/11, 82%) with decreased GLS (Δ = −1.1%, p<0.001) while non-linemen demonstrated eccentric LV hypertrophy (8/10, 80%) with increased GLS (Δ = +1.4%, p<0.001). In contrast, LV ejection fraction in the total cohort and when stratified by field position was not significantly affected by ASF participation. Among the total cohort, lineman field position, postseason weight, systolic blood pressure, average LV wall thickness, and relative wall thickness were all independent predictors of postseason GLS. Conclusions ASF participation at a lineman field position may lead to a form of sport-related myocardial remodeling that is pathologic rather than adaptive. Future study will be required to determine if targeted efforts to control blood pressure, minimize weight gain, and to include an element of aerobic conditioning in this subset of

  16. Left ventricular remodelling in patients with moderate systolic dysfunction after myocardial infarction: favourable effects of exercise training and predictive role of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide.

    PubMed

    Giallauria, Francesco; Cirillo, Plinio; Lucci, Rosa; Pacileo, Mario; De Lorenzo, Anna; D'Agostino, Mariantonietta; Moschella, Sabino; Psaroudaki, Marianna; Del Forno, Domenico; Orio, Francesco; Vitale, Dino Franco; Chiariello, Massimo; Vigorito, Carlo

    2008-02-01

    To investigate the effects of exercise training (ET) on left ventricular (LV) volumes, cardiopulmonary functional capacity and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels in postinfarction patients with moderate LV dysfunction. Sixty-one postinfarction patients were randomized into two groups: group T [n=30, LV ejection fraction (EF) 41.6+/-11.3%, mean+/-SD] entered a 6-month ET programme, whereas group C (n=31, EF 42.0+/-7.6%, P=NS) did not. NT-proBNP assay, Doppler-echocardiography and cardiopulmonary exercise test were performed upon enrolment and at sixth months. At sixth months, trained patients showed an improvement in workload (+26%, P<0.001), Vo2peak (+31%, P<0.001), LV end-diastolic volume index (LVEDVI; -9%, P<0.001), a reduction in NT-proBNP (-71%, P<0.001) and a significant correlation between changes in NT-proBNP and in LVEDVI (r=0.858, P<0.001). Baseline NT-proBNP correlated with changes in LVEDVI in both trained (r=0.673, P<0.001) and untrained (r=0.623, P<0.001) patients. Group C showed unfavourable LVEDVI dilation (+8%, P<0.001; T vs. C group, P<0.001) and a smaller reduction in NT-proBNP (-40%, P<0.001; T vs. C group, P<0.001). Six month ET induced a favourable LV remodelling and a marked fall in NT-proBNP that could predict LV remodelling in postinfarction patients with moderate LV dysfunction.

  17. Independent influences of excessive body weight and elevated blood pressure from childhood on left ventricular geometric remodeling in adulthood.

    PubMed

    Yan, Yinkun; Liu, Junting; Wang, Liang; Hou, Dongqing; Zhao, Xiaoyuan; Cheng, Hong; Mi, Jie

    2017-09-15

    Obesity and hypertension are two risk factors of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in adults. We aimed to examine the impacts of body weight and blood pressure (BP) from childhood on adult LV geometric remodeling. The study cohort consisted of 1256 adults aged 27-42years who had 2-10 measurements of body mass index (BMI) and BP from childhood in 1987 to adulthood in 2010. We calculated the cumulative and incremental values of BMI and BP from childhood to adulthood. In adulthood, four LV geometric patterns were defined based on the values of left ventricular mass index (g/m 2.7 ) and relative wall thickness: normal geometry, concentric remodeling (CR), eccentric hypertrophy (EH) and concentric hypertrophy (CH). The prevalence of abnormal LV geometric patterns in adults was 26.4% for CR, 2.0% for EH and 2.5% for CH. For childhood values, systolic BP (Odds Ratio [OR]=1.26, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.08-1.47) but not BMI (OR=1.06, 95%CI=0.93-1.18) was associated with adult CR, whereas BMI (OR=3.53, 95%CI=2.09-5.98) but not systolic BP (OR=1.04, 95%CI=0.65-1.66) was associated with adult EH. Both childhood BMI (OR=2.69, 95%CI=1.77-4.09) and systolic BP (OR=1.64, 95%CI=1.07-2.51) were independently associated with adult CH. For adulthood, cumulative and incremental values, BMI and systolic BP were independently associated with adult CR, EH and CH. Excessive body weight and elevated BP from childhood have independent influences on the development of adult LV geometric remodeling. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) inhibits postmyocardial infarct remodeling and restores ventricular function.

    PubMed

    Liu, Xiaoli; Pachori, Alok S; Ward, Christopher A; Davis, J Paul; Gnecchi, Massimiliano; Kong, Deling; Zhang, Lunan; Murduck, Jared; Yet, Shaw-Fang; Perrella, Mark A; Pratt, Richard E; Dzau, Victor J; Melo, Luis G

    2006-02-01

    We reported previously that predelivery of the anti-oxidant gene heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) to the heart by adeno associated virus (AAV) markedly reduces injury after acute myocardial infarction (MI). However, the effect of HO-1 gene delivery on postinfarction recovery has not been investigated. In the current study, we assessed the effect of HO-1 gene delivery on post-MI left ventricle (LV) remodeling and function using echocardiographic imaging and histomorphometric approaches. Two groups of Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with 4 x 10(11) particles of AAV-LacZ (control) or AAV-hHO-1 in the LV wall. Eight wk after gene transfer, the animals were subjected to 30 min of ischemia by ligation of left anterior descending artery (LAD) followed by reperfusion. Echocardiographic measurements were obtained in a blinded fashion prior and at 1.5 and 3 months after I/R. Ejection fraction (EF) was reduced by 13% and 40% in the HO-1 and LacZ groups, respectively at 1.5 months after MI. Three months after MI, EF recovered fully in the HO-1, but only partially in the LacZ-treated animals. Post-MI LV dimensions were markedly increased and the anterior wall was markedly thinned in the LacZ-treated animals compared with the HO-1-treated animals. Significant myocardial scarring and fibrosis were observed in the LacZ-group in association with elevated levels of interstitial collagen I and III and MMP-2 activity. Post-MI myofibroblast accumulation was reduced in the HO-1-treated animals, and retroviral overexpression of HO-1 reduced proliferation of isolated cardiac fibroblasts. Our data indicate that rAAV-HO-1 gene transfer markedly reduces fibrosis and ventricular remodeling and restores LV function and chamber dimensions after myocardial infarction.

  19. Molecular biology based assessment of green tea effects on oxidative stress and cardiac remodelling in dialysis patients.

    PubMed

    Calo, Lorenzo A; Vertolli, Ugo; Davis, Paul A; Maso, Lucia Dal; Pagnin, Elisa; Ravarotto, Verdiana; Maiolino, Giuseppe; Lupia, Mario; Seccia, Teresa M; Rossi, Gian Paolo

    2014-06-01

    Cardiovascular disease, the most common cause for morbidity and mortality in end-stage renal disease (ESRD), has prompted the exploration of multiple approaches to improve outcomes. Cardiovascular risk factors such as oxidative stress (OxSt) and cardiac remodelling are common in ESRD and dialysis patients. Green tea (GT) is well recognized as reducing OxSt. This 6 months study evaluated in 20 ESRD patients under chronic dialysis, the effect of GT treatment (1 g/day as commercially available capsule) on cellular and plasma OxSt and proliferation related markers using a molecular biology approach. Mononuclear cell p22(phox), Haeme Oxygenase (HO)-1 protein expression, and phosphorylated ERK1/2 status were evaluated in dialysis patients at baseline, after 3 and 6 months of GT treatment by Western blot analysis and plasma oxLDL by ELISA. Cardiac remodelling was assessed by echocardiographic left ventricular (LV) mass determination at baseline and at the end of the study. GT treatment reduced p22(phox) and pERK1/2 from baseline while HO-1 increased. At baseline, LV mass correlated with both p22(phox) and oxLDL. GT treatment decreased LV mass from baseline, which correlated with oxLDL. 9 patients had LV hypertrophy at baseline, which, at 6 months, was normalized in 5 and reduced in 3, showing a parallel decrease of p22(phox), pERK1/2, oxLDL and increase of HO-1. Treatment with GT decreased the expression of OxSt-related proteins tightly associated with cardiovascular disease and decreased LV mass. It appears highly likely that the addition of GT can provide a benefit in terms of cardiovascular protection in dialysis patients. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.

  20. Adverse remodeling of the electrophysiological response to ischemia-reperfusion in human heart failure is associated with remodeling of metabolic gene expression.

    PubMed

    Ng, Fu Siong; Holzem, Katherine M; Koppel, Aaron C; Janks, Deborah; Gordon, Fabiana; Wit, Andrew L; Peters, Nicholas S; Efimov, Igor R

    2014-10-01

    Ventricular arrhythmias occur more frequently in heart failure during episodes of ischemia-reperfusion although the mechanisms underlying this in humans are unclear. We assessed, in explanted human hearts, the remodeled electrophysiological response to acute ischemia-reperfusion in heart failure and its potential causes, including the remodeling of metabolic gene expression. We optically mapped coronary-perfused left ventricular wedge preparations from 6 human end-stage failing hearts (F) and 6 donor hearts rejected for transplantation (D). Preparations were subjected to 30 minutes of global ischemia, followed by 30 minutes of reperfusion. Failing hearts had exaggerated electrophysiological responses to ischemia-reperfusion, with greater action potential duration shortening (P<0.001 at 8-minute ischemia; P=0.001 at 12-minute ischemia) and greater conduction slowing during ischemia, delayed recovery of electric excitability after reperfusion (F, 4.8±1.8 versus D, 1.0±0 minutes; P<0.05), and incomplete restoration of action potential duration and conduction velocity early after reperfusion. Expression of 46 metabolic genes was probed using custom-designed TaqMan arrays, using extracted RNA from 15 failing and 9 donor hearts. Ten genes important in cardiac metabolism were downregulated in heart failure, with SLC27A4 and KCNJ11 significantly downregulated at a false discovery rate of 0%. We demonstrate, for the first time in human hearts, that the electrophysiological response to ischemia-reperfusion in heart failure is accelerated during ischemia with slower recovery after reperfusion. This can enhance spatial conduction and repolarization gradients across the ischemic border and increase arrhythmia susceptibility. This adverse response was associated with downregulation of expression of cardiac metabolic genes. © 2014 American Heart Association, Inc.

  1. INCREASED MYOCARDIAL STIFFNESS DUE TO CARDIAC TITIN ISOFORM SWITCHING IN A MOUSE MODEL OF VOLUME OVERLOAD LIMITS ECCENTRIC REMODELING

    PubMed Central

    Hutchinson, Kirk R; Saripalli, Chandra; Chung, Charles S.; Granzier, Henk

    2014-01-01

    We investigated the cellular and molecular mechanisms of diastolic dysfunction in pure volume overload induced by aortocaval fistula (ACF) surgery in the mouse. Four weeks of volume overload resulted in significant biventricular hypertrophy; protein expression analysis in left ventricular (LV) tissue showed a marked decrease in titin's N2BA/N2B ratio with no change in phosphorylation of titin's spring region. Titin-based passive tensions were significantly increased; a result of the decreased N2BA/N2B ratio. Conscious echocardiography in ACF mice revealed eccentric remodeling and pressure volume analysis revealed systolic dysfunction: reductions in ejection fraction (EF), +dP/dt, and the slope of the endsystolic pressure volume relationships (ESPVR). ACF mice also had diastolic dysfunction: increased LV end-diastolic pressure and reduced relaxation rates. Additionally, a decrease in the slope of the end diastolic pressure volume relationship (EDPVR) was found. However, correcting for altered geometry of the LV normalized the change in EDPVR and revealed, in line with our skinned muscle data, increased myocardial stiffness in vivo. ACF mice also had increased expression of the signaling proteins FHL-1, FHL-2, and CARP that bind to titin's spring region suggesting that titin stiffening is important to the volume overload phenotype. To test this we investigated the effect of volume overload in the RBM20 heterozygous (HET) mouse model, which exhibits reduced titin stiffness. It was found that LV hypertrophy was attenuated and that LV eccentricity was exacerbated. We propose that pure volume overload induces an increase in titin stiffness that is beneficial and limits eccentric remodeling. PMID:25450617

  2. Long-term effects of sildenafil in a rat model of chronic mitral regurgitation: benefits of ventricular remodeling and exercise capacity.

    PubMed

    Kim, Kyung-Hee; Kim, Yong-Jin; Ohn, Jung-Hun; Yang, Jimin; Lee, Sang-Eun; Lee, Sae-Won; Kim, Hyung-Kwan; Seo, Jeong-Wook; Sohn, Dae-Won

    2012-03-20

    We tested the hypothesis that chronic treatment with sildenafil attenuates left ventricular (LV) remodeling and prevents exercise intolerance in chronic mitral regurgitation (MR). MR was created in Sprague-Dawley rats by making a hole on the mitral leaflet. Two weeks after MR creation, MR and LV dilatation were confirmed by echocardiography, and rats were randomly assigned to sildenafil treatment (MR+sildenafil group; 50 mg/kg PO twice a day; n=16) or normal saline only (MR group; n=16) and continued for 4 months. Sixteen sham rats were compared with MR rats. After 4 months, LV size was smaller in the MR+sildenafil compared with the MR group (LV end-systolic dimension, 4.7±0.3 for sham versus 5.9±0.3 for MR+sildenafil versus 7.4±0.5 mm for MR; P<0.05; LV end-diastolic dimension, 8.3±0.4 versus 10.5±0.2 versus 11.7±0.61 mm, respectively; P<0.05). LV ejection fraction was greater in the MR+sildenafil group than in the MR group (70.2±2.2 for sham versus 67.0±4.2 for MR+sildenafil versus 58.9±2.5 for MR; P=0.01). Serial treadmill test revealed that exercise capacity was reduced in the MR but not in the MR+sildenafil group. Transcriptional profiling of cardiac apical tissues revealed that gene sets related to inflammatory response, DNA damage response, cell cycle checkpoint, and cellular signaling pathways were significantly enriched by genes with reciprocal changes. Pathological analysis showed that perivascular fibrosis was more prominent in the MR than in the MR+sildenafil group and that the percentage of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling-positive cells was 2-fold greater in the MR compared with the MR+sildenafil group. Sildenafil significantly attenuates LV remodeling and prevents exercise intolerance in a rat model of chronic MR. This benefit may be associated with the antiapoptotic, anti-inflammatory effects of sildenafil.

  3. Relationship between Myocardial Extracellular Space Expansion Estimated with Post-Contrast T1 Mapping MRI and Left Ventricular Remodeling and Neurohormonal Activation in Patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy.

    PubMed

    Yoon, Ji Hyun; Son, Jung Woo; Chung, Hyemoon; Park, Chul Hwan; Kim, Young-Jin; Chang, Hyuk-Jae; Hong, Geu-Ru; Kim, Tae Hoon; Ha, Jong-Won; Choi, Byoung Wook; Rim, Se-Joong; Chung, Namsik; Choi, Eui-Young

    2015-01-01

    Post-contrast T1 values are closely related to the degree of myocardial extracellular space expansion. We determined the relationship between post-contrast T1 values and left ventricular (LV) diastolic function, LV remodeling, and neurohormonal activation in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Fifty-nine patients with DCM (mean age, 55 ± 15 years; 41 males and 18 females) who underwent both 1.5T magnetic resonance imaging and echocardiography were enrolled. The post-contrast 10-minute T1 value was generated from inversion time scout images obtained using the Look-Locker inversion recovery sequence and a curve-fitting algorithm. The T1 sample volume was obtained from three interventricular septal points, and the mean T1 value was used for analysis. The N-Terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) level was measured in 40 patients. The mean LV ejection fraction was 24 ± 9% and the post-T1 value was 254.5 ± 46.4 ms. The post-contrast T1 value was significantly correlated with systolic longitudinal septal velocity (s'), peak late diastolic velocity of the mitral annulus (a'), the diastolic elastance index (Ed, [E/e']/stroke volume), LV mass/volume ratio, LV end-diastolic wall stress, and LV end-systolic wall stress. In a multivariate analysis without NT-proBNP, T1 values were independently correlated with Ed (β = -0.351, p = 0.016) and the LV mass/volume ratio (β = 0.495, p = 0.001). When NT-proBNP was used in the analysis, NT-proBNP was independently correlated with the T1 values (β = -0.339, p = 0.017). Post-contrast T1 is closely related to LV remodeling, diastolic function, and neurohormonal activation in patients with DCM.

  4. Perinatal outcomes associated with abnormal cardiac remodeling in women with treated chronic hypertension.

    PubMed

    Ambia, Anne M; Morgan, Jamie L; Wells, C Edward; Roberts, Scott W; Sanghavi, Monika; Nelson, David B; Cunningham, F Gary

    2018-05-01

    Adverse maternal outcomes associated with chronic hypertension include accelerated hypertension and resultant target organ damage. One example is long-standing hypertension leading to maternal cardiac dysfunction. Our group has previously identified that features of such injury manifest as cardiac remodeling with left ventricular hypertrophy. Moreover, these features of cardiac remodeling identified in women with chronic hypertension during pregnancy were associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. Recent definitions of maternal cardiac remodeling using echocardiography have been expanded to include measurements of wall thickness. We hypothesized that these new features characterizing cardiac remodeling in women with chronic hypertension may also be associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. There were 3 aims in this study of women with treated chronic hypertension during pregnancy: to (1) apply the updated definitions of maternal cardiac remodeling; (2) elucidate whether these features of cardiac remodeling were associated with adverse perinatal outcomes; and (3) determine which, if any, of the newly defined cardiac remodeling strata were most damaging when compared to women with normal cardiac geometry. This was a retrospective study of women with treated chronic hypertension during pregnancy delivered from January 2009 through January 2016. Cardiac remodeling was categorized by left ventricular mass index and relative wall thickness into 4 groups determined using the 2015 American Society of Echocardiography guidelines: normal geometry, concentric remodeling, eccentric hypertrophy, and concentric hypertrophy. Perinatal outcomes were analyzed according to each category of cardiac remodeling compared with outcomes in women with normal geometry. A total of 314 women with treated chronic hypertension underwent echocardiography at a mean gestational age of 17.9 weeks. There were no differences between maternal age (P = .896), habitus (P = .36), or duration of

  5. Left ventricular mass, geometry and function in diabetic patients affected by coronary artery disease.

    PubMed

    Maiello, Maria; Zito, Annapaola; Carbonara, Santa; Ciccone, Marco Matteo; Palmiero, Pasquale

    2017-10-01

    Coronary artery disease (CAD) is quite common among diabetic patients, our study goal is to detect the prevalence of left ventricular (LV) adverse changes in geometry, mass and diastolic function on diabetic, but not hypertensive patients, with coronary artery disease(CAD) and LV ejection fraction(LVEF)>45%, actually unknown, because of current guidelines that do not include echocardiographic assessment for follow up of diabetic patients. 665 consecutive diabetic patients (443 females, mean age 66±9years), performed a complete echocardiographic assessment according to current ASE echo-guidelines: diastolic dysfunction (DD), eccentric hypertrophy (EH), concentric hypertrophy (CH) and concentric remodeling (CR) of LV were reported. CAD was assessed only by reports of bypass surgery, angioplasty or patients hospitalized for acute myocardial infarction. 218 patients (32.8%) presented LV changes: LVDD 49 (7.4%), LVEH 68 (10.2%), LVDD and EH 46 (6.9%), LVDD and CH 36 (5.4%), LVDD and CR 19 (2.9%). 447 (67.2%) had no LV changes. 81 (12.1%) patients with CAD, presented: LVDD 17 (21%), LVEH 32 (39.5%), LVDD and EH 9 (11.1%), LVDD and CH 7 (8.6%), LVDD and CR 8 (9.9%), 8 (9.9%) had no LV adverse changes. There were among CAD patients, a significantly higher prevalence of LVDD (p<0.02), LV eccentric hypertrophy (EH) (p<0.05), DD and LVEH (p<0.04), DD and LV concentric hypertrophy(CH) (p<0.03) and DD and LV concentric remodeling (p<0.02), when compared with those patients without CAD. CAD is related to all different patterns of LV adverse changes in mass, geometry and diastolic function, with a significantly higher prevalence in our population of diabetic patients with normal systolic function. These changes however remain unrecognized until they undergo to a conventional echocardiographic assessment. We support this tool need to be included into future guidelines concerning follow-up of diabetic patients. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. Effect of obesity reduction on preservation of heart function and attenuation of left ventricular remodeling, oxidative stress and inflammation in obese mice

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background Obesity is an important cardiovascular risk factor. This study tested the effect of obesity reduction on preserving left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and attenuating inflammation, oxidative stress and LV remodeling in obese mice. Methods and results Eight-week-old C57BL/6 J mice (n=24) were equally divided into control (fed a control diet for 22 weeks), obesity (high-fat diet, 22 weeks), and obese reduction (OR) (high-fat diet, 14 weeks; then control diet, 8 weeks). Animals were sacrificed at post 22-week high-fat diet and the LV myocardium collected. Heart weight, body weight, abdominal-fat weight, total cholesterol level and fasting blood glucose were higher in obesity than in control and OR (all p<0.001). Inflammation measured by mRNA expressions of IL-6, MMP-9, PAI-1 and leptin and protein expression of NF-κB was higher, whereas anti-inflammation measured by mRNA expressions of adiponectin and INF-γ was lower in obesity than in control and OR (all p<0.003). Oxidative protein expressions of NOX-1, NOX-2 and oxidized protein were higher, whereas expression of anti-oxidant markers HO-1 and NQO-1 were lower (all p<0.01); and apoptosis measured by Bax and caspase 3 was higher, whereas anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 was lower in obesity as compared with control and OR (all p<0.001). The expressions of fibrotic markers phosphorylated Smad3 and TGF-β were higher, whereas expression of anti-fibrotic phosphorylated Smad1/5 and BMP-2 were lower (all p<0.02); and LVEF was lower, whereas the LV remodeling was higher in obesity than in control and OR (all p<0.001). Conclusion Impaired LVEF, enhanced LV remodeling, inflammation, fibrosis, oxidative stress and apoptosis were reversed by reduction in mouse obesity. PMID:22784636

  7. Post-infarct treatment with [Pyr1]apelin-13 exerts anti-remodelling and anti-apoptotic effects in rats' hearts.

    PubMed

    Azizi, Yaser; Imani, Alireza; Fanaei, Hamed; Khamse, Safoura; Parvizi, Mohammad Reza; Faghihi, Mahdieh

    2017-01-01

    Ischaemic heart disease is the main cause of mortality in the world. After myocardial infarction (MI) cardiomyocytes apoptosis and ventricular remodelling have occurred. Apelin is a peptide that has been shown to exert cardioprotective effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-apoptotic and anti-remodelling effects of [Pyr¹]apelin-13 in the rat model of post-MI. Thirty-six male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: (1) sham, (2) MI, and (3) MI treated with [Pyr¹] apelin-13 (MI+Apel). MI animals were subjected to 30-min ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) and 14 days of reperfusion. Twenty-four hours after LAD ligation, [Pyr¹]apelin-13 (10 nmol/kg/day, i.p.) was administered for five consecutive days. Hypertrophic parameters, left ventricular (LV) remodelling, and gene expression of Apel, apelin receptor (Apelr), Bax, caspase-3 (Casp-3), and Bcl-2 by real-time polymerase chain reaction and cardiomyocytes apoptosis by TUNEL immunostaining were assessed on day 14 post-MI. Post-infarct treatment with [Pyr¹]apelin-13 improved myocardial hypertrophic and LV remodelling parameters and led to a significant increase in the expression of Apel, Apelr, and Bcl-2, and a decrease in the expression of Bax and Casp-3. Furthermore, treatment with [Pyr¹]apelin-13 decreased cardiomyocyte apoptosis. [Pyr¹]apelin-13 has anti-hypertrophic, anti-remodelling, and anti-apoptotic effects via overexpression of Apel, Apelr, and Bcl-2 and reduces gene expression of Bax and Casp-3 in the infarcted myocardium, which can in turn lead to repair myocardium.

  8. MicroRNA 21 Inhibits Left Ventricular Remodeling in the Early Phase of Rat Model with Ischemia-reperfusion Injury by Suppressing Cell Apoptosis

    PubMed Central

    Qin, Yanjun; Yu, Yueqing; Dong, Hua; Bian, Xiaohua; Guo, Xuan; Dong, Shimin

    2012-01-01

    Objective: To determine the role of microRNA 21(miR-21) on left ventricular remodeling of rat heart with ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury and to investigate the underlying mechanism of miR-21 mediated myocardium protection. Methods: Rats were randomly divided into three groups: an I/R model group with Ad-GFP (Ad-GFP group), an I/R model group with Ad-miR-21 (Ad-miR-21 group) and a sham-surgery group. Changes in hemodynamic parameters were recorded at 1 week after I/R. Histological diagnosis was achieved by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E). Left ventricular (LV) dimensions, myocardial infarct size, LV/BW, collagen type Ⅰ, type Ⅲ and PCNA positive cells were measured. Primary cultures of neonatal rat cardiac ventricular myocytes were performed and cell ischemic injury was induced by hypoxia in a serum- and glucose-free medium, and reoxygenation (H/R).MiR-21 inhibitor and pre-miR-21 were respectively added to the culture medium for the miR-21 knockdown and for the miR-21 up-regulation. qRT-PCR was used to determine the miR-21 levels in cultured cells. Flow cytometry was performed to examine the cell apoptosis. Results: In the Ad-miR-21 group, LV dimensions, myocardial infarct size, LV/BW, collagen type Ⅰ, type Ⅲ and PCNA positive cells all significantly decreased compared with the Ad-GFP group. At 1 week after I/R, the Ad-miR-21 significantly improved LVSP, LV +dp/dtmax, LV − dp/dtmin, and decreased heart rate (HR) and LVEDP compared with the Ad-GFP group. Compared with the Ad-GFP, the cell apoptotic rate significantly decreased in the Ad-miR-21 group. The miR-21 inhibitor exacerbated cardiac myocyte apoptosis and the pre-miR-21 decreased hypoxia/reoxygenation- induced cardiac myocyte apoptosis. Conclusions: Ad-miR-21 improves LV remodeling and decreases the apoptosis of myocardial cells, suggesting the possible mechanism by which Ad-miR-21 functions in protecting against I/R injury. PMID:22859901

  9. A targeted mutation within the feline leukemia virus (FeLV) envelope protein immunosuppressive domain to improve a canarypox virus-vectored FeLV vaccine.

    PubMed

    Schlecht-Louf, Géraldine; Mangeney, Marianne; El-Garch, Hanane; Lacombe, Valérie; Poulet, Hervé; Heidmann, Thierry

    2014-01-01

    We previously delineated a highly conserved immunosuppressive (IS) domain within murine and primate retroviral envelope proteins that is critical for virus propagation in vivo. The envelope-mediated immunosuppression was assessed by the ability of the proteins, when expressed by allogeneic tumor cells normally rejected by engrafted mice, to allow these cells to escape, at least transiently, immune rejection. Using this approach, we identified key residues whose mutation (i) specifically abolishes immunosuppressive activity without affecting the "mechanical" function of the envelope protein and (ii) significantly enhances humoral and cellular immune responses elicited against the virus. The objective of this work was to study the immunosuppressive activity of the envelope protein (p15E) of feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and evaluate the effect of its abolition on the efficacy of a vaccine against FeLV. Here we demonstrate that the FeLV envelope protein is immunosuppressive in vivo and that this immunosuppressive activity can be "switched off" by targeted mutation of a specific amino acid. As a result of the introduction of the mutated envelope sequence into a previously well characterized canarypox virus-vectored vaccine (ALVAC-FeLV), the frequency of vaccine-induced FeLV-specific gamma interferon (IFN-γ)-producing cells was increased, whereas conversely, the frequency of vaccine-induced FeLV-specific interleukin-10 (IL-10)-producing cells was reduced. This shift in the IFN-γ/IL-10 response was associated with a higher efficacy of ALVAC-FeLV against FeLV infection. This study demonstrates that FeLV p15E is immunosuppressive in vivo, that the immunosuppressive domain of p15E can modulate the FeLV-specific immune response, and that the efficacy of FeLV vaccines can be enhanced by inhibiting the immunosuppressive activity of the IS domain through an appropriate mutation.

  10. Aerobic exercise training promotes physiological cardiac remodeling involving a set of microRNAs

    PubMed Central

    Fernandes, Tiago; Baraúna, Valério G.; Negrão, Carlos E.; Phillips, M. Ian

    2015-01-01

    Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy is an important physiological compensatory mechanism in response to chronic increase in hemodynamic overload. There are two different forms of LV hypertrophy, one physiological and another pathological. Aerobic exercise induces beneficial physiological LV remodeling. The molecular/cellular mechanisms for this effect are not totally known, and here we review various mechanisms including the role of microRNA (miRNA). Studies in the heart, have identified antihypertrophic miRNA-1, -133, -26, -9, -98, -29, -378, and -145 and prohypertrophic miRNA-143, -103, -130a, -146a, -21, -210, -221, -222, -27a/b, -199a/b, -208, -195, -499, -34a/b/c, -497, -23a, and -15a/b. Four miRNAs are recognized as cardiac-specific: miRNA-1, -133a/b, -208a/b, and -499 and called myomiRs. In our studies we have shown that miRNAs respond to swimming aerobic exercise by 1) decreasing cardiac fibrosis through miRNA-29 increasing and inhibiting collagen, 2) increasing angiogenesis through miRNA-126 by inhibiting negative regulators of the VEGF pathway, and 3) modulating the renin-angiotensin system through the miRNAs-27a/b and -143. Exercise training also increases cardiomyocyte growth and survival by swimming-regulated miRNA-1, -21, -27a/b, -29a/c, -30e, -99b, -100, -124, -126, -133a/b, -143, -144, -145, -208a, and -222 and running-regulated miRNA-1, -26, -27a, -133, -143, -150, and -222, which influence genes associated with the heart remodeling and angiogenesis. We conclude that there is a potential role of these miRNAs in promoting cardioprotective effects on physiological growth. PMID:26071549

  11. Deep RNA sequencing reveals dynamic regulation of myocardial noncoding RNAs in failing human heart and remodeling with mechanical circulatory support.

    PubMed

    Yang, Kai-Chien; Yamada, Kathryn A; Patel, Akshar Y; Topkara, Veli K; George, Isaac; Cheema, Faisal H; Ewald, Gregory A; Mann, Douglas L; Nerbonne, Jeanne M

    2014-03-04

    Microarrays have been used extensively to profile transcriptome remodeling in failing human heart, although the genomic coverage provided is limited and fails to provide a detailed picture of the myocardial transcriptome landscape. Here, we describe sequencing-based transcriptome profiling, providing comprehensive analysis of myocardial mRNA, microRNA (miRNA), and long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) expression in failing human heart before and after mechanical support with a left ventricular (LV) assist device (LVAD). Deep sequencing of RNA isolated from paired nonischemic (NICM; n=8) and ischemic (ICM; n=8) human failing LV samples collected before and after LVAD and from nonfailing human LV (n=8) was conducted. These analyses revealed high abundance of mRNA (37%) and lncRNA (71%) of mitochondrial origin. miRNASeq revealed 160 and 147 differentially expressed miRNAs in ICM and NICM, respectively, compared with nonfailing LV. Among these, only 2 (ICM) and 5 (NICM) miRNAs are normalized with LVAD. RNASeq detected 18 480, including 113 novel, lncRNAs in human LV. Among the 679 (ICM) and 570 (NICM) lncRNAs differentially expressed with heart failure, ≈10% are improved or normalized with LVAD. In addition, the expression signature of lncRNAs, but not miRNAs or mRNAs, distinguishes ICM from NICM. Further analysis suggests that cis-gene regulation represents a major mechanism of action of human cardiac lncRNAs. The myocardial transcriptome is dynamically regulated in advanced heart failure and after LVAD support. The expression profiles of lncRNAs, but not mRNAs or miRNAs, can discriminate failing hearts of different pathologies and are markedly altered in response to LVAD support. These results suggest an important role for lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of heart failure and in reverse remodeling observed with mechanical support.

  12. Assessment of the LV-S2 & LV-S3 Stack Sampling Probe Locations for Compliance with ANSI/HPS N13.1-1999

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Glissmeyer, John A.; Antonio, Ernest J.; Flaherty, Julia E.

    2014-09-30

    This document reports on a series of tests conducted to assess the proposed air sampling locations for the Hanford Tank Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant (WTP) Group 1-2A exhaust stacks with respect to the applicable criteria regarding the placement of an air sampling probe. The LV-C2, LV-S2, and LV-S3 exhaust stacks were tested together as a group (Test Group 1-2A). This report only covers the results of LV-S2 and LV-S3; LV-C2 will be reported on separately. Federal regulations1 require that a sampling probe be located in the exhaust stack according to the criteria established by the American National Standards Institute/Healthmore » Physics Society (ANSI/HPS) N13.1-1999, Sampling and Monitoring Releases of Airborne Radioactive Substances from the Stack and Ducts of Nuclear Facilities. 2 These criteria address the capability of the sampling probe to extract a sample that represents the effluent stream.« less

  13. Effects of hawthorn on cardiac remodeling and left ventricular dysfunction after 1 month of pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy in rats.

    PubMed

    Hwang, Hyun Seok; Bleske, Barry E; Ghannam, Michael M J; Converso, Kimber; Russell, Mark W; Hunter, James C; Boluyt, Marvin O

    2008-02-01

    Hawthorn (Crataegus) is a natural product used to treat patients with heart failure. The effects of hawthorn on cardiac remodeling, however, are not known. The purpose was to determine the effects of hawthorn treatment on remodeling and function of the left ventricle (LV) after 1 month of pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy. Sprague-Dawley rats (male, 300 g) were subjected to sham operation (SH) or aortic constriction (AC) for 4 weeks and treated with Hawthorn (Crataegus-Extract- WS1442;1.3, 13, 130 mg kg(-1) day(-1); AC-L, AC-M, AC-H) or vehicle (SH-V, AC-V) for 3 weeks after surgery. Systolic and diastolic function were measured using echocardiographic assessment at baseline and 4 weeks after AC. AC increased the LV/body weight ratio by 34% in vehicle and hawthorn treated rats. Hawthorn markedly reduced LV chamber volumes (VOL) after AC [systolic VOL, mean +/- SEM, mm(3): SH-V, 87 +/- 13; AC-V, 93 +/- 12; AC-L, 62 +/- 9; AC-M, 68 +/- 12; AC-H; 50 +/- 11 and diastolic VOL: SH-V, 433 +/- 45; AC-V, 412 +/- 57; AC-L, 313 +/- 25; AC-M, 319 +/- 37; AC-H, 264 +/- 25 (p < 0.05)] and augmented relative wall thickness, mm: SH-V, 0.45 +/- 0.02; AC-V, 0.65 +/- 0.05; AC-L, 0.71 +/- 0.03; AC-M, 0.74 +/- 0.06; AC-H, 0.80 +/- 0.09 (p < 0.05). AC reduced velocity of circumferential shortening (Vcf(c)) by 28% compared with SH-V. Hawthorn attenuated the AC-induced decrease in Vcf(c) (p < 0.05). Hawthorn treatment modifies left ventricular remodeling and counteracts myocardial dysfunction in early pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy.

  14. Early effects of zoledronic acid and teriparatide on bone microarchitecture, remodeling and collagen crosslinks: comparison between iliac crest and lumbar vertebra in ewes.

    PubMed

    Portero-Muzy, N R; Chavassieux, P M; Bouxsein, M L; Gineyts, E; Garnero, P; Chapurlat, R D

    2012-10-01

    Iliac crest bone biopsies are used to assess the mechanism of action of drug treatments, yet there are little data comparing this site to sites prone to fracture. The purpose of this study was to compare the delay and the amplitude of responses to treatment in two different bone sites. The short-term effects of zoledronic acid and teriparatide on microarchitecture, collagen crosslinks and bone remodeling were evaluated in iliac crest and lumbar vertebrae. Aged ewes (n=8/gr) received either vehicle (CTRL) or a single injection of zoledronic acid (ZOL, 10mg) or daily injections of teriparatide (TPTD, 20 μg/d) for 3 months. Blood samples were collected monthly for assessing bone turnover markers. At the end of the study, a transiliac bone biopsy (IC) and L1 lumbar vertebrae (LV1) were collected to assess bone microarchitecture; pyridinoline (PYD), deoxypyridinoline (DPD), pentosidine (PEN) content, static and dynamic parameters of bone remodeling. In CTRL, Tb-BV/TV was significantly higher in LV1 than IC (p<0.0001). This was associated with a trend of higher Tb.N, Tb.Th, DA, an inferior Conn.D and a lower bone turnover as shown by the decreases of osteoid parameters, MS/BS, Ac.f in LV1 when compared to IC. In addition, the ratio PYD/DPD was 4 times higher in LV1 than IC. After 3 months, significant decreases of sALP (p<0.001) and sCTX (p<0.001) were observed in the ZOL-group whereas in TPTD-group, after transient increases, they returned to baseline values. When compared to their respective CTRL, ZOL induced significant increases in Tb.BV/TV, Conn.D, Tb.N and Tb.Sp, in IC but not in LV1. Regardless of the site, ZOL markedly depressed the bone turnover: The static parameters of bone formation significantly decreased and the diminution of MS/BS, BFR/BS and Ac.f varied from -94 to -98% vs CTRL (p<0.01 to 0.001). It was associated with a diminution of the DPD content and the PYD/DPD ratio mainly in IC cortices. In contrast, after 3 months, TPTD did not modify the 3D

  15. Inhibition of Let-7 microRNA attenuates myocardial remodeling and improves cardiac function postinfarction in mice

    PubMed Central

    Tolonen, Anna-Maria; Magga, Johanna; Szabó, Zoltán; Viitala, Pirkko; Gao, Erhe; Moilanen, Anne-Mari; Ohukainen, Pauli; Vainio, Laura; Koch, Walter J; Kerkelä, Risto; Ruskoaho, Heikki; Serpi, Raisa

    2014-01-01

    The members of lethal-7 (Let-7) microRNA (miRNA) family are involved in regulation of cell differentiation and reprogramming of somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells. However, their function in the heart is not known. In this study, we examined the effect of inhibiting the function of Let-7c miRNA on the progression of postinfarction left ventricular (LV) remodeling in mice. Myocardial infarction was induced with permanent ligation of left anterior descending coronary artery with a 4-week follow-up period. Let-7c miRNA was inhibited with a specific antagomir administered intravenously. The inhibition of Let-7c miRNA downregulated the levels of mature Let-7c miRNA and its other closely related members of Let-7 family in the heart and resulted in increased expression of pluripotency-associated genes Oct4 and Sox2 in cardiac fibroblasts in vitro and in adult mouse heart in vivo. Importantly, Let-7c inhibitor prevented the deterioration of cardiac function postinfarction, as demonstrated by preserved LV ejection fraction and elevated cardiac output. Improvement in cardiac function by Let-7c inhibitor postinfarction was associated with decreased apoptosis, reduced fibrosis, and reduction in the number of discoidin domain receptor 2–positive fibroblasts, while the number of c-kit+ cardiac stem cells and Ki-67+ proliferating cells remained unaltered. In conclusion, inhibition of Let-7 miRNA may be beneficial for the prevention of postinfarction LV remodeling and progression of heart failure. PMID:25505600

  16. Short-term adaptation and chronic cardiac remodelling to high altitude in lowlander natives and Himalayan Sherpa.

    PubMed

    Stembridge, Mike; Ainslie, Philip N; Shave, Rob

    2015-11-01

    What is the topic of this review? At high altitude, the cardiovascular system must adapt in order to meet the metabolic demand for oxygen. This review summarizes recent findings relating to short-term and life-long cardiac adaptation to high altitude in the context of exercise capacity. What advances does it highlight? Both Sherpa and lowlanders exhibit smaller left ventricular volumes at high altitude; however, myocardial relaxation, as evidenced by diastolic untwist, is reduced only in Sherpa, indicating that short-term hypoxia does not impair diastolic relaxation. Potential remodelling of systolic function, as evidenced by lower left ventricular systolic twist in Sherpa, may facilitate the requisite sea-level mechanical reserve required during exercise, although this remains to be confirmed. Both short-term and life-long high-altitude exposure challenge the cardiovascular system to meet the metabolic demand for O2 in a hypoxic environment. As the demand for O2 delivery increases during exercise, the circulatory component of oxygen transport is placed under additional stress. Acute adaptation and chronic remodelling of cardiac structure and function may occur to facilitate O2 delivery in lowlanders during sojourn to high altitude and in permanent highland residents. However, our understanding of cardiac structural and functional adaption in Sherpa remains confined to a higher maximal heart rate, lower pulmonary vascular resistance and no differences in resting cardiac output. Ventricular form and function are intrinsically linked through the left ventricular (LV) mechanics that facilitate efficient ejection, minimize myofibre stress during contraction and aid diastolic recoil. Recent examination of LV mechanics has allowed detailed insight into fundamental cardiac adaptation in high-altitude Sherpa. In this symposium report, we review recent advances in our understanding of LV function in both lowlanders and Sherpa at rest and discuss the potential consequences

  17. Regression of left ventricular hypertrophy and aortic remodelling in NO-deficient hypertensive rats: effect of L-arginine and spironolactone.

    PubMed

    Paulis, L; Matuskova, J; Adamcova, M; Pelouch, V; Simko, J; Krajcirovicova, K; Potacova, A; Hulin, I; Janega, P; Pechanova, O; Simko, F

    2008-09-01

    We investigated, whether the substrate for nitric oxide (NO) formation -L-arginine - and the aldosterone receptor antagonist - spironolactone - are able to reverse alterations of the left ventricle (LV) and aorta in N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)-induced hypertension. Six groups of male adult Wistar rats were investigated: controls after 4 and 7 weeks of experiment, rats treated with L-NAME for 4 weeks and three recovery groups: spontaneous-reversion (4 weeks L-NAME + 3 weeks placebo), spironolactone-induced reversion (4 weeks L-NAME + 3 weeks spironolactone) and L-arginine-induced reversion (4 weeks L-NAME+ 3 weeks L-arginine). Blood pressure was measured by tail-cuff plethysmography. Relative weight of the LV, myocardial fibrosis (based upon histomorphometry and hydroxyproline determination) and conjugated dienes in the LV and aortic cross-sectional area, inner diameter and wall thickness were determined. NO-synthase activity was investigated in the LV and aorta. L-NAME administration induced hypertension, left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), LV fibrosis, aortic thickening and diminution of NO-synthase activity in the LV and aorta. Reduction in blood pressure and regression of LVH were observed in all recovery groups, yet reduction in LV fibrosis and aortic thickening were not. NO-synthase activity was restored only in the L-arginine and spironolactone group. In our study, the reversion of hypertension and LVH was not dependent on the restoration of NO-synthase activity. Moreover, LV fibrosis and aortic remodelling seem to be more resistant to conditions resulting in regression of LVH. Preserved level of fibrosis in the initial period of LVH regression might result in loss of structural homogeneity and possible functional alterations of the LV.

  18. A novel hydrodynamic approach of drag-reducing polymers to improve left ventricular hypertrophy and aortic remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rats.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Xinlu; Wang, Xu; Hu, Feng; Zhou, Boda; Chen, Hai-Bin; Zha, Daogang; Liu, Yili; Guo, Yansong; Zheng, Lemin; Xiu, Jiancheng

    Drag-reducing polymers (DRPs), when added in minute concentrations, have been shown to decrease peripheral vascular resistance. In this study, the effect of DRPs on the hypertension-induced left ventricular hypertrophy and aortic remodeling was evaluated in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Male SHR and age-matched Wistar rats were divided into four groups and received intravenous injection of normal saline (NS) or DRPs. Body weight (BW), heart rate (HR) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were measured. Echocardiography was used to evaluate the changes in left ventricle (LV) function and global wall motion. The LV and aorta were stained by hematoxylin and eosin. Cell size of cardiomyocytes and aortic medial thickness were evaluated for each section. The expression of endothelin-1 (ET-1) of LV and aorta was examined by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry. There was no significant difference in the increase of SBP among SHR + NS, SHR + 10DRP and SHR + 20DRP groups. SHR + NS group had markedly smaller left ventricular end-systolic diameter and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter but bigger anterior and posterior systolic wall thicknesses, while there was no significant difference in fractional shortening and ejection fraction. The cross-sectional areas (CSAs) of cardiomyocytes and the medial thickness of the aorta in SHR + 10 (ppm) DRP and SHR + 20 (ppm) DRP groups were significantly reduced compared with SHR + NS group. The expression of ET-1 in SHR + 10DRP and SHR + 20DRP groups was significantly attenuated. These results suggest that chronic treatment with DRPs can protect against left ventricular hypertrophy and aortic remodeling. DRPs may offer a new approach to the treatment of left ventricular hypertrophy and aortic remodeling caused by hypertension.

  19. A novel hydrodynamic approach of drag-reducing polymers to improve left ventricular hypertrophy and aortic remodeling in spontaneously hypertensive rats

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Xinlu; Wang, Xu; Hu, Feng; Zhou, Boda; Chen, Hai-Bin; Zha, Daogang; Liu, Yili; Guo, Yansong; Zheng, Lemin; Xiu, Jiancheng

    2016-01-01

    Drag-reducing polymers (DRPs), when added in minute concentrations, have been shown to decrease peripheral vascular resistance. In this study, the effect of DRPs on the hypertension-induced left ventricular hypertrophy and aortic remodeling was evaluated in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Male SHR and age-matched Wistar rats were divided into four groups and received intravenous injection of normal saline (NS) or DRPs. Body weight (BW), heart rate (HR) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were measured. Echocardiography was used to evaluate the changes in left ventricle (LV) function and global wall motion. The LV and aorta were stained by hematoxylin and eosin. Cell size of cardiomyocytes and aortic medial thickness were evaluated for each section. The expression of endothelin-1 (ET-1) of LV and aorta was examined by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry. There was no significant difference in the increase of SBP among SHR + NS, SHR + 10DRP and SHR + 20DRP groups. SHR + NS group had markedly smaller left ventricular end-systolic diameter and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter but bigger anterior and posterior systolic wall thicknesses, while there was no significant difference in fractional shortening and ejection fraction. The cross-sectional areas (CSAs) of cardiomyocytes and the medial thickness of the aorta in SHR + 10 (ppm) DRP and SHR + 20 (ppm) DRP groups were significantly reduced compared with SHR + NS group. The expression of ET-1 in SHR + 10DRP and SHR + 20DRP groups was significantly attenuated. These results suggest that chronic treatment with DRPs can protect against left ventricular hypertrophy and aortic remodeling. DRPs may offer a new approach to the treatment of left ventricular hypertrophy and aortic remodeling caused by hypertension. PMID:28008249

  20. Correlation between ECG changes and early left ventricular remodeling in preadolescent footballers.

    PubMed

    Zdravkovic, M; Milovanovic, B; Hinic, S; Soldatovic, I; Durmic, T; Koracevic, G; Prijic, S; Markovic, O; Filipovic, B; Lovic, D

    2017-03-01

    The aim of this study was to assess the early electrocardiogram (ECG) changes induced by physical training in preadolescent elite footballers. This study included 94 preadolescent highly trained male footballers (FG) competing in Serbian Football League (minimum of 7 training hours/week) and 47 age-matched healthy male controls (less than 2 training hours/week) (CG). They were screened by ECG and echocardiography at a tertiary referral cardio center. Sokolow-Lyon index was used as a voltage electrocardiographic criterion for left ventricular hypertrophy diagnosis. Characteristic ECG intervals and voltage were compared and reference range was given for preadolescent footballers. Highly significant differences between FG and CG were registered in all ECG parameters: P-wave voltage (p < 0.001), S-wave (V1 or V2 lead) voltage (p < 0.001), R-wave (V5 and V6 lead) voltage (p < 0.001), ECG sum of S V 1-2  + R V 5-6 (p < 0.001), T-wave voltage (p < 0.001), QRS complex duration (p < 0.001), T-wave duration (p < 0.001), QTc interval duration (p < 0.001), and R/T ratio (p < 0.001). No differences were found in PQ interval duration between these two groups (p > 0.05). During 6-year follow-up period, there was no adverse cardiac event in these footballers. None of them expressed pathological ECG changes. Benign ECG changes are presented in the early stage of athlete's heart remodeling, but they are not related to pathological ECG changes and they should be regarded as ECG pattern of LV remodeling.

  1. Left Ventricular Structure and Risk of Cardiovascular Events: A Framingham Heart Study Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Study

    PubMed Central

    Tsao, Connie W; Gona, Philimon N; Salton, Carol J; Chuang, Michael L; Levy, Daniel; Manning, Warren J; O’Donnell, Christopher J

    2015-01-01

    Background Elevated left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and concentric left ventricular (LV) remodeling are related to adverse cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. The predictive utility of LV concentric remodeling and LV mass in the prediction of CVD events is not well characterized. Methods and Results Framingham Heart Study Offspring Cohort members without prevalent CVD (n=1715, 50% men, aged 65±9 years) underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance for LVMI and geometry (2002–2006) and were prospectively followed for incident CVD (myocardial infarction, coronary insufficiency, heart failure, stroke) or CVD death. Over 13 808 person-years of follow-up (median 8.4, range 0.0 to 10.5 years), 85 CVD events occurred. In multivariable-adjusted proportional hazards regression models, each 10-g/m2 increment in LVMI and each 0.1 unit in relative wall thickness was associated with 33% and 59% increased risk for CVD, respectively (P=0.004 and P=0.009, respectively). The association between LV mass/LV end-diastolic volume and incident CVD was borderline significant (P=0.053). Multivariable-adjusted risk reclassification models showed a modest improvement in CVD risk prediction with the incorporation of cardiovascular magnetic resonance LVMI and measures of LV concentricity (C-statistic 0.71 [95% CI 0.65 to 0.78] for the model with traditional risk factors only, improved to 0.74 [95% CI 0.68 to 0.80] for the risk factor model additionally including LVMI and relative wall thickness). Conclusions Among adults free of prevalent CVD in the community, greater LVMI and LV concentric hypertrophy are associated with a marked increase in adverse incident CVD events. The potential benefit of aggressive primary prevention to modify LV mass and geometry in these adults requires further investigation. PMID:26374295

  2. Left Ventricular Structure and Risk of Cardiovascular Events: A Framingham Heart Study Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Study.

    PubMed

    Tsao, Connie W; Gona, Philimon N; Salton, Carol J; Chuang, Michael L; Levy, Daniel; Manning, Warren J; O'Donnell, Christopher J

    2015-09-15

    Elevated left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and concentric left ventricular (LV) remodeling are related to adverse cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. The predictive utility of LV concentric remodeling and LV mass in the prediction of CVD events is not well characterized. Framingham Heart Study Offspring Cohort members without prevalent CVD (n=1715, 50% men, aged 65±9 years) underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance for LVMI and geometry (2002-2006) and were prospectively followed for incident CVD (myocardial infarction, coronary insufficiency, heart failure, stroke) or CVD death. Over 13 808 person-years of follow-up (median 8.4, range 0.0 to 10.5 years), 85 CVD events occurred. In multivariable-adjusted proportional hazards regression models, each 10-g/m(2) increment in LVMI and each 0.1 unit in relative wall thickness was associated with 33% and 59% increased risk for CVD, respectively (P=0.004 and P=0.009, respectively). The association between LV mass/LV end-diastolic volume and incident CVD was borderline significant (P=0.053). Multivariable-adjusted risk reclassification models showed a modest improvement in CVD risk prediction with the incorporation of cardiovascular magnetic resonance LVMI and measures of LV concentricity (C-statistic 0.71 [95% CI 0.65 to 0.78] for the model with traditional risk factors only, improved to 0.74 [95% CI 0.68 to 0.80] for the risk factor model additionally including LVMI and relative wall thickness). Among adults free of prevalent CVD in the community, greater LVMI and LV concentric hypertrophy are associated with a marked increase in adverse incident CVD events. The potential benefit of aggressive primary prevention to modify LV mass and geometry in these adults requires further investigation. © 2015 The Authors. Published on behalf of the American Heart Association, Inc., by Wiley Blackwell.

  3. The paradox of left ventricular assist device unloading and myocardial recovery in end-stage dilated cardiomyopathy: implications for heart failure in the elderly.

    PubMed

    Butler, Craig R; Jugdutt, Bodh I

    2012-09-01

    Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a common debilitating condition with limited therapeutic options besides heart transplantation or palliation. It is characterized by maladaptive remodeling of cardiomyocytes, extracellular collagen matrix (ECCM) and left ventricular (LV) geometry which contributes to further dysfunction. LV assist devices (LVADs) can reverse adverse remodeling in end-stage DCM. However, there is a disconnect between the benefits of prolonged unloading with LVAD at molecular and cellular levels and the low rate of bridge to recovery (BTR). Potential explanations for this paradox include insufficient reverse ECCM remodeling and/or excessive reverse cardiomyocyte remodeling with atrophy. LVAD therapy is associated with decreased collagen turnover and cross-linking and increased tissue angiotensin II (AngII), whereas LVAD combined with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition results in decreased tissue AngII and collagen cross-linking, normalizes LV end-diastolic pressure volume relationships and is associated with modestly higher rates of BTR. Much remains to be learned about ventricular reverse remodeling after LVAD. This can be facilitated through systematic collection and comparison of recovered and unrecovered myocardium. Importantly, vigilant monitoring for ventricular recovery among LVAD patients is needed, particularly in older patients receiving LVAD for destination therapy. In addition, prospective multicenter trials are needed to clarify the potential benefit of concomitant heart failure therapy with selective β2 agonism on ventricular recovery.

  4. Identification of new biophysical markers for pathological ventricular remodelling in tachycardia-induced dilated cardiomyopathy.

    PubMed

    Benitez-Amaro, Aleyda; Samouillan, Valerie; Jorge, Esther; Dandurand, Jany; Nasarre, Laura; de Gonzalo-Calvo, David; Bornachea, Olga; Amoros-Figueras, Gerard; Lacabanne, Colette; Vilades, David; Leta, Ruben; Carreras, Francesc; Gallardo, Alberto; Lerma, Enrique; Cinca, Juan; Guerra, Jose M; Llorente-Cortés, Vicenta

    2018-06-19

    Our aim was to identify biophysical biomarkers of ventricular remodelling in tachycardia-induced dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Our study includes healthy controls (N = 7) and DCM pigs (N = 10). Molecular analysis showed global myocardial metabolic abnormalities, some of them related to myocardial hibernation in failing hearts, supporting the translationality of our model to study cardiac remodelling in dilated cardiomyopathy. Histological analysis showed unorganized and agglomerated collagen accumulation in the dilated ventricles and a higher percentage of fibrosis in the right (RV) than in the left (LV) ventricle (P = .016). The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) 1st and 2nd indicators, which are markers of the myofiber/collagen ratio, were reduced in dilated hearts, with the 1st indicator reduced by 45% and 53% in the RV and LV, respectively, and the 2nd indicator reduced by 25% in the RV. The 3rd FTIR indicator, a marker of the carbohydrate/lipid ratio, was up-regulated in the right and left dilated ventricles but to a greater extent in the RV (2.60-fold vs 1.61-fold, P = .049). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed a depression of the freezable water melting point in DCM ventricles - indicating structural changes in the tissue architecture - and lower protein stability. Our results suggest that the 1st, 2nd and 3rd FTIR indicators are useful markers of cardiac remodelling. Moreover, the 2nd and 3rd FITR indicators, which are altered to a greater extent in the right ventricle, are associated with greater fibrosis. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Foundation for Cellular and Molecular Medicine.

  5. Dermal Filler Injection: A Novel Approach for Limiting Infarct Expansion

    PubMed Central

    Ryan, Liam P.; Matsuzaki, Kanji; Noma, Mio; Jackson, Benjamin M.; Eperjesi, Thomas J.; Plappert, Theodore J.; St. John-Sutton, Martin G.; Gorman, Joseph H.; Gorman, Robert C.

    2011-01-01

    Background Early infarct expansion after coronary occlusion compromises contractile function in perfused myocardial regions and promotes adverse long-term left ventricular (LV) remodeling. We hypothesized that injection of a tissue-expanding dermal filler material into a myocardial infarction (MI) would attenuate infarct expansion and limit LV remodeling. Methods Fifteen sheep were subjected to an anteroapical MI involving approximately 20% of the LV followed by the injection of 1.3 mL of a calcium hydroxyapatite–based dermal filler into the infarct. Real-time three-dimensional echocardiography was performed at baseline, 30 minutes after MI, and 15 minutes after injection to assess infarct expansion. Sixteen additional sheep were subjected to the same infarction and followed echocardiographically and hemodynamically for 4 weeks after MI to assess chronic remodeling. Eight animals had injection with dermal filler as described above immediately after MI, and 8 animals were injected with an equal amount of saline solution. Results All animals exhibited infarct expansion soon after coronary occlusion. The regional ejection fraction of the apex became negative after infarction, consistent with systolic dyskinesia. Injection of the dermal filler converted the apical wall motion from dyskinetic to akinetic and resulted immediately in significant decreases in global, regional, and segmental LV volumes. Chronically, relative to saline control, dermal filler injection significantly reduced LV end-systolic volume (62.2 ± 3.6 mL versus 44.5 ± 3.9 mL; p < 0.05) and improved global ejection fraction (0.295 ± 0.016 versus 0.373 ± 0.017; p < 0.05) at 4 weeks after infarction. Conclusions Injection of an acellular dermal filler into an MI immediately after coronary occlusion reduces early infarct expansion and limits chronic LV remodeling. PMID:19101288

  6. Left ventricular remodeling and change of systolic function after closure of patent ductus arteriosus in adults: device and surgical closure.

    PubMed

    Jeong, Young-Hoon; Yun, Tae-Jin; Song, Jong-Min; Park, Jung-Jun; Seo, Dong-Man; Koh, Jae-Kon; Lee, Se-Whan; Kim, Mi-Jeong; Kang, Duk-Hyun; Song, Jae-Kwan

    2007-09-01

    Left ventricular (LV) remodeling and predictors of LV systolic function late after closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in adults remain to be clearly demonstrated. In 45 patients with PDA, including 28 patients who received successful occlusion using the Amplatzer device (AD group) (AGA, Golden Valley, MN) and 17 patients who received surgical closure (OP group), echocardiography studies were performed before closure and 1 day (AD group) or within 7 days (OP group) after closure, and then were repeated at > or = 6 months (17 +/- 13 months). In both groups, LV ejection fraction (EF) and end-diastolic volume index were significantly decreased immediately after closure, whereas end-systolic volume index did not change. During the long-term follow-up period, end-systolic as well as end-diastolic volume indices decreased significantly in both groups and LV EF recovered compared to the immediate postclosure state. However, LV EF remained low compared to the preclosure state. Five patients (11.1%) including 3 patients in the AD group and 2 patients in the OP group showed persistent late LV systolic dysfunction (EF <50%). In stepwise, multiple logistic regression analysis, preclosure EF was the only independent predictor of late normal postclosure EF (odds ratio, 1.230; 95% CI, 1.054-1.434; P = .008). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that preclosure EF > or = 62% had a sensitivity of 72% and a specificity of 83% for predicting late normal LV EF after closure. Left ventricular EF remains low late after PDA closure compared with preclosure state in adults. Preclosure LV EF is the best index to predict late postclosure LV EF.

  7. Angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor LCZ696 attenuates cardiac remodeling and dysfunction after myocardial infarction by reducing cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy.

    PubMed

    von Lueder, Thomas G; Wang, Bing H; Kompa, Andrew R; Huang, Li; Webb, Randy; Jordaan, Pierre; Atar, Dan; Krum, Henry

    2015-01-01

    Angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors (ARNi), beyond blocking angiotensin II signaling, augment natriuretic peptides by inhibiting their breakdown by neprilysin. The myocardial effects of ARNi have been little studied until recently. We hypothesized that LCZ696 attenuates left ventricular (LV) remodeling after experimental myocardial infarction (MI), and that this may be contributed to by inhibition of hypertrophy and fibrosis in cardiac cells. One week after MI, adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to treatment for 4 weeks with LCZ696 (68 mg/kg body weight perorally; MI-ARNi, n=11) or vehicle (MI-vehicle, n=6). Five weeks after MI, MI-ARNi versus MI-vehicle demonstrated lower LV end-diastolic diameter (by echocardiography; 9.7±0.2 versus 10.5±0.3 mm), higher LV ejection fraction (60±2 versus 47±5%), diastolic wall strain (0.23±0.02 versus 0.13±0.02), and circular strain (-9.8±0.5 versus -7.3±0.5%; all P<0.05). LV pressure-volume loops confirmed improved LV function. Despite similar infarct size, MI-ARNi versus MI-vehicle had lower cardiac weights (P<0.01) and markedly reduced fibrosis in peri-infarct and remote myocardium. Angiotensin II-stimulated incorporation of 3[H]leucine in cardiac myocytes and 3[H]proline in cardiac fibroblast was used to evaluate hypertrophy and fibrosis, respectively. The neprilysin inhibitor component of LCZ696, LBQ657, inhibited hypertrophy but not fibrosis. The angiotensin receptor blocker component of LCZ696, valsartan inhibited both hypertrophy and fibrosis. Dual valsartan+LBQ augmented the inhibitory effects of valsartan and the highest doses completely abrogated angiotensin II-mediated effects. LCZ696 attenuated cardiac remodeling and dysfunction after MI. This may be contributed to by superior inhibition of LCZ696 on cardiac fibrosis and cardiac hypertrophy than either stand-alone neprilysin inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker. © 2014 American Heart Association, Inc.

  8. Orthogonal decomposition of left ventricular remodeling in myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Xingyu; Medrano-Gracia, Pau; Ambale-Venkatesh, Bharath; Bluemke, David A; Cowan, Brett R; Finn, J Paul; Kadish, Alan H; Lee, Daniel C; Lima, Joao A C; Young, Alistair A; Suinesiaputra, Avan

    2017-03-01

    Left ventricular size and shape are important for quantifying cardiac remodeling in response to cardiovascular disease. Geometric remodeling indices have been shown to have prognostic value in predicting adverse events in the clinical literature, but these often describe interrelated shape changes. We developed a novel method for deriving orthogonal remodeling components directly from any (moderately independent) set of clinical remodeling indices. Six clinical remodeling indices (end-diastolic volume index, sphericity, relative wall thickness, ejection fraction, apical conicity, and longitudinal shortening) were evaluated using cardiac magnetic resonance images of 300 patients with myocardial infarction, and 1991 asymptomatic subjects, obtained from the Cardiac Atlas Project. Partial least squares (PLS) regression of left ventricular shape models resulted in remodeling components that were optimally associated with each remodeling index. A Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization process, by which remodeling components were successively removed from the shape space in the order of shape variance explained, resulted in a set of orthonormal remodeling components. Remodeling scores could then be calculated that quantify the amount of each remodeling component present in each case. A one-factor PLS regression led to more decoupling between scores from the different remodeling components across the entire cohort, and zero correlation between clinical indices and subsequent scores. The PLS orthogonal remodeling components had similar power to describe differences between myocardial infarction patients and asymptomatic subjects as principal component analysis, but were better associated with well-understood clinical indices of cardiac remodeling. The data and analyses are available from www.cardiacatlas.org. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press.

  9. Orthogonal decomposition of left ventricular remodeling in myocardial infarction

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Xingyu; Medrano-Gracia, Pau; Ambale-Venkatesh, Bharath; Bluemke, David A.; Cowan, Brett R; Finn, J. Paul; Kadish, Alan H.; Lee, Daniel C.; Lima, Joao A. C.; Young, Alistair A.; Suinesiaputra, Avan

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Left ventricular size and shape are important for quantifying cardiac remodeling in response to cardiovascular disease. Geometric remodeling indices have been shown to have prognostic value in predicting adverse events in the clinical literature, but these often describe interrelated shape changes. We developed a novel method for deriving orthogonal remodeling components directly from any (moderately independent) set of clinical remodeling indices. Results: Six clinical remodeling indices (end-diastolic volume index, sphericity, relative wall thickness, ejection fraction, apical conicity, and longitudinal shortening) were evaluated using cardiac magnetic resonance images of 300 patients with myocardial infarction, and 1991 asymptomatic subjects, obtained from the Cardiac Atlas Project. Partial least squares (PLS) regression of left ventricular shape models resulted in remodeling components that were optimally associated with each remodeling index. A Gram–Schmidt orthogonalization process, by which remodeling components were successively removed from the shape space in the order of shape variance explained, resulted in a set of orthonormal remodeling components. Remodeling scores could then be calculated that quantify the amount of each remodeling component present in each case. A one-factor PLS regression led to more decoupling between scores from the different remodeling components across the entire cohort, and zero correlation between clinical indices and subsequent scores. Conclusions: The PLS orthogonal remodeling components had similar power to describe differences between myocardial infarction patients and asymptomatic subjects as principal component analysis, but were better associated with well-understood clinical indices of cardiac remodeling. The data and analyses are available from www.cardiacatlas.org. PMID:28327972

  10. Correlation of trabeculae and papillary muscles with clinical and cardiac characteristics and impact on CMR measures of LV anatomy and function.

    PubMed

    Chuang, Michael L; Gona, Philimon; Hautvast, Gilion L T F; Salton, Carol J; Blease, Susan J; Yeon, Susan B; Breeuwer, Marcel; O'Donnell, Christopher J; Manning, Warren J

    2012-11-01

    The goal of this study was to assess the relationship of left ventricular (LV) trabeculae and papillary muscles (TPM) with clinical characteristics in a community-based, free-living adult cohort and to determine the effect of TPM on quantitative measures of LV volume, mass, and ejection fraction (EF). Hypertrabeculation has been associated with adverse cardiovascular events, but the distribution and clinical correlates of the volume and mass of the TPM in a normal left ventricle have not been well characterized. Short-axis cine cardiac magnetic resonance images, obtained using a steady-state free precession sequence from 1,494 members of the Framingham Heart Study Offspring cohort, were analyzed with software that automatically segments TPM. Absolute TPM volume, TPM as a fraction of end-diastolic volume (EDV) (TPM/EDV), and TPM mass as a fraction of LV mass were determined in all offspring and in a referent group of offspring free of clinical cardiovascular disease and hypertension. In the referent group (mean age 61 ± 9 years; 262 men and 423 women), mean TPM was 23 ± 3% of LV EDV in both sexes (p = 0.9). TPM/EDV decreased with age (p < 0.02) but was not associated with body mass index. TPM mass as a fraction of LV mass was inversely correlated with age (p < 0.0001), body mass index (p < 0.018), and systolic blood pressure (p < 0.0001). Among all 1,494 participants (699 men), LV volumes decreased 23%, LV mass increased 28%, and EF increased by 7.5 EF units (p < 0.0001) when TPM were considered myocardial mass rather than part of the LV blood pool. Global cardiac magnetic resonance LV parameters were significantly affected by whether TPM was considered as part of the LV blood pool or as part of LV mass. Our cross-sectional data from a healthy referent group of adults free of clinical cardiovascular disease demonstrated that TPM/EDV decreases with increasing age in both sexes but is not related to hypertension or obesity. Copyright © 2012 American College of

  11. LV software support for supersonic flow analysis

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bell, William A.

    1991-01-01

    During 1991, the software developed allowed an operator to configure and checkout the TSI, Inc. laser velocimeter (LV) system prior to a run. This setup procedure established the operating conditions for the TSI MI-990 multichannel interface and the RMR-1989 rotating machinery resolver. In addition to initializing the instruments, the software package provides a means of specifying LV calibration constants, controlling the sampling process, and identifying the test parameters.

  12. Comparative Efficacy of Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) Inactivated Whole-Virus Vaccine and Canarypox Virus-Vectored Vaccine during Virulent FeLV Challenge and Immunosuppression.

    PubMed

    Patel, M; Carritt, K; Lane, J; Jayappa, H; Stahl, M; Bourgeois, M

    2015-07-01

    Four vaccines for feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are available in the United States. This study's purpose was to compare the efficacy of Nobivac feline 2-FeLV (an inactivated, adjuvanted whole-virus vaccine) and PureVax recombinant FeLV (a live, canarypox virus-vectored vaccine) following FeLV challenge. Cats were vaccinated at 9 and 12 weeks with Nobivac feline 2-FeLV (group A, n = 11) or PureVax recombinant FeLV (group B, n = 10). Group C (n = 11) comprised unvaccinated controls. At 3 months postvaccination, cats were immunosuppressed and challenged with FeLV-A/61E. The outcomes measured were persistent antigenemia at 12 weeks postchallenge (PC) and proviral DNA and viral RNA at 3 to 9 weeks PC. Persistent antigenemia was observed in 0 of 11 cats in group A, 5 of 10 cats in group B, and 10 of 11 cats in group C. Group A was significantly protected compared to those in groups B (P < 0.013) and C (P < 0.0001). No difference was found between groups B and C (P > 0.063). The preventable fraction was 100% for group A and 45% for group B. At 9 weeks PC, proviral DNA and viral RNA were detected 1 of 11 cats in group A, 6 of 10 cats in group B, and 9 of 11 cats in group C. Nucleic acid loads were significantly lower in group A than in group C (P < 0.01). Group A had significantly lower proviral DNA loads than group B at weeks 6 to 9 (P < 0.02). The viral RNA loads were significantly lower in group A than in group B at weeks 7 to 9 (P < 0.01). The results demonstrate that Nobivac feline 2-FeLV-vaccinated cats were fully protected against persistent antigenemia and had significantly smaller amounts of proviral DNA and plasma viral RNA loads than PureVax recombinant FeLV-vaccinated cats and unvaccinated controls. Copyright © 2015, Patel et al.

  13. LV software support for supersonic flow analysis

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bell, W. A.; Lepicovsky, J.

    1992-01-01

    The software for configuring an LV counter processor system has been developed using structured design. The LV system includes up to three counter processors and a rotary encoder. The software for configuring and testing the LV system has been developed, tested, and included in an overall software package for data acquisition, analysis, and reduction. Error handling routines respond to both operator and instrument errors which often arise in the course of measuring complex, high-speed flows. The use of networking capabilities greatly facilitates the software development process by allowing software development and testing from a remote site. In addition, high-speed transfers allow graphics files or commands to provide viewing of the data from a remote site. Further advances in data analysis require corresponding advances in procedures for statistical and time series analysis of nonuniformly sampled data.

  14. LV software support for supersonic flow analysis

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bell, William A.

    1992-01-01

    The software for configuring a Laser Velocimeter (LV) counter processor system was developed using structured design. The LV system includes up to three counter processors and a rotary encoder. The software for configuring and testing the LV system was developed, tested, and included in an overall software package for data acquisition, analysis, and reduction. Error handling routines respond to both operator and instrument errors which often arise in the course of measuring complex, high-speed flows. The use of networking capabilities greatly facilitates the software development process by allowing software development and testing from a remote site. In addition, high-speed transfers allow graphics files or commands to provide viewing of the data from a remote site. Further advances in data analysis require corresponding advances in procedures for statistical and time series analysis of nonuniformly sampled data.

  15. Athletic Cardiac Remodeling in US Professional Basketball Players.

    PubMed

    Engel, David J; Schwartz, Allan; Homma, Shunichi

    2016-04-01

    The incidence of sudden cardiac death is higher in US basketball players compared with other athlete groups. However, the recognition of the risk for sudden cardiac death among basketball players is challenging because little is known regarding athletic cardiac remodeling in these athletes or athletes of similarly increased size. To perform a comprehensive cardiac structural analysis of National Basketball Association (NBA) professional athletes. Echocardiographic observational study of NBA players on the active rosters for the 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 seasons was performed from December 16, 2013, to December 12, 2014. The policy of the NBA mandates annual preseason stress echocardiograms for each player. The NBA has sanctioned Columbia University Medical Center to conduct annual health and safety reviews of these echocardiograms. Data were analyzed from January to May 2015. Cardiac variables assessed included left ventricular (LV) size, mass, wall thickness, and hypertrophy patterns and function; left atrial volume; and aortic root diameter. All dimensions were biometrically scaled. Of the 526 athletes included in the study, 406 (77.2%) were African American and 107 (20.3%) were white, with a mean (SD) age of 25.7 (4.3) years. Mean (SD) athlete height was 200.2 (8.8) cm; mean body surface area, 2.38 (0.19) m2. Left ventricular size and mass in NBA athletes were proportional to body size, extending to the uppermost biometrics of the cohort. Left ventricular hypertrophy was present in 144 athletes (27.4%). African American athletes had increased LV wall thickness (unadjusted mean, 11.2 mm; 95% CI, 11.1-11.3 mm) and LV mass (unadjusted mean, 106.3 g/m2; 95% CI, 104.6-108.0 g/m2) compared with LV wall thickness (unadjusted mean, 10.5 mm; 95% CI, 10.3-10.7 mm; P < .001) and LV mass (unadjusted mean, 102.2 g/m2; 95% CI, 99.0-105.4 g/m2; P = .029) in white athletes. The maximal aortic root diameter in the cohort was 42 mm. Aortic root diameters reached a plateau

  16. Characterizing the spectrum of right ventricular remodelling in response to chronic training.

    PubMed

    Sitges, Marta; Merino, Beatriz; Butakoff, Constatine; de la Garza, Maria Sanz; Paré, Carles; Montserrat, Silvia; Vidal, Barbara; Azqueta, Manel; Sarquella, Georgia; Gutierrez, Josep Antoni; Canal, Ramon; Brugada, Josep; Bijnens, Bart H

    2017-03-01

    The significance and spectrum of reduced right ventricular (RV) deformation, reported in endurance athletes, is unclear. To comprehensively analyze the cardiac performance at rest of athletes, especially focusing on integrating RV size and deformation to unravel the underlying triggers of this ventricular remodelling. Hundred professional male athletes and 50 sedentary healthy males of similar age were prospectively studied. Conventional echocardiographic parameters of all four chambers were obtained, as well as 2D echo-derived strain (2DSE) in the left (LV) and in the RV free wall with separate additional analysis of the RV basal and apical segments. Left and right-sided dimensions were larger in athletes than in controls, but with a disproportionate RA enlargement. RV global strain was lower in sportsmen (-26.8 ± 2.8% vs -28.5 ± 3.4%, p < 0.001) due to a decrease in the basal segment (-22.8 ± 3.5% vs -25.8 ± 4.0%, p < 0.001) resulting in a marked gradient of deformation from the RV inlet towards the apex. By integrating size, deformation and stroke volume, we observed that the LV working conditions were similar in all sportsmen while a wider variability existed in the RV. Cardiac remodelling in athletes is more pronounced in the right heart cavities with specific regional differences within the right ventricle, but with a wide variability among individuals. The large inter-individual differences, as well as its acute and chronic relevance warrant further investigation.

  17. Diabetes mellitus is associated with adverse structural and functional cardiac remodelling in chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

    PubMed

    Walker, Andrew Mn; Patel, Peysh A; Rajwani, Adil; Groves, David; Denby, Christine; Kearney, Lorraine; Sapsford, Robert J; Witte, Klaus K; Kearney, Mark T; Cubbon, Richard M

    2016-09-01

    Diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of death and hospitalisation in patients with chronic heart failure. Better understanding of potential underlying mechanisms may aid the development of diabetes mellitus-specific chronic heart failure therapeutic strategies. Prospective observational cohort study of 628 patients with chronic heart failure associated with left ventricular systolic dysfunction receiving contemporary evidence-based therapy. Indices of cardiac structure and function, along with symptoms and biochemical parameters, were compared in patients with and without diabetes mellitus at study recruitment and 1 year later. Patients with diabetes mellitus (24.2%) experienced higher rates of all-cause [hazard ratio, 2.3 (95% confidence interval, 1.8-3.0)] and chronic heart failure-specific mortality and hospitalisation despite comparable pharmacological and device-based therapies. At study recruitment, patients with diabetes mellitus were more symptomatic, required greater diuretic doses and more frequently had radiologic evidence of pulmonary oedema, despite higher left ventricular ejection fraction. They also exhibited echocardiographic evidence of increased left ventricular wall thickness and pulmonary arterial pressure. Diabetes mellitus was associated with reduced indices of heart rate variability and increased heart rate turbulence. During follow-up, patients with diabetes mellitus experienced less beneficial left ventricular remodelling and greater deterioration in renal function. Diabetes mellitus is associated with features of adverse structural and functional cardiac remodelling in patients with chronic heart failure. © The Author(s) 2016.

  18. Left Atrial Remodeling and Atrioventricular Coupling in a Canine Model of Early Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction

    PubMed Central

    Zakeri, Rosita; Moulay, Gilles; Chai, Qiang; Ogut, Ozgur; Hussain, Saad; Takahama, Hiroyuki; Lu, Tong; Wang, Xiao-Li; Linke, Wolfgang A.; Lee, Hon-Chi; Redfield, Margaret M.

    2016-01-01

    Background Left atrial (LA) compliance and contractility influence left ventricular (LV) stroke volume. We hypothesized that diminished LA compliance and contractile function occur early during development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and impair overall cardiac performance. Method and Results Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, echocardiography, LV and LA pressure-volume studies, and tissue analyses were performed in a model of early HFpEF (elderly dogs, renal wrap-induced hypertension, exogenous aldosterone; n=9) and young control dogs (sham surgery; n=13). Early HFpEF was associated with LA enlargement, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and enhanced LA contractile function (median active emptying fraction 16% [95% CI 13–24] vs 12[10–14]%, p=0.008; end-systolic pressure-volume relationship slope 2.4[1.9–3.2]mmHg/mL HFpEF vs 1.5[1.2–2.2]mmHg/mL controls, p=0.01). However, atrioventricular coupling was impaired and the curvilinear LA end-reservoir pressure-volume relationship was shifted upward/leftward in HFpEF (LA stiffness constant, βLA, 0.16[0.11–0.18]mmHg/mL vs 0.06[0.04–0.10]mmHg/mL controls, p=0.002) indicating reduced LA compliance. Impaired atrioventricular coupling and lower LA compliance correlated with lower LV stroke volume. Total fibrosis and titin isoform composition were similar between groups, however titin was hyperphosphorylated in HFpEF and correlated with βLA. LA microvascular reactivity was diminished in HFpEF versus controls. LA microvascular density tended to be lower in HFpEF and inversely correlated with βLA. Conclusions In early-stage hypertensive HFpEF, LA cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, titin hyperphosphorylation and microvascular dysfunction occur in association with increased systolic and diastolic LA chamber stiffness, impaired atrioventricular coupling and decreased LV stroke volume. These data indicate that maladaptive LA remodeling occurs early during HFpEF development, supporting a concept of global

  19. The NRF2 activator DH404 attenuates adverse ventricular remodeling post-myocardial infarction by modifying redox signalling.

    PubMed

    Bubb, Kristen J; Kok, Cindy; Tang, Owen; Rasko, Nathalie B; Birgisdottir, Asa B; Hansen, Thomas; Ritchie, Rebecca; Bhindi, Ravinay; Reisman, Scott A; Meyer, Colin; Ward, Keith; Karimi Galougahi, Keyvan; Figtree, Gemma A

    2017-07-01

    The novel synthetic triterpenoid, bardoxolone methyl, has the ability to upregulate cytoprotective proteins via induction of the nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. This makes it a promising therapeutic agent in disease states characterized by dysregulated oxidative signalling. We have examined the effect of a Nrf2 activator, dihydro-CDDO-trifluoroethyl amide (DH404), a derivative of bardoxolone methyl, on post-infarct cardiac remodeling in rats. DH404, administered from day 2 post myocardial infarction (MI: 30min transient ischemia followed by reperfusion) resulted in almost complete protection against adverse ventricular remodeling as assessed at day 28 (left ventricular end-systolic area: sham 0.14±0.01cm 2 , MI vehicle 0.29±0.04cm 2 vs. MI DH404 0.18±0.02cm 2 , P<0.05); infarct size (21.3±3.4% MI vehicle vs. 10.9±2.3% MI DH404, P<0.05) with associated benefits on systolic function (fractional shortening: sham 71.9±2.6%, MI vehicle 36.2±1.9% vs. MI DH404 58.6±4.0%, P<0.05). These structural and functional benefits were associated with lower myocardial expression of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP, P<0.01 vs. MI vehicle), and decreased fibronectin (P<0.01 vs. MI vehicle) in DH404-treated MI rats at 28 days. MI increased glutathionylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in vitro - a molecular switch that uncouples the enzyme, increasing superoxide production and decreasing nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. MI-induced eNOS glutathionylation was substantially ameliorated by DH404. An associated increase in glutaredoxin 1 (Grx1) co-immunoprecipitation with eNOS without a change in expression was mechanistically intriguing. Indeed, in parallel in vitro experiments, silencing of Grx1 abolished the protective effect of DH404 against Angiotensin II-induced eNOS uncoupling. The bardoxolone derivative DH404 significantly attenuated cardiac remodeling post MI, at least in part, by re-coupling of eNOS and increasing the functional

  20. L-arginine fails to prevent ventricular remodeling and heart failure in the spontaneously hypertensive rat.

    PubMed

    Brooks, Wesley W; Conrad, Chester H; Robinson, Kathleen G; Colucci, Wilson S; Bing, Oscar H L

    2009-02-01

    The effects of long-term oral administration of L-arginine, a substrate for nitric oxide (NO) production, on left ventricular (LV) remodeling, myocardial function and the prevention of heart failure (HF) was compared to the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor captopril in a rat model of hypertensive HF (aged spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR)). SHRs and age-matched normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats were assigned to either no treatment, treatment with L-arginine (7.5 g/l in drinking water) or captopril (1 g/l in drinking water) beginning at 14 months of age, a time when SHRs exhibit stable compensated hypertrophy with no hemodynamic impairment; animals were studied at 23 months of age or at the time of HF. In untreated SHR, relative to WKY, there was significant LV hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, and isolated LV muscle performance and response to isoproterenol (ISO) were depressed; and, 7 of 10 SHRs developed HF. Captopril administration to six SHRs attenuated hypertrophy and prevented impaired inotropic responsiveness to ISO, contractile dysfunction, fibrosis, increased passive stiffness, and HF. In contrast, L-arginine administration to SHR increased LV hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis while cardiac performance was depressed; and 7 of 9 SHRs developed HF. In WKY, L-arginine treatment but not captopril resulted in increased LV weight and the contractile response to ISO was blunted. Neither L-arginine nor captopril treatment of WKY changed fibrosis and HF did not occur. These data demonstrate that in contrast to captopril, long-term treatment with L-arginine exacerbates age-related cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, and did not prevent contractile dysfunction or the development of HF in aging SHR.

  1. Impact of Atrial Fibrillation Ablation on Left Ventricular Filling Pressure and Left Atrial Remodeling

    PubMed Central

    dos Santos, Simone Nascimento; Henz, Benhur Davi; Zanatta, André Rodrigues; Barreto, José Roberto; Loureiro, Kelly Bianca; Novakoski, Clarissa; dos Santos, Marcus Vinícius Nascimento; Giuseppin, Fabio F.; Oliveira, Edna Maria; Leite, Luiz Roberto

    2014-01-01

    Background Left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction is associated with new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF), and the estimation of elevated LV filling pressures by E/e' ratio is related to worse outcomes in patients with AF. However, it is unknown if restoring sinus rhythm reverses this process. Objective To evaluate the impact of AF ablation on estimated LV filling pressure. Methods A total of 141 patients underwent radiofrequency (RF) ablation to treat drug-refractory AF. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed 30 days before and 12 months after ablation. LV functional parameters, left atrial volume index (LAVind), and transmitral pulsed and mitral annulus tissue Doppler (e' and E/e') were assessed. Paroxysmal AF was present in 18 patients, persistent AF was present in 102 patients, and long-standing persistent AF in 21 patients. Follow-up included electrocardiographic examination and 24-h Holter monitoring at 3, 6, and 12 months after ablation. Results One hundred seventeen patients (82.9%) were free of AF during the follow-up (average, 18 ± 5 months). LAVind reduced in the successful group (30.2 mL/m2 ± 10.6 mL/m2 to 22.6 mL/m2 ± 1.1 mL/m2, p < 0.001) compared to the non-successful group (37.7 mL/m2 ± 14.3 mL/m2 to 37.5 mL/m2 ± 14.5 mL/m2, p = ns). Improvement of LV filling pressure assessed by a reduction in the E/e' ratio was observed only after successful ablation (11.5 ± 4.5 vs. 7.1 ± 3.7, p < 0.001) but not in patients with recurrent AF (12.7 ± 4.4 vs. 12 ± 3.3, p = ns). The success rate was lower in the long-standing persistent AF patient group (57% vs. 87%, p = 0.001). Conclusion Successful AF ablation is associated with LA reverse remodeling and an improvement in LV filling pressure. PMID:25590928

  2. Targeted Imaging of the Spatial and Temporal Variation of Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity in Porcine Model of Post-Infarct Remodeling: Relationship to Myocardial Dysfunction

    PubMed Central

    Sahul, Zakir H.; Mukherjee, Rupak; Song, James; McAteer, Jarod; Stroud, Robert E.; Dione, Donald P.; Staib, Lawrence; Papademetris, Xenophon; Dobrucki, Lawrence W.; Duncan, James S.; Spinale, Francis G.; Sinusas, Albert J.

    2011-01-01

    Background Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are known to modulate left ventricular (LV) remodeling after a myocardial infarction (MI). However, the temporal and spatial variation of MMP activation and their relationship to mechanical dysfunction post MI remains undefined. Methods and Results MI was surgically induced in pigs (n=23) and cine MR and dual isotope hybrid SPECT/CT imaging obtained using thallium-201 (201Tl) and a technetium-99m labeled MMP targeted tracer (99mTc-RP805) at 1, 2 and 4 weeks post MI along with controls (n=5). Regional myocardial strain was computed from MR images and related to MMP zymography and ex vivo myocardial 99mTc-RP805 retention. MMP activation as assessed by in vivo and ex vivo 99mTc-RP805 imaging/retention studies was increased nearly 5-fold within the infarct region at 1 week post-MI and remained elevated up to 1 month post-MI. The post-MI change in LV end-diastolic volumes was correlated with MMP activity (y=31.34e0.48x, p=0.04). MMP activity was increased within the border and remote regions early post-MI, but declined over 1 month. There was a high concordance between regional 99mTc-RP805 uptake and ex vivo MMP-2 activity. Conclusions A novel, multimodality non-invasive hybrid SPECT/CT imaging approach was validated and applied for in vivo evaluation of MMP activation in combination with cine MR analysis of LV deformation. Increased 99mTc-RP805 retention was seen throughout the heart early post-MI and was not purely a reciprocal of 201Tl perfusion. 99mTc-RP805 SPECT/CT imaging may provide unique information regarding regional myocardial MMP activation and predict late post-MI LV remodeling. PMID:21505092

  3. Small interfering RNA therapy against carbohydrate sulfotransferase 15 inhibits cardiac remodeling in rats with dilated cardiomyopathy.

    PubMed

    Watanabe, Kenichi; Arumugam, Somasundaram; Sreedhar, Remya; Thandavarayan, Rajarajan A; Nakamura, Takashi; Nakamura, Masahiko; Harima, Meilei; Yoneyama, Hiroyuki; Suzuki, Kenji

    2015-07-01

    Carbohydrate sulfotransferase 15 (CHST15) is a sulfotransferase responsible for biosynthesis of chondroitin sulfate E (CS-E), which plays important roles in numerous biological events such as biosynthesis of proinflammatory cytokines. However, the effects of CHST15 siRNA in rats with chronic heart failure (CHF) after experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) have not yet been investigated. CHF was elicited in Lewis rats by immunization with cardiac myosin, and after immunization, the rats were divided into two groups and treated with either CHST15 siRNA (2μg/week) or vehicle. Age matched normal rats without immunizations were also included in this study. After 7weeks of treatment, we investigated the effects of CHST15 siRNA on cardiac function, proinflammatory cytokines, and cardiac remodeling in EAM rats. Myocardial functional parameters measured by hemodynamic and echocardiographic studies were significantly improved by CHST15 siRNA treatment in rats with CHF compared with that of vehicle-treated CHF rats. CHST15 siRNA significantly reduced cardiac fibrosis, and hypertrophy and its marker molecules (left ventricular (LV) mRNA expressions of transforming growth factor beta1, collagens I and III, and atrial natriuretic peptide) compared with vehicle-treated CHF rats. CHF-induced increased myocardial mRNA expressions of proinflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β], monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and -9), and CHST15 were also suppressed by the treatment with CHST15 siRNA. Western blotting study has confirmed the results obtained from mRNA analysis as CHST15 siRNA treated rats expressed reduced levels of inflammatory and cardiac remodeling marker proteins. Our results demonstrate for the first time, that CHST15 siRNA treatment significantly improved LV function and ameliorated the progression of cardiac remodeling in rats with CHF after EAM. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Studies on the synthesis of isotopes of superheavy element Lv (Z = 116)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Santhosh, K. P.; Safoora, V.

    2017-11-01

    The probable projectile-target combinations for the synthesis of superheavy nucleus 296Lv found in the cold valley of 296Lv have been identified by studying the interaction barrier of the colliding nuclei, probability of compound nucleus formation, P_{CN}, and survival probability W_{sur}. At energies near and above the Coulomb barrier, the capture, fusion and evaporation residue (ER) cross sections for the probable combinations for the hot and cold fusion reactions are systematically investigated. By considering intensities of the projectile beams, availabilities of the targets and half lives of the colliding nuclei, the combination 48Ca+248Cm is found to be the most probable projectile-target pair for the synthesis of 296Lv. The calculated maximum value of 2n, 3n, 4n and 5n channel cross section for the reaction 48Ca+248Cm are 0.599 pb, 5.957 pb, 4.805 pb, and 0.065 pb, respectively. Moreover, the production cross sections for the synthesis of isotopes 291-295,298Lv using 48Ca projectile on 243-247,250Cm targets are calculated. Among these reactions, the reactions 48Ca+247Cm → 295Lv and 48Ca+250Cm → 298Lv have maximum production cross section in 3n (10.697 pb) and 4n (12.006 pb) channel, respectively. Our studies on the SHE Lv using the combinations 48Ca+245Cm → 293Lv and 48Ca+248Cm → 296Lv are compared with available experimental data and with other theoretical studies. Our studies are in agreement with experimental data and we hope that these studies will be a guide for the future experiments to synthesize the isotopes of Lv.

  5. Paeoniflorin improves cardiac function and decreases adverse postinfarction left ventricular remodeling in a rat model of acute myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Chen, Hengwen; Dong, Yan; He, Xuanhui; Li, Jun; Wang, Jie

    2018-01-01

    decreased adverse left ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction in rat models. The potential mechanism could be that PF decreased and inhibited BNP, TNF-α and IL-6, increased IL-10 and further inhibited the expression of Caspase-3 and Caspase-9, thus promoting ventricular remodeling.

  6. Nebivolol prevents remodeling in a rat myocardial infarction model: an echocardiographic study.

    PubMed

    Mercanoğlu, Güldem Olguner; Pamukçu, Burak; Safran, Nurhas; Mercanoğlu, Fehmi; Fici, Francesco; Güngör, Mehmet

    2010-02-01

    Ventricular remodeling (VR) which develops after myocardial infarction (MI) plays an important role in progressive left ventricular dysfunction. We aimed to investigate the role of nebivolol treatment on VR after a MI in a rat ischemia-reperfusion model. Rats were divided into 3 groups of 12 each: sham operated (sham-control), MI-induced (MI-control) and nebivolol treated (MI-nebivolol). Left ventricular (LV) diameters, volumes, and diastolic filling parameters were evaluated by echocardiography. On the 28th day, after recording the systemic and LV pressures and determining the plasma nitric oxide (NO) and peroxynitrite (ONOO-) levels , animals were sacrificed and heart, body and LV weights (HW, BW, LVW) were measured and infarct sizes were determined. Results were evaluated statistically by ANOVA for repeated measurements 3x3 factorial design with post-hoc Bonferroni test. After MI, while VR (an increase in LV diameters and volumes associated with a decrease in EF, FS and posterior wall thickness change (LWPc) was significant in MI-control rats (p<0.05 for; all comparisons) these changes were significantly less in MI-nebivolol group (p=0.08 and p=0.06 for EF and FS respectively). LV end diastolic pressure (LVEDP) was lower (p<0.005) and Delta+/- dp/dt's (p<0.05) were higher in MI-nebivolol group compared to MI-control animals. Although infarct sizes were similar in MI-induced groups (p=0.79); LVW/HW and HW/BW's were significantly greater in the MI-control group compared to sham-control (p<0.01 for all comparisons), these changes were not statistically significant in MI-nebivolol group. The increase in plasma NO and ONOO- levels were also prevented with nebivolol. Nebivolol therapy reduced the effects of VR in rats after MI. These beneficial effects were not related to its heart rate and blood pressure reducing effects. Nitric oxide regulatory action of this compound may contribute these beneficial effects on VR developed after MI.

  7. Gallic acid attenuates hypertension, cardiac remodeling, and fibrosis in mice with NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester-induced hypertension via regulation of histone deacetylase 1 or histone deacetylase 2.

    PubMed

    Jin, Li; Lin, Ming Quan; Piao, Zhe Hao; Cho, Jae Yeong; Kim, Gwi Ran; Choi, Sin Young; Ryu, Yuhee; Sun, Simei; Kee, Hae Jin; Jeong, Myung Ho

    2017-07-01

    Gallic acid, a natural chemical found in plants, has been reported to show antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory effects. We investigated the efficacy of a short-term or long-term treatment with gallic acid in N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)-induced hypertensive mice and the underlying regulatory mechanism. Hypertension was sufficiently induced after 2 weeks of L-NAME administration. Cardiac remodeling was assessed by echocardiography. Hypertrophic markers, transcription factors, and fibrosis-related gene expression were evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Gallic acid effectively lowered SBP, regardless of the administration route (intraperitoneal or oral). L-NAME increased the left ventricular (LV) thickness without an increase in the total heart weight. Weekly echocardiography demonstrated that gallic acid significantly reduced LV posterior wall and septum thickness in chronic L-NAME mice from 3 to 7 weeks. The administration of gallic acid to mice showed a dual preventive and therapeutic effect on the L-NAME-induced LV remodeling. The effect was associated with the suppression of the gene expression of hypertrophy markers and the GATA-binding factor 6 (GATA6) transcription factor. Short-term or long-term treatment with gallic acid attenuated cardiac fibrosis and reduced the expression of histone deacetylase 1 and 2 in H9c2 cells and in rat primary cardiac fibroblasts, as well as in vivo. Small interfering RNA knockdown confirmed the association of these enzymes with L-NAME-induced cardiac remodeling and fibrosis. These results suggested that gallic acid may be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases with hypertension and cardiac fibrosis.

  8. Hypertension Is a Conditional Factor for the Development of Cardiac Hypertrophy in Type 2 Diabetic Mice

    PubMed Central

    Brouwers, Olaf; Janssen, Ben J. A.; Derks, Wouter J. A.; Brouns, Agnieszka E.; Munts, Chantal; Schalkwijk, Casper G.; van der Vusse, Ger J.; van Nieuwenhoven, Frans A.

    2014-01-01

    Background Type 2 diabetes is frequently associated with co-morbidities, including hypertension. Here we investigated if hypertension is a critical factor in myocardial remodeling and the development of cardiac dysfunction in type 2 diabetic db/db mice. Methods Thereto, 14-wks-old male db/db mice and non-diabetic db/+ mice received vehicle or angiotensin II (AngII) for 4 wks to induce mild hypertension (n = 9–10 per group). Left ventricular (LV) function was assessed by serial echocardiography and during a dobutamine stress test. LV tissue was subjected to molecular and (immuno)histochemical analysis to assess effects on hypertrophy, fibrosis and inflammation. Results Vehicle-treated diabetic mice neither displayed marked myocardial structural remodeling nor cardiac dysfunction. AngII-treatment did not affect body weight and fasting glucose levels, and induced a comparable increase in blood pressure in diabetic and control mice. Nonetheless, AngII-induced LV hypertrophy was significantly more pronounced in diabetic than in control mice as assessed by LV mass (increase +51% and +34%, respectively, p<0.01) and cardiomyocyte size (+53% and +31%, p<0.001). This was associated with enhanced LV mRNA expression of markers of hypertrophy and fibrosis and reduced activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), while accumulation of Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs) and the expression levels of markers of inflammation were not altered. Moreover, AngII-treatment reduced LV fractional shortening and contractility in diabetic mice, but not in control mice. Conclusions Collectively, the present findings indicate that type 2 diabetes in its early stage is not yet associated with adverse cardiac structural changes, but already renders the heart more susceptible to hypertension-induced hypertrophic remodeling. PMID:24416343

  9. Cardiac fibroblast GSK-3β regulates ventricular remodeling and dysfunction in ischemic heart

    PubMed Central

    Lal, Hind; Ahmad, Firdos; Zhou, Jibin; Yu, Justine E.; Vagnozzi, Ronald J.; Guo, Yuanjun; Yu, Daohai; Tsai, Emily J.; Woodgett, James; Gao, Erhe; Force, Thomas

    2014-01-01

    Background Myocardial infarction-induced remodeling includes chamber dilatation, contractile dysfunction, and fibrosis. Of these, fibrosis is the least understood. Following MI, activated cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) deposit extracellular matrix. Current therapies to prevent fibrosis are inadequate and new molecular targets are needed. Methods and Results Herein we report that GSK-3β is phosphorylated (inhibited) in fibrotic tissues from ischemic human and mouse heart. Using two fibroblast-specific GSK-3β knockout mouse models, we show that deletion of GSK-3β in CFs leads to fibrogenesis, left ventricular dysfunction and excessive scarring in the ischemic heart. Deletion of GSK-3β induces a pro-fibrotic myofibroblast phenotype in isolated CFs, in post-MI hearts, and in MEFs deleted for GSK-3β. Mechanistically, GSK-3β inhibits pro-fibrotic TGF-β1-SMAD-3 signaling via interactions with SMAD-3. Moreover, deletion of GSK-3β resulted in the suppression of SMAD-3 transcriptional activity. This pathway is central to the pathology since a small molecule inhibitor of SMAD-3 largely prevented fibrosis and limited LV remodeling. Conclusion These studies support targeting GSK-3β in myocardial fibrotic disorders and establish critical roles of CFs in remodeling and ventricular dysfunction. PMID:24899689

  10. Detection of Antibodies to the Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) Transmembrane Protein p15E: an Alternative Approach for Serological FeLV Detection Based on Antibodies to p15E

    PubMed Central

    Boenzli, Eva; Hadorn, Maik; Hartnack, Sonja; Huder, Jon; Hofmann-Lehmann, Regina

    2014-01-01

    The aim of this report was to investigate whether the diagnosis of feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection by serology might be feasible and useful. Among the various viral proteins, the FeLV env-gene product (SU) and the envelope transmembrane protein p15E were considered promising candidates for the serological diagnosis of FeLV infection. Thus, we evaluated p15E and three other FeLV antigens, namely, a recombinant env-gene product, whole FeLV, and a short peptide from the FeLV transmembrane protein, for their potential to detect FeLV infection. To evaluate possible exposure of cats to FeLV, we tested serum and plasma samples from experimentally and naturally infected and vaccinated cats for the presence of antibodies to these antigens by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). The serological results were compared with the p27 and proviral real-time PCR results. We found that p15E displayed a diagnostic sensitivity of 95.7% and a specificity of 100% in experimentally infected cats. In naturally infected cats, p15E showed a diagnostic sensitivity of 77.1% and a specificity of 85.6%. Vaccinated cats displayed minimal antibody levels to p15E, suggesting that anti-p15E antibodies indicate infection rather than vaccination. The other antigens turned out to be too unspecific. The lower specificity in cats exposed to FeLV under field conditions may be explained by the fact that some cats become infected and seroconvert in the absence of detectable viral nucleic acids in plasma. We conclude that p15E serology may become a valuable tool for diagnosing FeLV infection; in some cases, it may replace PCR. PMID:24696026

  11. Longstanding Hyperthyroidism Is Associated with Normal or Enhanced Intrinsic Cardiomyocyte Function despite Decline in Global Cardiac Function

    PubMed Central

    Redetzke, Rebecca A.; Gerdes, A. Martin

    2012-01-01

    Thyroid hormones (THs) play a pivotal role in cardiac homeostasis. TH imbalances alter cardiac performance and ultimately cause cardiac dysfunction. Although short-term hyperthyroidism typically leads to heightened left ventricular (LV) contractility and improved hemodynamic parameters, chronic hyperthyroidism is associated with deleterious cardiac consequences including increased risk of arrhythmia, impaired cardiac reserve and exercise capacity, myocardial remodeling, and occasionally heart failure. To evaluate the long-term consequences of chronic hyperthyroidism on LV remodeling and function, we examined LV isolated myocyte function, chamber function, and whole tissue remodeling in a hamster model. Three-month-old F1b hamsters were randomized to control or 10 months TH treatment (0.1% grade I desiccated TH). LV chamber remodeling and function was assessed by echocardiography at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 months of treatment. After 10 months, terminal cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography and LV hemodynamics. Hyperthyroid hamsters exhibited significant cardiac hypertrophy and deleterious cardiac remodeling characterized by myocyte lengthening, chamber dilatation, decreased relative wall thickness, increased wall stress, and increased LV interstitial fibrotic deposition. Importantly, hyperthyroid hamsters demonstrated significant LV systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Despite the aforementioned remodeling and global cardiac decline, individual isolated cardiac myocytes from chronically hyperthyroid hamsters had enhanced function when compared with myocytes from untreated age-matched controls. Thus, it appears that long-term hyperthyroidism may impair global LV function, at least in part by increasing interstitial ventricular fibrosis, in spite of normal or enhanced intrinsic cardiomyocyte function. PMID:23056390

  12. Inferring microbial interaction networks from metagenomic data using SgLV-EKF algorithm.

    PubMed

    Alshawaqfeh, Mustafa; Serpedin, Erchin; Younes, Ahmad Bani

    2017-03-27

    Inferring the microbial interaction networks (MINs) and modeling their dynamics are critical in understanding the mechanisms of the bacterial ecosystem and designing antibiotic and/or probiotic therapies. Recently, several approaches were proposed to infer MINs using the generalized Lotka-Volterra (gLV) model. Main drawbacks of these models include the fact that these models only consider the measurement noise without taking into consideration the uncertainties in the underlying dynamics. Furthermore, inferring the MIN is characterized by the limited number of observations and nonlinearity in the regulatory mechanisms. Therefore, novel estimation techniques are needed to address these challenges. This work proposes SgLV-EKF: a stochastic gLV model that adopts the extended Kalman filter (EKF) algorithm to model the MIN dynamics. In particular, SgLV-EKF employs a stochastic modeling of the MIN by adding a noise term to the dynamical model to compensate for modeling uncertainties. This stochastic modeling is more realistic than the conventional gLV model which assumes that the MIN dynamics are perfectly governed by the gLV equations. After specifying the stochastic model structure, we propose the EKF to estimate the MIN. SgLV-EKF was compared with two similarity-based algorithms, one algorithm from the integral-based family and two regression-based algorithms, in terms of the achieved performance on two synthetic data-sets and two real data-sets. The first data-set models the randomness in measurement data, whereas, the second data-set incorporates uncertainties in the underlying dynamics. The real data-sets are provided by a recent study pertaining to an antibiotic-mediated Clostridium difficile infection. The experimental results demonstrate that SgLV-EKF outperforms the alternative methods in terms of robustness to measurement noise, modeling errors, and tracking the dynamics of the MIN. Performance analysis demonstrates that the proposed SgLV-EKF algorithm

  13. Plasma bilirubin values on admission and ventricular remodeling after a first anterior ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Miranda, Berta; Barrabés, José A; Figueras, Jaume; Pineda, Victor; Rodríguez-Palomares, José; Lidón, Rosa-Maria; Sambola, Antonia; Bañeras, Jordi; Otaegui, Imanol; García-Dorado, David

    2016-01-01

    Bilirubin may elicit cardiovascular protection and heme oxygenase-1 overexpression attenuated post-infarction ventricular remodeling in experimental animals, but the association between bilirubin levels and post-infarction remodeling is unknown. In 145 patients with a first anterior ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI), we assessed whether plasma bilirubin on admission predicted adverse remodeling (left ventricular end-diastolic volume [LVEDV] increase ≥20% between discharge and 6 months, estimated by magnetic resonance imaging). Patients' baseline characteristics and management were comparable among bilirubin tertiles. LVEDV increased at 6 months (P < 0.001) with respect to the initial exam, but the magnitude of this increase was similar across increasing bilirubin tertiles (10.8 [30.2], 10.1 [22.9], and 12.7 [24.3]%, P = 0.500). Median (25-75 percentile) bilirubin values in patients with and without adverse remodeling were 0.75 (0.60-0.93) and 0.73 (0.60-0.92) mg/dL (P = 0.693). Absence of final TIMI flow grade 3 (odds ratio 3.92, 95% CI 1.12-13.66) and a history of hypertension (2.04, 0.93-4.50), but not admission bilirubin, were independently associated with adverse remodeling. Bilirubin also did not predict the increase in ejection fraction at 6 months. Admission bilirubin values are not related to LVEDV or ejection fraction progression after a first anterior STEMI and do not predict adverse ventricular remodeling. Key messages Bilirubin levels are inversely related to cardiovascular disease, and overexpression of heme oxygenase-1 (the enzyme that determines bilirubin production) has prevented post-infarction ventricular remodeling in experimental animals, but the association between bilirubin levels and the progression of ventricular volumes and function in patients with acute myocardial infarction remained unexplored. In this cohort of patients with a first acute anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

  14. Relationship between mitral annulus function and mitral regurgitation severity and left atrial remodelling in patients with primary mitral regurgitation.

    PubMed

    Mihaila, Sorina; Muraru, Denisa; Miglioranza, Marcelo Haertel; Piasentini, Eleonora; Aruta, Patrizia; Cucchini, Umberto; Iliceto, Sabino; Vinereanu, Dragos; Badano, Luigi P

    2016-08-01

    To explore the relationship between the mitral annular (MA) remodelling and dysfunction, mitral regurgitation (MR) severity, left ventricular (LV) and atrial (LA) size and function in patients with organic MR (OMR). A total of 52 patients (57 ± 15 years, 31 men) with mild to severe OMR and 52 controls underwent 3D transthoracic echocardiography acquisitions of the mitral valve (MV), LA, and LV. MA geometry and dynamics, LV and LA volumes, LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and emptying fractions (LAEF) were assessed using dedicated software packages. LA and LV myocardial deformations were assessed using 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography. OMR patients presented larger and more spherical MA than controls during the entire systole (P < 0.001). Although the MA non-planarity at early-systole was similar between OMR and controls (157 ± 13° vs. 153 ± 12°, P = NS), the MA became flatter from mid- to end-systole (153 ± 12 vs. 146 ± 10° and 157 ± 12 vs. 147 ± 8°, P < 0.01) in OMR. MA area fractional change was lower in patients with OMR (22 ± 5% vs. 28 ± 5%, P < 0.001), and correlated with the MR orifice and volume (r = -0.52 and r = -0.55). MA fractional area change correlated with LA minimum and maximum volumes (r = 0.77 and r = 0.70), total and active LAEF (r = 0.72 and r = 0.76), and LA negative strain and strain rate (r = 0.52 and r = 0.57), but not with the LVEF or LV global longitudinal strain. In a multivariate regression model using LAEF and LVEF, solely active LAEF correlated with the MA fractional area change (β = 0.51, P = 0.005). In patients with OMR, MA reduced function correlates with the MR severity and the LA size and function, but not with the LV function. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2016. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  15. Vascular remodeling and mineralocorticoids.

    PubMed

    Weber, K T; Sun, Y; Campbell, S E; Slight, S H; Ganjam, V K

    1995-01-01

    Circulating mineralocorticoid hormones are so named because of their important homeostatic properties that regulate salt and water balance via their action on epithelial cells. A broader range of functions in nonclassic target cellular sites has been proposed for these steroids and includes their contribution to wound healing following injury. A chronic, inappropriate (relative to intravascular volume and dietary sodium intake) elevation of these circulating hormones evokes a wound healing response in the absence of tissue injury--a wound healing response gone awry. The adverse remodeling of vascularized tissues seen in association with chronic mineralocorticoid excess is the focus of this review.

  16. Incidence and predictors of left ventricular remodeling among elderly Asian women: a community-based cohort study.

    PubMed

    Wu, Jing; Wu, Caiqin; Fan, Wenjing; Zhou, Jie; Xu, Ling

    2017-01-14

    Left ventricular (LV) remodeling is closely linked to the progression of heart failure. There are limited data on the epidemiology of new onset LV remodeling among elderly women, which requires further investigation. We examined data from a community-based cohort of women aged > 65 years, who had received > 2 echocardiography scans from 2009 to 2014. Exclusion criteria for patients included prior echocardiographic evidence of left ventricular enlargement (LVE) or hypertrophy (LVH). LVE was defined as the index of left ventricular internal diameter at end-diastole to height, and LVH was defined as the left ventricular mass and thickness index which indicate hypertrophy. Of the 474 subjects (age 71.85 ± 6.47 years), 49 (10.3%) developed LVH, while 55 (11.6%) developed LVE during the mean follow-up period of 5 years. Independent predictors of LVH included: central blood pressure (CBP, per 10 mmHg) [HR 1.094, 95% CI 1.011-1.202], BMI˃25(kg/m 2 )[HR 1.306, 95% CI 1.175-1.434], B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) ≥ 100 (pg/mL) [HR 1.635, 95% CI 1.107-3.311] and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) ≥16 m/s [HR 1.605, 95% CI 1.474-2.039]. Predictors of LVE were CBP (per 10 mmHg) [HR 1.121, 95% CI 1.027-1.238], BMI˃25(kg/m 2 )[HR 1.302, 95% CI 1.173-1.444], Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) [HR 1.193, 95%CI 1.013-1.405] and E/e' ratio [HR 1.077, 95% CI 1.017-1.140]. CBP and BMI were demonstrated to be independent and robust predictors of left ventricular remodeling among elderly women, including both LVE and LVH. BNP and baPWV were specifically related to the development of LVH, whereas LDL-C and E/e' ratio were related to LVE.

  17. Ca2+ handling remodeling and STIM1L/Orai1/TRPC1/TRPC4 upregulation in monocrotaline-induced right ventricular hypertrophy.

    PubMed

    Jessica, Sabourin; Angèle, Boet; Catherine, Rucker-Martin; Mélanie, Lambert; Ana-Maria, Gomez; Jean-Pierre, Benitah; Frédéric, Perros; Marc, Humbert; Fabrice, Antigny

    2018-05-01

    Right ventricular (RV) function is the most important prognostic factor for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) patients. The progressive increase of pulmonary vascular resistance induces RV hypertrophy (RVH) and at term RV failure (RVF). However, the molecular mechanisms of RVH and RVF remain understudied. In this study, we gained insights into cytosolic Ca 2+ signaling remodeling in ventricular cardiomyocytes during the pathogenesis of severe pulmonary hypertension (PH) induced in rats by monocrotaline (MCT) exposure, and we further identified molecular candidates responsible for this Ca 2+ remodeling. After PH induction, hypertrophied RV myocytes presented longer action potential duration, higher and faster [Ca 2+ ] i transients and increased sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca 2+ content, whereas no changes in these parameters were detected in left ventricular (LV) myocytes. These modifications were associated with increased P-Ser 16 -phospholamban pentamer expression without altering SERCA2a (Sarco/Endoplasmic Reticulum Ca 2+ -ATPase) pump abundance. Moreover, after PH induction, Ca 2+ sparks frequency were higher in hypertrophied RV cells, while total RyR2 (Ryanodine Receptor) expression and phosphorylation were unaffected. Together with cellular hypertrophy, the T-tubules network was disorganized. Hypertrophied RV cardiomyocytes from MCT-exposed rats showed decreased expression of classical STIM1 (Stromal Interaction molecule) associated with increased expression of muscle-specific STIM1 Long isoform, glycosylated-Orai1 channel form, and TRPC1 and TRPC4 channels, which was correlated with an enhanced Ca 2+ -release-activated Ca 2+ (CRAC)-like current. Pharmacological inhibition of TRPCs/Orai1 channels in hypertrophied RV cardiomyocytes normalized [Ca 2+ ] i transients amplitude, the SR Ca 2+ content and cell contractility to control levels. Finally, we showed that most of these changes did not appear in LV cardiomyocytes. These new findings demonstrate RV

  18. Spatial variability in T-tubule and electrical remodeling of left ventricular epicardium in mouse hearts with transgenic Gαq overexpression-induced pathological hypertrophy

    PubMed Central

    Tao, Wen; Shi, Jianjian; Dorn, Gerald W.; Wei, Lei; Rubart, Michael

    2012-01-01

    Pathological left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is consistently associated with prolongation of the ventricular action potentials. A number of previous studies, employing various experimental models of hypertrophy, have revealed marked differences in the effects of hypertrophy on action potential duration (APD) between myocytes from endocardial and epicardial layers of the LV free wall. It is not known, however, whether pathological LVH is also accompanied by redistribution of APD among myocytes from the same layer in the LV free wall. In the experiments here, LV epicardial action potential remodeling was examined in a mouse model of decompensated LVH, produced by cardiac-restricted transgenic Gαq overexpression. Confocal linescanning-based optical recordings of propagated action potentials from individual in situ cardiomyocytes across the outer layer of the anterior LV epicardium demonstrated spatially non-uniform action potential prolongation in transgenic hearts, giving rise to alterations in spatial dispersion of epicardial repolarization. Local density and distribution of anti-Cx43 mmune reactivity in Gαq hearts were unchanged compared to wild-type hearts, suggesting preservation of intercellular coupling. Confocal microscopy also revealed heterogeneous disorganization of T-tubules in epicardial cardiomyocytes in situ. These data provide evidence of the existence of significant electrical and structural heterogeneity within the LV epicardial layer of hearts with transgenic Gαq overexpression-induced hypertrophy, and further support the notion that a small portion of electrically well connected LV tissue can maintain dispersion of action potential duration through heterogeneity in the activities of sarcolemmal ionic currents that control repolarization. It remains to be examined whether other experimental models of pathological LVH, including pressure overload LVH, similarly exhibit alterations in T-tubule organization and/or dispersion of repolarization

  19. Effects of Particle Size and Porosity on In Vivo Remodeling of Settable Allograft Bone/Polymer Composites

    PubMed Central

    Prieto, Edna M.; Talley, Anne D.; Gould, Nicholas R.; Zienkiewicz, Katarzyna J.; Drapeau, Susan J.; Kalpakci, Kerem N.

    2014-01-01

    Established clinical approaches to treat bone voids include the implantation of autograft or allograft bone, ceramics, and other bone void fillers (BVFs). Composites prepared from lysine-derived polyurethanes and allograft bone can be injected as a reactive liquid and set to yield BVFs with mechanical strength comparable to trabecular bone. In this study, we investigated the effects of porosity, allograft particle size, and matrix mineralization on remodeling of injectable and settable allograft/polymer composites in a rabbit femoral condyle plug defect model. Both low viscosity (LV) and high viscosity (HV) grafts incorporating small (<105 μm) particles only partially healed at 12 weeks, and the addition of 10% demineralized bone matrix did not enhance healing. In contrast, composite grafts with large (105 – 500 μm) allograft particles healed at 12 weeks post-implantation, as evidenced by radial μCT and histomorphometric analysis. This study highlights particle size and surface connectivity as influential parameters regulating the remodeling of composite bone scaffolds. PMID:25581686

  20. Remodeling of ribosomal genes in somatic cells by Xenopus egg extract

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ostrup, Olga, E-mail: osvarcova@gmail.com; Stem Cell Epigenetics Laboratory, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo; Norwegian Center for Stem Cell Research, Oslo

    Highlights: {yields} Xenopus egg extract remodels nuclei and alter cell growth characteristics. {yields} Ribosomal genes are reprogrammed within 6 h after extract exposure. {yields} rDNA reprogramming involves promoter targeting of SNF2H remodeling complex. {yields} Xenopus egg extract does not initiate stress-related response in somatic cells. {yields} Aza-cytidine elicits a stress-induced response in reprogrammed cells. -- Abstract: Extracts from Xenopus eggs can reprogram gene expression in somatic nuclei, however little is known about the earliest processes associated with the switch in the transcriptional program. We show here that an early reprogramming event is the remodeling of ribosomal chromatin and gene expression.more » This occurs within hours of extract treatment and is distinct from a stress response. Egg extract elicits remodeling of the nuclear envelope, chromatin and nucleolus. Nucleolar remodeling involves a rapid and stable decrease in ribosomal gene transcription, and promoter targeting of the nucleolar remodeling complex component SNF2H without affecting occupancy of the transcription factor UBF and the stress silencers SUV39H1 and SIRT1. During this process, nucleolar localization of UBF and SIRT1 is not altered. On contrary, azacytidine pre-treatment has an adverse effect on rDNA remodeling induced by extract and elicits a stress-type nuclear response. Thus, an early event of Xenopus egg extract-mediated nuclear reprogramming is the remodeling of ribosomal genes involving nucleolar remodeling complex. Condition-specific and rapid silencing of ribosomal genes may serve as a sensitive marker for evaluation of various reprogramming methods.« less

  1. Adjustable, physiological ventricular restraint improves left ventricular mechanics and reduces dilatation in an ovine model of chronic heart failure.

    PubMed

    Ghanta, Ravi K; Rangaraj, Aravind; Umakanthan, Ramanan; Lee, Lawrence; Laurence, Rita G; Fox, John A; Bolman, R Morton; Cohn, Lawrence H; Chen, Frederick Y

    2007-03-13

    Ventricular restraint is a nontransplantation surgical treatment for heart failure. The effect of varying restraint level on left ventricular (LV) mechanics and remodeling is not known. We hypothesized that restraint level may affect therapy efficacy. We studied the immediate effect of varying restraint levels in an ovine heart failure model. We then studied the long-term effect of restraint applied over a 2-month period. Restraint level was quantified by use of fluid-filled epicardial balloons placed around the ventricles and measurement of balloon luminal pressure at end diastole. At 4 different restraint levels (0, 3, 5, and 8 mm Hg), transmural myocardial pressure (P(tm)) and indices of myocardial oxygen consumption (MVO2) were determined in control (n=5) and ovine heart failure (n=5). Ventricular restraint therapy decreased P(tm) and MVO2, and improved mechanical efficiency. An optimal physiological restraint level of 3 mm Hg was identified to maximize improvement without an adverse affect on systemic hemodynamics. At this optimal level, end-diastolic P(tm) and MVO2 indices decreased by 27% and 20%, respectively. The serial longitudinal effects of optimized ventricular restraint were then evaluated in ovine heart failure with (n=3) and without (n=3) restraint over 2 months. Optimized ventricular restraint prevented and reversed pathological LV dilatation (130+/-22 mL to 91+/-18 mL) and improved LV ejection fraction (27+/-3% to 43+/-5%). Measured restraint level decreased over time as the LV became smaller, and reverse remodeling slowed. Ventricular restraint level affects the degree of decrease in P(tm), the degree of decrease in MVO2, and the rate of LV reverse remodeling. Periodic physiological adjustments of restraint level may be required for optimal restraint therapy efficacy.

  2. Adverse ventricular-ventricular interactions in right ventricular pressure load: Insights from pediatric pulmonary hypertension versus pulmonary stenosis.

    PubMed

    Driessen, Mieke M P; Hui, Wei; Bijnens, Bart H; Dragulescu, Andreea; Mertens, Luc; Meijboom, Folkert J; Friedberg, Mark K

    2016-06-01

    Right ventricular (RV) pressure overload has a vastly different clinical course in children with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (iPAH) than in children with pulmonary stenosis (PS). While RV function is well recognized as a key prognostic factor in iPAH, adverse ventricular-ventricular interactions and LV dysfunction are less well characterized and the pathophysiology is incompletely understood. We compared ventricular-ventricular interactions as hypothesized drivers of biventricular dysfunction in pediatric iPAH versus PS Eighteen iPAH, 16 PS patients and 18 age- and size-matched controls were retrospectively studied. Cardiac cycle events were measured by M-mode and Doppler echocardiography. Measurements were compared between groups using ANOVA with post hoc Dunnet's or ANCOVA including RV systolic pressure (RVSP; iPAH 96.8 ± 25.4 mmHg vs. PS 75.4 ± 18.9 mmHg; P = 0.011) as a covariate. RV-free wall thickening was prolonged in iPAH versus PS, extending beyond pulmonary valve closure (638 ± 76 msec vs. 562 ± 76 msec vs. 473 ± 59 msec controls). LV and RV isovolumetric relaxation were prolonged in iPAH (P < 0.001; LV 102.8 ± 24.1 msec vs. 63.1 ± 13.7 msec; RV 95 [61-165] vs. 28 [0-43]), associated with adverse septal kinetics; characterized by rightward displacement in early systole and leftward displacement in late RV systole (i.e., early LV diastole). Early LV diastolic filling was decreased in iPAH (73 ± 15.9 vs. PS 87.4 ± 14.4 vs. controls 95.8 ± 12.5 cm/sec; P = 0.004). Prolonged RVFW thickening, prolonged RVFW isovolumetric times, and profound septal dyskinesia are associated with interventricular mechanical discoordination and decreased early LV filling in pediatric iPAH much more than PS These adverse mechanics affect systolic and diastolic biventricular efficiency in iPAH and may form the basis for worse clinical outcomes. We used clinically derived data to study the pathophysiology of ventricular

  3. Quality-adjusted survival with combination nal-IRI+5-FU/LV vs 5-FU/LV alone in metastatic pancreatic cancer patients previously treated with gemcitabine-based therapy: a Q-TWiST analysis.

    PubMed

    Pelzer, Uwe; Blanc, Jean-Frédéric; Melisi, Davide; Cubillo, Antonio; Von Hoff, Daniel D; Wang-Gillam, Andrea; Chen, Li-Tzong; Siveke, Jens T; Wan, Yin; Solem, Caitlyn T; Botteman, Marc F; Yang, Yoojung; de Jong, Floris A; Hubner, Richard A

    2017-05-09

    In the NAPOLI-1 Phase 3 trial, nal-IRI+5-fluorouracil and leucovorin (5-FU/LV) significantly improved median overall survival (6.1 vs 4.2 months, P=0.012) and progression-free survival (3.1 vs 1.5 months, P=0.0001) vs 5-FU/LV alone in metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients previously treated with gemcitabine-based therapy. This analysis evaluated between treatment differences in quality-adjusted time without symptoms of disease progression or toxicity (Q-TWiST). Overall survival was partitioned into time with grade ⩾3 toxicity (TOX), disease progression (REL), and time without disease progression symptoms or grade ⩾3 toxicity (TWiST). Mean Q-TWiST was calculated by weighting time spent by a utility of 1.0 for TWiST and 0.5 for TOX and REL. In threshold analyses, utility for TOX and REL were varied from 0.0 to 1.0. Patients in nal-IRI+5-FU/LV (n=117) vs 5-FU/LV (n=119) had significantly more mean time in TWiST (3.4 vs 2.4 months) and TOX (1.0 vs 0.3 months) but similar REL (2.5 vs 2.7 months). In the base case, nal-IRI+5-FU/LV patients had 1.3 months (95% CI, 0.4-2.1; 5.1 vs 3.9) greater Q-TWiST (threshold analyses range: 0.9-1.6 months). Within NAPOLI-1, nal-IRI+5-FU/LV resulted in statistically significant and clinically meaningful gains in quality-adjusted survival vs 5-FU/LV alone.

  4. The effect of matrix stiffness of injectable hydrogels on the preservation of cardiac function after a heart attack.

    PubMed

    Plotkin, Marian; Vaibavi, Srirangam Ramanujam; Rufaihah, Abdul Jalil; Nithya, Venkateswaran; Wang, Jing; Shachaf, Yonatan; Kofidis, Theo; Seliktar, Dror

    2014-02-01

    This study compares the effect of four injectable hydrogels with different mechanical properties on the post-myocardial infarction left ventricle (LV) remodeling process. The bioactive hydrogels were synthesized from Tetronic-fibrinogen (TF) and PEG-fibrinogen (PF) conjugates; each hydrogel was supplemented with two levels of additional cross-linker to increase the matrix stiffness as measured by the shear storage modulus (G'). Infarcts created by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery in a rodent model were treated with the hydrogels, and all four treatment groups showed an increase in wall thickness, arterial density, and viable cardiac tissue in the peri-infarct areas of the LV. Echocardiography and hemodynamics data of the PF/TF treated groups showed significant improvement of heart function associated with the attenuated effects of the remodeling process. Multi-factorial regression analysis indicated that the group with the highest modulus exhibited the best rescue of heart function and highest neovascularization. The results of this study demonstrate that multiple properties of an injectable bioactive biomaterial, and notably the matrix stiffness, provide the multifaceted stimulation necessary to preserve cardiac function and prevent adverse remodeling following a heart attack. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Prognostic implications of left ventricular mass and geometry following myocardial infarction: the VALIANT (VALsartan In Acute myocardial iNfarcTion) Echocardiographic Study.

    PubMed

    Verma, Anil; Meris, Alessandra; Skali, Hicham; Ghali, Jalal K; Arnold, J Malcolm O; Bourgoun, Mikhail; Velazquez, Eric J; McMurray, John J V; Kober, Lars; Pfeffer, Marc A; Califf, Robert M; Solomon, Scott D

    2008-09-01

    This study sought to understand prognostic implications of increased baseline left ventricular (LV) mass and geometric patterns in a high risk acute myocardial infarction. The LV hypertrophy and alterations in LV geometry are associated with an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Quantitative echocardiographic analyses were performed at baseline in 603 patients from the VALIANT (VALsartan In Acute myocardial iNfarcTion) echocardiographic study. The left ventricular mass index (LVMi) and relative wall thickness (RWT) were calculated. Patients were classified into 4 mutually exclusive groups based on RWT and LVMi as follows: normal geometry (normal LVMi and normal RWT), concentric remodeling (normal LVMi and increased RWT), eccentric hypertrophy (increased LVMi and normal RWT), and concentric hypertrophy (increased LVMi and increased RWT). Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the relationships among LVMi, RWT, LV geometry, and clinical outcomes. Mean LVMi and RWT were 98.8 +/- 28.4 g/m(2) and 0.38 +/- 0.08. The risk of death or the composite end point of death from cardiovascular causes, reinfarction, heart failure, stroke, or resuscitation after cardiac arrest was lowest for patients with normal geometry, and increased with concentric remodeling (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.0; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.9 to 4.9), eccentric hypertrophy (HR: 3.1; 95% CI: 1.9 to 4.8), and concentric hypertrophy (HR: 5.4; 95% CI: 3.4 to 8.5), after adjusting for baseline covariates. Also, baseline LVMi and RWT were associated with increased mortality and nonfatal cardiovascular outcomes (HR: 1.22 per 10 g/m(2) increase in LVMi; 95% CI: 1.20 to 1.30; p < 0.001) (HR: 1.60 per 0.1-U increase in RWT; 95% CI: 1.30 to 1.90; p < 0.001). Increased risk associated with RWT was independent of LVMi. Increased baseline LV mass and abnormal LV geometry portend an increased risk for morbidity and mortality following high-risk myocardial infarction. Concentric LV

  6. Identifying the function of LvPI3K during the pathogenic infection of Litopenaeus vannamei by Vibrio alginolyticus.

    PubMed

    Kong, Jing-Rong; Wei, Wei; Liang, Qing-Jian; Qiao, Xue-Li; Kang, Huan; Liu, Yuan; Wang, Wei-Na

    2018-05-01

    It is well known that PI3K regulates various processes in mammalian cells by generating a secondary messenger that later activates AKT. However, its innate immune function in crustaceans remains unclear. We report the characterization of Litopenaeus vannamei PI3K (LvPI3K) for investigating how PI3K participates in the innate immunity of crustaceans. Full-length LvPI3K cDNA was 3357 bp long, with a 3222 bp open reading frame (ORF) that encodes a putative protein of 1292 amino acids. The PI3K catalytic domain (PI3Kc) of LvPI3K was found to be rather conserved when the PI3Ks from other species were analyzed. The LvPI3K protein was shown to be localized to the cytoplasm of Drosophila S2 cells, while LvPI3K mRNA was ubiquitously expressed in healthy L. vannamei, with the highest expression found in hemolymph. A dual luciferase reporter gene assay demonstrated that LvPI3K overexpression activated the promoter of antibacterial peptide LvPEN4 in a dose-dependent manner. However, the addition of PDTC, a specific inhibitor of NF-κB, suppressed the LvPI3K-induced LvPEN4 promoter activation. Moreover, Vibrio alginolyticus challenge induced a rapid up-regulation of LvPI3K expression. Further experiments showed that LvPI3K silencing in shrimp challenged with V. alginolyticus significantly increased Vibrio number, ROS production and DNA damage in the hemolymph, as well as significantly decreased total hemocyte count. The mRNA levels of certain molecules related to LvPI3K signaling, such as LvAKT and LvPEN4, also decreased following LvPI3K silencing. Taken together, these results suggest that LvPI3K regulates the downstream signal component LvPEN4 and functions in V. alginolyticus resistance. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Mechanisms and Predictors of Mitral Regurgitation after High-Risk Myocardial Infarction

    PubMed Central

    Meris, Alessandra; Amigoni, Maria; Verma, Anil; Thune, Jens Jakob; Køber, Lars; Velazquez, Eric; McMurray, John J. V.; Pfeffer, Marc A.; Califf, Robert; Levine, Robert A.; Solomon, Scott D.

    2012-01-01

    Background Mitral regurgitation (MR) has been associated with adverse outcomes after myocardial infarction (MI). Without structural valve disease, functional MR has been related to left ventricular (LV) remodeling and geometric deformation of the mitral apparatus. The aims of this study were to elucidate the mechanistic components of MR after high-risk MI and to identify predictors of MR progression during follow-up. Methods The Valsartan in Acute Myocardial Infarction Echo substudy prospectively enrolled 610 patients with LV dysfunction, heart failure, or both after MI. MR at baseline, 1 month, and 20 months was quantified by mapping jet expansion in the left atrium in 341 patients with good-quality echocardiograms. Indices of LV remodeling, left atrial size, and diastolic function and parameters of mitral valve deformation, including tenting area, coaptation depth, anterior leaflet concavity, annular diameters, and contractility, were assessed and related to baseline MR. The progression of MR was further analyzed, and predictors of worsening among the baseline characteristics were identified. Results Tenting area, coaptation depth, annular dilatation, and left atrial size were all associated with the degree of baseline MR. Tenting area was the only significant and independent predictor of worsening MR; a tenting area of 4 cm2 was a useful cutoff to identify worsening of MR after MI and moderate to severe MR after 20 months. Conclusions Increased mitral tenting and larger mitral annular area are determinants of MR degree at baseline, and tenting area is an independent predictor of progression of MR after MI. Although LV remodeling itself contributes to ischemic MR, this influence is directly dependent on alterations in mitral geometry. PMID:22305962

  8. [Swim training attenuates myocardial remodeling and the pulmonary congestion in wistar rats with secondary heart failure to myocardial infarction].

    PubMed

    Portes, Leslie Andrews; Tucci, Paulo José Ferreira

    2006-07-01

    To evaluate the effects of swimming on pulmonary water content in animals with heart failure (HF) after myocardial infarction (MI). After coronary occlusion, MI size 20%LV) were considered moderate and those > 40% of the LV large. The animals swam for 60 min/day, 5 days/week for 8 weeks. The wet weight of lung, liver, atriums, LV and right ventricle (RV) as well as the dry weight of the liver and lung were determined. ANOVA and Tukey test were used for statistical analysis. An increase in the atrium/body weight ratio was noted in the sedentary animals with moderate (MImod-SED: n=8) and large (MIlg-SED: n=10) infarctions in comparison to the sedentary control (C-SED: n=14) and trained (C-TR: n=16) rats. An increase in the RV/body weight and LV/body weight ratios was noted in the MIlg-SED. The heart/body weight ratio was higher in MIlg-SED when compared to the other groups. The infarcted trained animals presented diminished hypertrophy. The pulmonary water content was higher in MIlg-SED animals (81+/-0.4%) than in C-SED animals (79+/-0.4%). No differences were found for the other comparisons (C-TR: 79+/-0.4%; MImod-SED: 80+/-0.3%; MImod-TR: 80+/-0.6%; MIlg-TR: 79+/-0.7%). The increase of cardiac mass and pulmonary water content presented by MIlg-SED was diminished in the trained animals. The results suggest that the practice of physical exercise can diminish HF and contribute to favorable cardiac remodeling.

  9. Altered LV inotropic reserve and mechanoenergetics early in the development of heart failure.

    PubMed

    Prabhu, S D; Freeman, G L

    2000-03-01

    To test the hypothesis that alterations in left ventricular (LV) mechanoenergetics and the LV inotropic response to afterload manifest early in the evolution of heart failure, we examined six anesthetized dogs instrumented with LV micromanometers, piezoelectric crystals, and coronary sinus catheters before and after 24 h of rapid ventricular pacing (RVP). After autonomic blockade, the end-systolic pressure-volume relation (ESPVR), myocardial O(2) consumption (MVO(2)), and LV pressure-volume area (PVA) were defined at several different afterloads produced by graded infusions of phenylephrine. Short-term RVP resulted in reduced preload with proportionate reductions in stroke work and the maximum first derivative of LV pressure but with no significant reduction in baseline LV contractile state. In response to increased afterload, the baseline ESPVR shifted to the left with maintained end-systolic elastance (E(es)). In contrast, after short-term RVP, in response to comparable increases in afterload, the ESPVR displayed reduced E(es) (P < 0.05) and significantly less leftward shift compared with control (P < 0.05). Compared with the control MVO(2)-PVA relation, short-term RVP significantly increased the MVO(2) intercept (P < 0.05) with no change in slope. These results indicate that short-term RVP produces attenuation of afterload-induced enhancement of LV performance and increases energy consumption for nonmechanical processes with maintenance of contractile efficiency, suggesting that early in the development of tachycardia heart failure, there is blunting of length-dependent activation and increased O(2) requirements for excitation-contraction coupling, basal metabolism, or both. Rather than being adaptive mechanisms, these abnormalities may be primary defects involved in the progression of the heart failure phenotype.

  10. Pyridostigmine ameliorates cardiac remodeling induced by myocardial infarction via inhibition of the transforming growth factor-β1/TGF-β1-activated kinase pathway.

    PubMed

    Lu, Yi; Liu, Jin-Jun; Bi, Xue-Yuan; Yu, Xiao-Jiang; Kong, Shan-Shan; Qin, Fang-Fang; Zhou, Jun; Zang, Wei-Jin

    2014-05-01

    Autonomic imbalance characterized by sympathetic predominance coinciding with diminished vagal activity is an independent risk factor in cardiovascular diseases. Several studies show that vagus nerve stimulation exerted beneficial effects on cardiac function and survival. In this study, we investigated the vagomimetic effect of pyridostigmine on left ventricular (LV) remodeling in rats after myocardial infarction. After myocardial infarction, surviving rats were treated with or without pyridostigmine (31 mg·kg⁻¹·d⁻¹) for 2 weeks, and hemodynamic parameters were measured. LV tissue was used to assess infarct size and interstitial fibrosis by Masson's trichrome and 0.1% picrosirius red staining. Protein expression of heart tissues was used to assess the efficacy of the treatment. Pyridostigmine markedly reduced myocardial infarct size and improved cardiac diastolic function. These improvements were accompanied with a significant decrease in matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression and collagen deposition. Additionally, pyridostigmine inhibited both transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and TGF-β1-activated kinase expression in hearts postmyocardial infarction. Thus, pyridostigmine reduces collagen deposition, attenuates cardiac fibrosis, and improves LV diastolic function after myocardial infarction via TGF-β1/TGF-β1-activated kinase pathway inhibition.

  11. Diastolic stiffness as assessed by diastolic wall strain is associated with adverse remodelling and poor outcomes in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

    PubMed

    Ohtani, Tomohito; Mohammed, Selma F; Yamamoto, Kazuhiro; Dunlay, Shannon M; Weston, Susan A; Sakata, Yasushi; Rodeheffer, Richard J; Roger, Veronique L; Redfield, Margaret M

    2012-07-01

    The pathophysiology of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is complex but increased left ventricular (LV) diastolic stiffness plays a key role. A load-independent, non-invasive, direct measure of diastolic stiffness is lacking. The diastolic wall strain (DWS) index is based on the linear elastic theory, which predicts that impaired diastolic wall thinning reflects resistance to deformation in diastole and thus, increased diastolic myocardial stiffness. The objectives of this community-based study were to determine the distribution of this novel index in consecutive HFpEF patients and healthy controls, define the relationship between DWS and cardiac structure and function and determine whether increased diastolic stiffness as assessed by DWS is predictive of the outcome in HFpEF. Consecutive HFpEF patients (n = 327, EF ≥ 50%) and controls (n = 528) from the same community were studied. Diastolic wall strain was lower in HFpEF (0.33 ± 0.08) than in controls (0.40 ± 0.07, P < 0.001). Within HFpEF, those with DWS ≤ median (0.33) had higher LV mass index, relative wall thickness, E/e', Doppler-estimated LV end-diastolic pressure to LV end-diastolic volume ratio, left atrial volume index, and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels than those with DWS > median. Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction patients with DWS ≤ median had higher rate of death or HF hospitalization than those with DWS > median (P = 0.003) even after the adjustment for age, gender, log BNP, LV geometry, or log E/e' (P < 0.01). These data suggest that DWS, a simple index, is useful in assessing diastolic stiffness and that more advanced diastolic stiffness is associated with worse outcomes in HFpEF.

  12. Correcting For Seed-Particle Lag In LV Measurements

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Jones, Gregory S.; Gartrell, Luther R.; Kamemoto, Derek Y.

    1994-01-01

    Two experiments conducted to evaluate effects of sizes of seed particles on errors in LV measurements of mean flows. Both theoretical and conventional experimental methods used to evaluate errors. First experiment focused on measurement of decelerating stagnation streamline of low-speed flow around circular cylinder with two-dimensional afterbody. Second performed in transonic flow and involved measurement of decelerating stagnation streamline of hemisphere with cylindrical afterbody. Concluded, mean-quantity LV measurements subject to large errors directly attributable to sizes of particles. Predictions of particle-response theory showed good agreement with experimental results, indicating velocity-error-correction technique used in study viable for increasing accuracy of laser velocimetry measurements. Technique simple and useful in any research facility in which flow velocities measured.

  13. Reverse right ventricular structural and extracellular matrix remodeling by estrogen in severe pulmonary hypertension

    PubMed Central

    Nadadur, Rangarajan D.; Umar, Soban; Wong, Gabriel; Eghbali, Mansour; Iorga, Andrea; Matori, Humann; Partow-Navid, Rod

    2012-01-01

    Chronic pulmonary hypertension (PH) leads to right-ventricular failure (RVF) characterized by RV remodeling. Ventricular remodeling is emerging as an important process during heart failure and recovery. Remodeling in RVF induced by PH is not fully understood. Recently we discovered that estrogen (E2) therapy can rescue severe preexisting PH. Here, we focused on whether E2 (42.5 μg·kg−1·day−1, 10 days) can reverse adverse RV structural and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling induced by PH using monocrotaline (MCT, 60 mg/kg). RV fibrosis was evident in RVF males. Intact females developed less severe RV remodeling compared with males and ovariectomized (OVX) females. Novel ECM-degrading disintegrin-metalloproteinases ADAM15 and ADAM17 transcripts were elevated ∼2-fold in all RVF animals. E2 therapy reversed RV remodeling in all groups. In vitro, E2 directly inhibited ANG II-induced expression of fibrosis markers as well as the metalloproteinases in cultured cardiac fibroblasts. Estrogen receptor-β agonist diarylpropionitrile (DPN) but not estrogen receptor-α agonist 4,4′,4″-(4-propyl-[1H]-pyrazole-1,3,5-triyl)trisphenol (PPT) was as effective as E2 in inhibiting expression of these genes. Expression of ECM-interacting cardiac fetal-gene osteopontin (OPN) also increased ∼9-fold in RVF males. Intact females were partially protected from OPN upregulation (∼2-fold) but OVX females were not. E2 reversed OPN upregulation in all groups. Upregulation of OPN was also reversed in vitro by E2. Plasma OPN was elevated in RVF (∼1.5-fold) and decreased to control levels in the E2 group. RVF resulted in elevated Akt phosphorylation, but not ERK, in the RV, and E2 therapy restored Akt phosphorylation. In conclusion, E2 therapy reverses adverse RV remodeling associated with PH by reversing fibrosis and upregulation of novel ECM enzymes ADAM15, ADAM17, and OPN. These effects are likely mediated through estrogen receptor-β. PMID:22628376

  14. [Incidence, associated factors, and follow-up of hospital heart failure complicating acute anterior myocardial infarction successfully treated by primary angioplasty].

    PubMed

    Meimoun, P; M'barek, D; Dragomir, C; Luycx-Bore, A; Elmkies, F; Boulanger, J; Zemir, H; Martis, S; Neykova, A; Tzvetkov, B; Clerc, J

    2013-11-01

    Heart failure (HF) complicating acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is of poor prognosis and is often associated with patient's characteristics and success of reperfusion strategies. However, few data is available regarding the high-risk subgroup of patients with anterior AMI treated successfully by primary angioplasty. The aim of the study was to assess the incidence, associated factors, and the future of HF occurring during hospitalisation, in the setting of anterior AMI treated successfully by primary angioplasty. Eighty-five consecutive patients with anterior AMI treated successfully by primary angioplasty (final angiographic TIMI flow grade=3, without residual stenosis) were included. Clinical, biochemical, angiographic, and echocardiographic data were prospectively collected and compared between patients with (Killip 2 and 3) and without HF during hospitalisation. Fifteen patients had HF (18%) during hospitalisation and 70 did not. By comparison to patients without HF, patients with HF were more frequently diabetics, had troponin peak and CPK, leucocytes count, and fasting glucose higher, LVEF and wall motion score index in the left anterior descending territory (WMSi-lad) poorer, and a lower non-invasive coronary flow reserve (CFR) in the LAD 24hours after angioplasty (all, P<0.05). In multivariate analysis, fasting glucose, leucocytes count after angioplasty, CFR and WMSi-lad were independently associated with HF, even after adjusting with angiographic variables (all, P<0.05). At 6months, patients with HF had less recovery of LV function and higher frequency of adverse LV remodelling (58% versus 20%, P<0.01) by comparison to patients without HF. In conclusion, HF is not uncommon even after successful primary angioplasty for anterior AMI (nearly one patient out of 5), is associated with hyperglycaemia and inflammation, a poor microvascular reperfusion, and left ventricular systolic function, and is more frequently complicated by adverse LV remodelling and lack

  15. Phenotypic plasticity and remodeling in the stress-induced Caenorhabditis elegans dauer.

    PubMed

    Androwski, Rebecca J; Flatt, Kristen M; Schroeder, Nathan E

    2017-09-01

    Organisms are often capable of modifying their development to better suit their environment. Under adverse conditions, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans develops into a stress-resistant alternative larval stage called dauer. The dauer stage is the primary survival stage for C. elegans in nature. Large-scale tissue remodeling during dauer conveys resistance to harsh environments. The environmental and genetic regulation of the decision to enter dauer has been extensively studied. However, less is known about the mechanisms regulating tissue remodeling. Changes to the cuticle and suppression of feeding in dauers lead to an increased resistance to external stressors. Meanwhile reproductive development arrests during dauer while preserving the ability to reproduce once favorable environmental conditions return. Dramatic remodeling of neurons, glia, and muscles during dauer likely facilitate dauer-specific behaviors. Dauer-specific pulsation of the excretory duct likely mediates a response to osmotic stress. The power of C. elegans genetics has uncovered some of the molecular pathways regulating dauer tissue remodeling. In addition to genes that regulate single remodeling events, several mutants result in pleiotropic defects in dauer remodeling. This review details the individual aspects of morphological changes that occur during dauer formation and discusses molecular mechanisms regulating these processes. The dauer stage provides us with an excellent model for understanding phenotypic plasticity and remodeling from the individual cell to an entire animal. WIREs Dev Biol 2017, 6:e278. doi: 10.1002/wdev.278 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  16. Electrocardiographic left ventricular strain pattern: everything old is new again.

    PubMed

    Schocken, Douglas D

    2014-01-01

    Electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) has many faces with countless features. Beyond the classic measures of LVH, including QRS voltage and duration, the left ventricular (LV) strain pattern is an element whereby characteristic R-ST depression is followed by a concave ST segment that ends in an asymmetrically inverted T wave. The LV strain pattern generally appears in states of increased systemic blood pressure and must be differentiated from similar but not identical ST-T waves indicating ischemia. The LV strain pattern has been found in population studies to be associated with poor prognosis and increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Regression of LV strain pattern parallels decline in systemic BP during clinical trials of anti-hypertensive therapies but does not indicate or serve as a surrogate for decrease in LV mass. Newer techniques in data collection and processing may allow the process of strain to be studied in more detail to determine the ways in which electrical remodeling of the left ventricle as characterized by LVH with 'repolarization abnormalities' indicates how CV risk might be managed by using LV strain pattern as an electrocardiographic biomarker. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. The immune system and the remodeling infarcted heart: cell biological insights and therapeutic opportunities

    PubMed Central

    Frangogiannis, Nikolaos G

    2014-01-01

    Extensive necrosis of ischemic cardiomyocytes in the infarcted myocardium activates the innate immune response triggering an intense inflammatory reaction. Release of danger signals from dying cells and damaged matrix activates the complement cascade and stimulates Toll-Like Receptor (TLR)/Interleukin (IL)-1 signaling, resulting in activation of the Nuclear Factor (NF)-κB system and induction of chemokines, cytokines and adhesion molecules. Subsequent infiltration of the infarct with neutrophils and mononuclear cells serves to clear the wound from dead cells and matrix debris, while stimulating reparative pathways. In addition to its role in repair of the infarcted heart and formation of a scar, the immune system is also involved in adverse remodeling of the infarcted ventricle. Overactive immune responses and defects in suppression, containment and resolution of the post-infarction inflammatory reaction accentuate dilative remodeling in experimental models and may be associated with chamber dilation, systolic dysfunction and heart failure in patients surviving a myocardial infarction. Interventions targeting the inflammatory response to attenuate adverse remodeling may hold promise in patients with myocardial infarction that exhibit accentuated, prolonged, or dysregulated immune responses to the acute injury. PMID:24072174

  18. Biodegradation of di-n-butyl phthalate by bacterial consortium LV-1 enriched from river sludge

    PubMed Central

    Li, Fangfang; Ruan, Xinling; Song, Jian; Lv, Lv; Chai, Liyuan; Yang, Zhihui; Luo, Lin

    2017-01-01

    A stable bacterial consortium (LV-1) capable of degrading di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) was enriched from river sludge. Community analysis revealed that the main families of LV-1 are Brucellaceae (62.78%) and Sinobacteraceae (14.83%), and the main genera of LV-1 are Brucella spp. (62.78%) and Sinobacter spp. (14.83%). The optimal pH and temperature for LV-1 to degrade DBP were pH 6.0 and 30°C, respectively. Inoculum size influenced the degradation ratio when the incubation time was < 24 h. The initial concentration of DBP also influenced the degradation rates of DBP by LV-1, and the degradation rates ranged from 69.0–775.0 mg/l/d in the first 24 h. Degradation of DBP was best fitted by first-order kinetics when the initial concentration was < 300 mg/l. In addition, Cd2+, Cr6+, and Zn2+ inhibited DBP degradation by LV-1 at all considered concentrations, but low concentrations of Pb2+, Cu2+, and Mn2+ enhanced DBP degradation. The main intermediates (mono-ethyl phthalate [MEP], mono-butyl phthalate [MBP], and phthalic acid [PA]) were identified in the DBP degradation process, thus a new biochemical pathway of DBP degradation is proposed. Furthermore, LV-1 also degraded other phthalates with shorter ester chains (DMP, DEP, and PA). PMID:28542471

  19. Left ventricular remodelling in chronic primary mitral regurgitation: implications for medical therapy.

    PubMed

    McCutcheon, Keir; Manga, Pravin

    Surgical repair or replacement of the mitral valve is currently the only recommended therapy for severe primary mitral regurgitation. The chronic elevation of wall stress caused by the resulting volume overload leads to structural remodelling of the muscular, vascular and extracellular matrix components of the myocardium. These changes are initially compensatory but in the long term have detrimental effects, which ultimately result in heart failure. Understanding the changes that occur in the myocardium due to volume overload at the molecular and cellular level may lead to medical interventions, which potentially could delay or prevent the adverse left ventricular remodelling associated with primary mitral regurgitation. The pathophysiological changes involved in left ventricular remodelling in response to chronic primary mitral regurgitation and the evidence for potential medical therapy, in particular beta-adrenergic blockers, are the focus of this review.

  20. Comparison of three feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) point-of-care antigen test kits using blood and saliva.

    PubMed

    Westman, Mark E; Malik, Richard; Hall, Evelyn; Sheehy, Paul A; Norris, Jacqueline M

    2017-02-01

    Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) can be a challenging infection to diagnose due to a complex feline host-pathogen relationship and occasionally unreliable test results. This study compared the accuracy of three point-of-care (PoC) FeLV p27 antigen test kits commonly used in Australia and available commercially worldwide (SNAP FIV/FeLV Combo, Witness FeLV/FIV and Anigen Rapid FIV/FeLV), using detection of FeLV provirus by an in-house real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay as the diagnostic gold standard. Blood (n=563) and saliva (n=419) specimens were collected from a population of cats determined to include 491 FeLV-uninfected and 72 FeLV-infected individuals (45 progressive infections [p27 and qPCR positive], 27 regressive infections [p27 negative, qPCR positive]). Sensitivity and specificity using whole blood was 63% and 94% for SNAP Combo, 57% and 98% for Witness, and 57% and 98% for Anigen Rapid, respectively. SNAP Combo had a significantly lower specificity using blood compared to the other two kits (P=0.004 compared to Witness, P=0.007 compared to Anigen Rapid). False-positive test results occurred with all three kits using blood, and although using any two kits in parallel increased specificity, no combination of kits completely eliminated the occurrence of false-positive results. We therefore recommend FeLV proviral PCR testing for any cat that tests positive with a PoC FeLV antigen kit, as well as for any cat that has been potentially exposed to FeLV but tests negative with a FeLV antigen kit, before final assignment of FeLV status can be made with confidence. For saliva testing, sensitivity and specificity was 54% and 100%, respectively, for all three test kits. The reduced sensitivity of saliva testing compared to blood testing, although not statistically significant, suggests saliva testing with the current generation of PoC FeLV antigen kits is unsuitable for screening large populations of cats, such as in shelters. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier

  1. Left ventricle: fully automated segmentation based on spatiotemporal continuity and myocardium information in cine cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (LV-FAST).

    PubMed

    Wang, Lijia; Pei, Mengchao; Codella, Noel C F; Kochar, Minisha; Weinsaft, Jonathan W; Li, Jianqi; Prince, Martin R; Wang, Yi

    2015-01-01

    CMR quantification of LV chamber volumes typically and manually defines the basal-most LV, which adds processing time and user-dependence. This study developed an LV segmentation method that is fully automated based on the spatiotemporal continuity of the LV (LV-FAST). An iteratively decreasing threshold region growing approach was used first from the midventricle to the apex, until the LV area and shape discontinued, and then from midventricle to the base, until less than 50% of the myocardium circumference was observable. Region growth was constrained by LV spatiotemporal continuity to improve robustness of apical and basal segmentations. The LV-FAST method was compared with manual tracing on cardiac cine MRI data of 45 consecutive patients. Of the 45 patients, LV-FAST and manual selection identified the same apical slices at both ED and ES and the same basal slices at both ED and ES in 38, 38, 38, and 41 cases, respectively, and their measurements agreed within -1.6 ± 8.7 mL, -1.4 ± 7.8 mL, and 1.0 ± 5.8% for EDV, ESV, and EF, respectively. LV-FAST allowed LV volume-time course quantitatively measured within 3 seconds on a standard desktop computer, which is fast and accurate for processing the cine volumetric cardiac MRI data, and enables LV filling course quantification over the cardiac cycle.

  2. The association of sleep disordered breathing with left ventricular remodeling in CAD patients: a cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Alonderis, Audrius; Raskauskiene, Nijole; Gelziniene, Vaidute; Mickuviene, Narseta; Brozaitiene, Julija

    2017-09-18

    There is still insufficient knowledge on the potential effect of mild to moderate sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) that is widely prevalent, often asymptomatic, and largely undiagnosed in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD). SDB affects 34% of men and 17% of women aged between 30 and 70. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between SDB and left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy as well as structural remodeling in stable CAD patients. The study was based on a cross-sectional design. Echocardiography and polysomnography was performed in 772 patients with CAD and with untreated sleep apnea. All study participants underwent testing by Epworth Sleepiness Scale questionnaire. Their mean age, NYHA and left ventricular ejection fraction were, respectively: 57 ± 9 years, 2.1 ± 0.5 and 51 ± 8%, and 76% were men. Sleep apnea (SA) was defined as an apnea-hypopnea-index (AHI) ≥5 events/h, and, non-SA, as an AHI <5. Sleep apnea was present in 39% of patients, and a large fraction of those patients had no complaints on excessive daytime sleepiness. The patients with SA were older, with higher body mass and higher prevalence of hypertension. LV hypertrophy (LVH), defined by allometrically corrected (LV mass/height 2.7 ) gender-independent criteria, was more common among the patients with SA than those without (86% vs. 74%, p < 0.001). The frequency of LVH by wall thickness criteria (interventricular septal thickness or posterior wall thickness ≥ 12 mm: 49% vs. 33%, p < 0.001) and concentric LVH (61% vs. 47%, p = 0.001) was higher in CAD patients with SA. The patients with SA had significantly higher values of both interventricular septal thickness and posterior wall thickness. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that even mild sleep apnea was an independent predictor for LVH by wall thickness criteria and concentric LVH (OR = 1.5; 95% CI 1.04-2.2 and OR = 1.9; 1.3-2.9 respectively). We concluded that unrecognized

  3. Effect of Adjuvant Chemotherapy on Left Ventricular Remodeling in Women with Newly Diagnosed Primary Breast Cancer: A Pilot Prospective Longitudinal Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study.

    PubMed

    Avelar, Erick; Truong, Quynh A; Inyangetor, David; Marfatia, Ravi; Yang, Clifford; Kaloudis, Electra; Tannenbaum, Susan; Rosito, Guido; Litwin, Sheldon

    2017-11-01

    The aim of this study was to assess the left ventricular (LV) remodeling response to chemotherapy in low-cardiac-risk women with newly diagnosed nonmetastatic breast cancer. Cardiotoxic effects of chemotherapy are an increasing concern. To effectively interpret cardiac imaging studies performed for screening purposes in patients undergoing cancer therapy it is necessary to understand the normal changes in structure and function that may occur. Twenty women without preexisting cardiovascular disease, of a mean age of 50 years, newly diagnosed with nonmetastatic breast cancer and treated with anthracycline or trastuzumab, were prospectively enrolled and evaluated at four time points (at baseline, during chemotherapy, 2 weeks after chemotherapy, and 6 months after chemotherapy) using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, blood samples, and a clinical questionnaire. Over a 6-month period, the left ventricular ejection fraction (%) decreased (64.15±5.30 to 60.41±5.77, P<0.002) and the LV end-diastolic (mm) and end-systolic (mm) volumes increased (124.73±20.25 to 132.21±19.33, P<0.04 and 45.16±11.88 to 52.57±11.65, P<0.00, respectively). The LV mass (g) did not change (73.06±11.51 to 69.21±15.3, P=0.08), but the LV mass to LVEDV ratio (g/mm) decreased (0.594±0.098 to 0.530±0.124, P<0.04). In low-cardiac-risk women with nonmetastatic breast cancer, the increased LV volume and a mildly decreased left ventricular ejection fraction during and after chemotherapy do not seem to be associated with laboratory or clinical evidence of increased risk for heart failure.

  4. Time Course of Electrical Remodeling of Native Conduction After Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy and Its Impact on Clinical Outcome.

    PubMed

    Cvijić, Marta; Žižek, David; Antolič, Bor; Zupan, Igor

    2017-03-01

    Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) induces structural and electrical remodeling (ER) in heart failure (HF) patients. Our aim was to assess time course of ER of native conduction and mechanical remodeling after CRT and impact of CRT-induced ER on clinical outcome. We prospectively included 62 patients (aged 66 ± 10 years). Echocardiographic and ECG parameters were measured at baseline and 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after implantation. Biventricular pacing was temporary inhibited during each follow-up to record intrinsic ECG. ER was defined as a decrease in native pre-implantation QRS duration ≥10 ms. During follow-up HF hospitalizations, cardiovascular death and transplantation (combined end point) were recorded. There were significant changes in intrinsic ECG parameters during follow-up; the narrowing of QRS duration was already observed after 1 month (median 185 ms [interquartile range (IQR) 175-194] vs 180 ms [170-194]; P < .001). Left ventricular (LV) volumes decreased only after 3 months of CRT (median end-systolic volume 167 mL [137-206] vs 140 mL [112-196]; P < .001). Only patients with ER (n = 24) exhibited significant mechanical remodeling and showed superior survival free from the combined end point compared with patients without ER (log-rank P = .028). Electrical remodeling of native conduction precedes detectable left ventricular structural changes after CRT. ER of native conduction is associated with better clinical outcome following CRT. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. The impact of trans-catheter aortic valve replacement induced left-bundle branch block on cardiac reverse remodeling.

    PubMed

    Dobson, Laura E; Musa, Tarique A; Uddin, Akhlaque; Fairbairn, Timothy A; Bebb, Owen J; Swoboda, Peter P; Haaf, Philip; Foley, James; Garg, Pankaj; Fent, Graham J; Malkin, Christopher J; Blackman, Daniel J; Plein, Sven; Greenwood, John P

    2017-02-22

    Left bundle branch block (LBBB) is common following trans-catheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and has been linked to increased mortality, although whether this is related to less favourable cardiac reverse remodeling is unclear. The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of TAVR induced LBBB on cardiac reverse remodeling. 48 patients undergoing TAVR for severe aortic stenosis were evaluated. 24 patients with new LBBB (LBBB-T) following TAVR were matched with 24 patients with a narrow post-procedure QRS (nQRS). Patients underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) prior to and 6 m post-TAVR. Measured cardiac reverse remodeling parameters included left ventricular (LV) size, ejection fraction (LVEF) and global longitudinal strain (GLS). Inter- and intra-ventricular dyssynchrony were determined using time to peak radial strain derived from CMR Feature Tracking. In the LBBB-T group there was an increase in QRS duration from 96 ± 14 to 151 ± 12 ms (P < 0.001) leading to inter- and intra-ventricular dyssynchrony (inter: LBBB-T 130 ± 73 vs nQRS 23 ± 86 ms, p < 0.001; intra: LBBB-T 118 ± 103 vs. nQRS 13 ± 106 ms, p = 0.001). Change in indexed LV end-systolic volume (LVESVi), LVEF and GLS was significantly different between the two groups (LVESVi: nQRS -7.9 ± 14.0 vs. LBBB-T -0.6 ± 10.2 ml/m 2 , p = 0.02, LVEF: nQRS +4.6 ± 7.8 vs LBBB-T -2.1 ± 6.9%, p = 0.002; GLS: nQRS -2.1 ± 3.6 vs. LBBB-T +0.2 ± 3.2%, p = 0.024). There was a significant correlation between change in QRS and change in LVEF (r = -0.434, p = 0.002) and between change in QRS and change in GLS (r = 0.462, p = 0.001). Post-procedure QRS duration was an independent predictor of change in LVEF and GLS at 6 months. TAVR-induced LBBB is associated with less favourable cardiac reverse remodeling at medium term follow up. In view of this, every effort should be made to prevent TAVR-induced LBBB

  6. QRS Width as a Predictor of Right Ventricular Remodeling After Percutaneous Pulmonary Valve Implantation.

    PubMed

    Paech, C; Dähnert, I; Riede, F T; Wagner, R; Kister, T; Nieschke, K; Wagner, F; Gebauer, R A

    2017-08-01

    Recent data showed a right ventricular dyssynchrony in patients with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) has become an important procedure to treat a pulmonary stenosis and/or regurgitation of the right ventricular outflow tract in these patients. Despite providing good results, there is still a considerable number of nonresponders to PPVI. The authors speculated that electrical dysfunction of the right ventricle plays an underestimated role in the outcome of patients after PPVI. This study aimed to investigate the influence of right ventricular electrical dysfunction, i.e., right bundle branch block (RBBB) on the RV remodeling after PPVI. The study included consecutive patients after correction of TOF with or without RBBB, who had received a PPVI previously at the Heart Center of the University of Leipzig, Germany during the period from 2012 to 2015. 24 patients were included. Patients without RBBB, i.e., with narrow QRS complexes pre-intervention, had significantly better RV function and had smaller right ventricular volumes. Patients with pre-interventionally QRS width below 150 ms showed a post-interventional remodeling of the right ventricle with the decreasing RV volumes (p = 0.001). The parameters of LV function and volume as well as RV ejection fraction remained unaffected by RBBB. The presented data indicate that the QRS width seems to be a valuable parameter in the prediction of right ventricular remodeling after PPVI, as it represents both electrical and mechanical functions of the right ventricle and may serve as an additional parameter for optimal timing of a PPVI.

  7. Stress-induced alteration of left ventricular eccentricity: An additional marker of multivessel CAD.

    PubMed

    Gimelli, Alessia; Liga, Riccardo; Giorgetti, Assuero; Casagranda, Mirta; Marzullo, Paolo

    2017-03-28

    Abnormal left ventricular (LV) eccentricity index (EI) is a marker of adverse cardiac remodeling. However, the interaction between stress-induced alterations of EI and major cardiac parameters has not been explored. We sought to evaluate the relationship between LV EI and coronary artery disease (CAD) burden in patients submitted to myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). Three-hundred and forty-three patients underwent MPI and coronary angiography. LV ejection fraction (EF) and EI were computed from gated stress images as measures of stress-induced functional impairment. One-hundred and thirty-six (40%), 122 (35%), and 85 (25%) patients had normal coronary arteries, single-vessel CAD, and multivessel CAD, respectively. Post-stress EI was lower in patients with multivessel CAD than in those with normal coronary arteries and single-vessel CAD (P = 0.001). This relationship was confirmed only in patients undergoing exercise stress test, where a lower post-stress EI predicted the presence of multivessel CAD (P = 0.039). Post-stress alterations of LV EI on MPI may unmask the presence of multivessel CAD.

  8. Adenosine A2A receptor agonist prevents cardiac remodeling and dysfunction in spontaneously hypertensive male rats after myocardial infarction

    PubMed Central

    da Silva, Jaqueline S; Gabriel-Costa, Daniele; Sudo, Roberto T; Wang, Hao; Groban, Leanne; Ferraz, Emanuele B; Nascimento, José Hamilton M; Fraga, Carlos Alberto M; Barreiro, Eliezer J; Zapata-Sudo, Gisele

    2017-01-01

    Background This work evaluated the hypothesis that 3,4-methylenedioxybenzoyl-2-thienylhydrazone (LASSBio-294), an agonist of adenosine A2A receptor, could be beneficial for preventing cardiac dysfunction due to hypertension associated with myocardial infarction (MI). Methods Male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were randomly divided into four groups (six animals per group): sham-operation (SHR-Sham), and myocardial infarction rats (SHR-MI) were treated orally either with vehicle or LASSBio-294 (10 and 20 mg.kg−1.d−1) for 4 weeks. Echocardiography and in vivo hemodynamic parameters measured left ventricle (LV) structure and function. Exercise tolerance was evaluated using a treadmill test. Cardiac remodeling was accessed by LV collagen deposition and tumor necrosis factor α expression. Results Early mitral inflow velocity was significantly reduced in the SHR-MI group, and there was significant recovery in a dose-dependent manner after treatment with LASSBio-294. Exercise intolerance observed in the SHR-MI group was prevented by 10 mg.kg−1.d−1 of LASS-Bio-294, and exercise tolerance exceeded that of the SHR-Sham group at 20 mg.kg−1.d−1. LV end-diastolic pressure increased after MI, and this was prevented by 10 and 20 mg.kg−1.d−1 of LASSBio-294. Sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase levels were restored in a dose-dependent manner after treatment with LASSBio-294. Fibrosis and inflammatory processes were also counteracted by LASSBio-294, with reductions in LV collagen deposition and tumor necrosis factor α expression. Conclusion In summary, oral administration of LASSBio-294 after MI in a dose-dependent manner prevented the development of cardiac dysfunction, demonstrating this compound’s potential as an alternative treatment for heart failure in the setting of ischemic heart disease with superimposed chronic hypertension. PMID:28293100

  9. Pay attention to cardiac remodeling in cancer cachexia.

    PubMed

    Zheng, Yawen; Chen, Han; Li, Xiaoqing; Sun, Yuping

    2016-07-01

    Cancer cachexia is a complex and multifaceted disease state characterized by fatigue, weakness, and loss of skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. Recently, the profound negative effects of cancer cachexia on cardiac tissue draw much attention, which is likely to contribute to mortality in tumor-bearing animals. The mechanism of cardiac remodeling is not so clear and involved with a series of molecular alterations. In cancer cachexia model, progressive loss of left ventricular mass and decrease in myocardial function is observed and cardiac autonomic functions are altered. Levels of several emerging cardiovascular neurohormones are found elevating in patients with cancer, but it is still controversial whether the changes could reflect the heart injury accurately. The remedy for cardiac remodeling has been explored. It is showed that exercise can modulate signaling pathways activated by wasting cytokines and impact on the resulting outcomes on heart adaptation. Some drugs, such as bisoprolol, spironolactone, perindopril, tandospirone, and simvastatin, can mitigate adverse effects of the tumor on the heart and prolong survival.

  10. The surface glycoprotein of a natural feline leukemia virus subgroup A variant, FeLV-945, as a determinant of disease outcome.

    PubMed

    Bolin, Lisa L; Ahmad, Shamim; Levy, Laura S

    2011-10-15

    Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a natural retrovirus of domestic cats associated with degenerative, proliferative and malignant diseases. Studies of FeLV infection in a cohort of naturally infected cats were undertaken to examine FeLV variation, the selective pressures operative in FeLV infection that lead to predominance of natural variants, and the consequences for infection and disease progression. A unique variant, designated FeLV-945, was identified as the predominant isolate in the cohort and was associated with non-T-cell diseases including multicentric lymphoma. FeLV-945 was assigned to the FeLV-A subgroup based on sequence analysis and receptor utilization, but was shown to differ in sequence from a prototype member of FeLV-A, designated FeLV-A/61E, in the long terminal repeat (LTR) and the surface glycoprotein gene (SU). A unique sequence motif in the FeLV-945 LTR was shown to function as a transcriptional enhancer and to confer a replicative advantage. The FeLV-945 SU protein was observed to differ in sequence as compared to FeLV-A/61E within functional domains known to determine receptor selection and binding. Experimental infection of newborn cats was performed using wild type FeLV-A/61E or recombinant FeLV-A/61E in which the LTR (61E/945L) or LTR and SU (61E/945SL) were exchanged for that of FeLV-945. Infection with either FeLV-A/61E or 61E/945L resulted in T-cell lymphoma of the thymus, although 61E/945L caused disease significantly more rapidly. In contrast, infection with 61E/945SL resulted in the rapid induction of a multicentric lymphoma of B-cell origin, thus recapitulating the outcome of natural infection and implicating FeLV-945 SU as a determinant of disease outcome. Recombinant FeLV-B was detected infrequently and at low levels in multicentric lymphomas, and was thereby not implicated in disease induction. Preliminary studies of receptor interaction indicated that virus particles bearing FeLV-945 SU bind to the FeLV-A receptor more

  11. Combined administration in a single injection of a feline multivalent modified live vaccine against FHV, FCV, and FPLV together with a recombinant FeLV vaccine is both safe and efficacious for all four major feline viral pathogens.

    PubMed

    Kanellos, Theo; Sutton, David J; Salisbury, Claire F; Chalmers, William Stuart K

    2008-08-01

    Nobivac Tricat, a lyophilised trivalent modified live attenuated vaccine is routinely used to protect cats against three commonly diagnosed feline viral pathogens namely herpesvirus, calicivirus and panleukopenia virus. The recognition of feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) as an important viral pathogen has prompted the development of an efficacious liquid recombinant subunit FeLV vaccine (p45 envelope protein). Lyophilised Tricat vaccine was dissolved in the liquid FeLV vaccine and no detectable deleterious effect on the titre of any of the live virus components was observed after 2h incubation. In vivo studies where the vaccines were mixed in the same syringe prior to inoculation showed no alteration to the safety profile assessed by repeat and overdose studies. Serological comparisons of the modified live viral antibody titres showed no evidence of reduced responses following administration of the mixed products. Challenge studies using pathogenic herpesvirus and FeLV revealed no difference in the degree of clinical protection. This paper shows that neither safety nor efficacy is adversely affected as a result of mixing the two vaccines.

  12. Computer-based assessment of left ventricular regional ejection fraction in patients after myocardial infarction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Teo, S.-K.; Su, Y.; Tan, R. S.; Zhong, L.

    2014-03-01

    After myocardial infarction (MI), the left ventricle (LV) undergoes progressive remodeling which adversely affects heart function and may lead to development of heart failure. There is an escalating need to accurately depict the LV remodeling process for disease surveillance and monitoring of therapeutic efficacy. Current practice of using ejection fraction to quantitate LV function is less than ideal as it obscures regional variation and anomaly. Therefore, we sought to (i) develop a quantitative method to assess LV regional ejection fraction (REF) using a 16-segment method, and (ii) evaluate the effectiveness of REF in discriminating 10 patients 1-3 months after MI and 9 normal control (sex- and agematched) based on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) CMR scans were also acquired for the MI patients to assess scar extent. We observed that the REF at the basal, mid-cavity and apical regions for the patient group is significantly lower as compared to the control group (P < 0.001 using a 2-tail student t-test). In addition, we correlated the patient REF over these regions with their corresponding LGE score in terms of 4 categories - High LGE, Low LGE, Border and Remote. We observed that the median REF decreases with increasing severity of infarction. The results suggest that REF could potentially be used as a discriminator for MI and employed to measure myocardium homogeneity with respect to degree of infarction. The computational performance per data sample took approximately 25 sec, which demonstrates its clinical potential as a real-time cardiac assessment tool.

  13. Cardiac mechanics and heart rate variability in patients with systemic sclerosis: the association that we should not miss.

    PubMed

    Zlatanovic, Maja; Tadic, Marijana; Celic, Vera; Ivanovic, Branislava; Stevanovic, Ana; Damjanov, Nemanja

    2017-01-01

    We aimed to determine left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) structure, function and mechanics, as well as heart rate variability (HRV), and their relationship, in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). The study included 41 SSc patients and 30 age-matched healthy volunteers. All the patients underwent clinical examination, serological tests, pulmonary function testing, 24-h Holter monitoring and complete two-dimensional echocardiography including strain analysis. The parameters of LV structure (interventricular septum thickness and LV mass index) and RV structure (RV wall thickness) were significantly higher in SSc patients. LV and RV diastolic function (estimated by mitral and tricuspid E/e' ratio) was significantly impaired in SSc group comparing with the healthy controls. LV and RV longitudinal function was significantly deteriorated in SSc patients. LV circumferential strain was also significantly lower in SSc group, whereas LV radial strain was similar between the observed groups. All parameters of time and frequency domain of HRV were decreased in SSc patients. LV and RV cardiac remodeling parameters, particularly diastolic function and longitudinal strain, were associated with HRV indices without regard to the main demographic or the clinical and echocardiographic characteristics. Rodnan Skin Score was also independently associated with biventricular cardiac remodeling in SSc patients. LV and RV structure, function and mechanics, as well as autonomic nervous function, were significantly impaired in SSc patients. There is the significant association between biventricular cardiac remodeling and autonomic function in these patients, which could be useful for their everyday clinical assessment.

  14. Potential adverse cardiac remodelling in highly trained athletes: still unknown clinical significance.

    PubMed

    Gabrielli, Luigi; Sitges, Marta; Chiong, Mario; Jalil, Jorge; Ocaranza, María; Llevaneras, Silvana; Herrera, Sebastian; Fernandez, Rodrigo; Saavedra, Rodrigo; Yañez, Fernando; Vergara, Luis; Diaz, Alexis; Lavandero, Sergio; Castro, Pablo

    2018-06-12

    Moderate endurance exercise has long been considered an essential element to maintain cardiovascular health, and sedentary behaviour in the general population has been related to a significant increase in all-causes of mortality, cardiovascular disease mortality and cardiovascular disease incidence. However, a growing group of people performs an intense exercise that leads to multiple heart adaptive changes that are collectively called "athlete's heart". In this review, we discussed the evidence of cardiac remodelling process secondary to repetitive and strenuous exercise in some predisposed athletes that produces intense and probably deleterious changes in cardiac morphology and function with no clear clinical significance in long-term follow-up. Moreover, we also discussed the individual biological response to exercise assessed by myocardial damage, inflammation, oxidative stress, fibrosis and ventricular hypertrophy biomarkers showing different intensities with equivalent exertion.

  15. Seroprevalence of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) in shelter cats on the island of Newfoundland, Canada.

    PubMed

    Munro, Hannah J; Berghuis, Lesley; Lang, Andrew S; Rogers, Laura; Whitney, Hugh

    2014-04-01

    Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are retroviruses found within domestic and wild cat populations. These viruses cause severe illnesses that eventually lead to death. Housing cats communally for long periods of time makes shelters at high risk for virus transmission among cats. We tested 548 cats from 5 different sites across the island of Newfoundland for FIV and FeLV. The overall seroprevalence was 2.2% and 6.2% for FIV and FeLV, respectively. Two sites had significantly higher seroprevalence of FeLV infection than the other 3 sites. Analysis of sequences from the FeLV env gene (envelope gene) from 6 positive cats showed that 4 fell within the FeLV subtype-A, while 2 sequences were most closely related to FeLV subtype-B and endogenous feline leukemia virus (en FeLV). Varying seroprevalence and the variation in sequences at different sites demonstrate that some shelters are at greater risk of FeLV infections and recombination can occur at sites of high seroprevalence.

  16. Impact of hypertension with or without diabetes on left ventricular remodeling in rural Chinese population: a cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Li, Tan; Chen, Shuang; Guo, Xiaofan; Yang, Jun; Sun, Yingxian

    2017-07-27

    The aim of this study was to assess the impact of hypertension with or without diabetes on left ventricular (LV) remodeling in rural Chinese population. A total of 10,270 participants were classified into control group, hypertension without diabetes (HT) group, and hypertension with diabetes (HT + DM) group. We compared clinical characteristics and echocardiographic parameters, and used multivariable logistic regression analysis to assess the associations of interest. HT + DM group had higher interventricular septal thickness (IVSd), posterior wall thickness (PWTd), left ventricular mass (LVM), LVM index (LVMI), relative wall thickness (RWT), left atrial diameter (LAD), A wave and lower E wave than HT group (all P < 0.05). The prevalence rates of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and abnormal geometry were statistically different among three groups (P < 0.001) and eccentric hypertrophy was the highest proportion of geometry abnormality. Logistic regression analysis suggested that subjects in HT and HT + DM groups had odds ratio (OR) values of 2.81, 4.41, 2.24 and 3.94, 7.20, 2.38 for LVH, concentric hypertrophy and eccentric hypertrophy in the total population, respectively, compared to control group. When compared with HT group, those in HT + DM group had approximately 1.40-, 1.61- and 1.38-, 1.71-fold increased risk for LVH and concentric hypertrophy in the total and female population separately, but no association of HT + DM with LVH and abnormal geometrical patterns was found in men. This study demonstrated that, to varying degrees, hypertension was associated with LV remodeling in rural Chinese population, and this risk association was obviously increased for LVH and concentric hypertrophy when accompanied by diabetes, especially for women.

  17. Exposure of cats to low doses of FeLV: seroconversion as the sole parameter of infection

    PubMed Central

    Major, Andrea; Cattori, Valentino; Boenzli, Eva; Riond, Barbara; Ossent, Peter; Meli, Marina Luisa; Hofmann-Lehmann, Regina; Lutz, Hans

    2009-01-01

    In felids, feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection results in a variety of outcomes that range from abortive (virus readily eliminated and never detectable) to progressive infection (persistent viremia and viral shedding). Recently, a novel outcome was postulated for low FeLV infectious doses. Naïve cats exposed to faeces of persistently infected cats seroconverted, indicating infection, but remained negative for provirus and p27 antigen in blood. FeLV provirus was found in some tissues but not in the bone marrow, infection of which is usually considered a necessary stage for disease progression. To investigate the impact of low FeLV doses on young cats and to test the hypothesis that low dose exposure may lead to an unknown pathogenesis of infection without involvement of the bone marrow, 21 cats were infected oronasally with variable viral doses. Blood p27, proviral and viral loads were followed until week 20 post-infection. Tissue proviral loads were determined as well. The immune response was monitored by measuring FeLV whole virus and p45 antibodies; and feline oncornavirus-associated cell membrane antigen (FOCMA) assay. One cat showed regressive infection (transient antigenemia, persistent provirus-positivity, and seroconversion) with provirus only found in some organs at sacrifice. In 7 of the 20 remaining cats FOCMA assay positivity was the only sign of infection, while all other tests were negative. Overall, the results show that FeLV low dose exposure can result in seroconversion during a presumed abortive infection. Therefore, commonly used detection methods do not detect all FeLV-infected animals, possibly leading to an underestimation of the prevalence of infection. PMID:19861115

  18. Development and evaluation of a semiautomatic segmentation method for the estimation of LV parameters on cine MR images

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mazonakis, Michalis; Grinias, Elias; Pagonidis, Konstantin; Tziritas, George; Damilakis, John

    2010-02-01

    The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a semiautomatic method for left ventricular (LV) segmentation on cine MR images and subsequent estimation of cardiac parameters. The study group comprised cardiac MR examinations of 18 consecutive patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease. The new method allowed the automatic detection of the LV endocardial and epicardial boundaries on each short-axis cine MR image using a Bayesian flooding segmentation algorithm and weighted least-squares B-splines minimization. Manual editing of the automatic contours could be performed for unsatisfactory segmentation results. The end-diastolic volume (EDV), end-systolic volume (ESV), ejection fraction (EF) and LV mass estimated by the new method were compared with the reference values obtained by manually tracing the LV cavity borders. The reproducibility of the new method was determined using data from two independent observers. The mean number of endocardial and epicardial outlines not requiring any manual adjustment was more than 80% and 76% of the total contour number per study, respectively. The mean segmentation time including the required manual corrections was 2.3 ± 0.7 min per patient. LV volumes estimated by the semiautomatic method were significantly lower than those by manual tracing (P < 0.05), whereas no difference was found for EF and LV mass (P > 0.05). LV indices estimated by the two methods were well correlated (r >= 0.80). The mean difference between manual and semiautomatic method for estimating EDV, ESV, EF and LV mass was 6.1 ± 7.2 ml, 3.0 ± 5.2 ml, -0.6 ± 4.3% and -6.2 ± 12.2 g, respectively. The intraobserver and interobserver variability associated with the semiautomatic determination of LV indices was 0.5-1.2% and 0.8-3.9%, respectively. The estimation of LV parameters with the new semiautomatic segmentation method is technically feasible, highly reproducible and time effective.

  19. Association between left ventricular mechanics and diffuse myocardial fibrosis in patients with repaired Tetralogy of Fallot: a cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Haggerty, Christopher M; Suever, Jonathan D; Pulenthiran, Arichanah; Mejia-Spiegeler, Abba; Wehner, Gregory J; Jing, Linyuan; Charnigo, Richard J; Fornwalt, Brandon K; Fogel, Mark A

    2017-12-11

    Patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) have progressive, adverse biventricular remodeling, leading to abnormal contractile mechanics. Defining the mechanisms underlying this dysfunction, such as diffuse myocardial fibrosis, may provide insights into poor long-term outcomes. We hypothesized that left ventricular (LV) diffuse fibrosis is related to impaired LV mechanics. Patients with TOF were evaluated with cardiac magnetic resonance in which modified Look-Locker (MOLLI) T1-mapping and spiral cine Displacement encoding (DENSE) sequences were acquired at three LV short-axis positions. Linear mixed modeling was used to define the association between regional LV mechanics from DENSE based on regional T1-derived diffuse fibrosis measures, such as extracellular volume fraction (ECV). Forty patients (26 ± 11 years) were included. LV ECV was generally within normal range (0.24 ± 0.05). For LV mechanics, peak circumferential strains (-15 ± 3%) and dyssynchrony indices (16 ± 8 ms) were moderately impaired, while peak radial strains (29 ± 8%) were generally normal. After adjusting for patient age, sex, and regional LV differences, ECV was associated with log-adjusted LV dyssynchrony index (β = 0.67) and peak LV radial strain (β = -0.36), but not LV circumferential strain. Moreover, post-contrast T1 was associated with log-adjusted LV diastolic circumferential strain rate (β = 0.37). We observed several moderate associations between measures of fibrosis and impaired mechanics, particularly the LV dyssynchrony index and peak radial strain. Diffuse fibrosis may therefore be a causal factor in some ventricular dysfunction in TOF.

  20. Prolongation of atrio-ventricular node conduction in a rabbit model of ischaemic cardiomyopathy: Role of fibrosis and connexin remodelling.

    PubMed

    Nisbet, Ashley M; Camelliti, Patrizia; Walker, Nicola L; Burton, Francis L; Cobbe, Stuart M; Kohl, Peter; Smith, Godfrey L

    2016-05-01

    Conduction abnormalities are frequently associated with cardiac disease, though the mechanisms underlying the commonly associated increases in PQ interval are not known. This study uses a chronic left ventricular (LV) apex myocardial infarction (MI) model in the rabbit to create significant left ventricular dysfunction (LVD) 8weeks post-MI. In vivo studies established that the PQ interval increases by approximately 7ms (10%) with no significant change in average heart rate. Optical mapping of isolated Langendorff perfused rabbit hearts recapitulated this result: time to earliest activation of the LV was increased by 14ms (16%) in the LVD group. Intra-atrial and LV transmural conduction times were not altered in the LVD group. Isolated AVN preparations from the LVD group demonstrated a significantly longer conduction time (by approximately 20ms) between atrial and His electrograms than sham controls across a range of pacing cycle lengths. This difference was accompanied by increased effective refractory period and Wenckebach cycle length, suggesting significantly altered AVN electrophysiology post-MI. The AVN origin of abnormality was further highlighted by optical mapping of the isolated AVN. Immunohistochemistry of AVN preparations revealed increased fibrosis and gap junction protein (connexin43 and 40) remodelling in the AVN of LVD animals compared to sham. A significant increase in myocyte-non-myocyte connexin co-localization was also observed after LVD. These changes may increase the electrotonic load experienced by AVN muscle cells and contribute to slowed conduction velocity within the AVN. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  1. Impact of positive and negative lesion site remodeling on clinical outcomes: insights from PROSPECT.

    PubMed

    Inaba, Shinji; Mintz, Gary S; Farhat, Naim Z; Fajadet, Jean; Dudek, Dariusz; Marzocchi, Antonio; Templin, Barry; Weisz, Giora; Xu, Ke; de Bruyne, Bernard; Serruys, Patrick W; Stone, Gregg W; Maehara, Akiko

    2014-01-01

    This study investigated coronary artery remodeling patterns associated with clinical outcomes. In the prospective, multicenter PROSPECT (Providing Regional Observations to Study Predictors of Events in the Coronary Tree: An Imaging Study in Patients With Unstable Atherosclerotic Lesions) study, reported predictors of nonculprit lesion (NCL) major adverse cardiac events (MACE) were an intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) minimal lumen area (MLA) ≤4 mm(2), a plaque burden ≥70%, and a IVUS-virtual histology (VH) thin-cap fibroatheroma (TCFA), but not lesion site remodeling. Overall, 697 consecutive patients with an acute coronary syndrome were enrolled and underwent 3-vessel gray-scale and IVUS-VH; 3,223 NCLs were identified by IVUS. The remodeling index (RI) was calculated as the external elastic membrane area at the MLA site divided by the average of the proximal and distal reference external elastic membrane areas. First, one third of the patients were randomly selected to determine RI cutoffs related to NCL MACE (development cohort). Receiver-operating characteristic analysis showed that there were 2 separate cut points that predicted NCL MACE: RI = 0.8789 and RI = 1.0046 (area under the curve = 0.663). These cut points were used to define negative remodeling as an RI <0.88, intermediate remodeling as an RI of 0.88 to 1.00, and positive remodeling as an RI >1.00. Second, we used the remaining two-thirds of patients to validate these cut points with respect to lesion morphology and clinical outcomes (validation cohort). Kaplan-Meier curve analysis in the validation cohort showed that NCL MACE occurred more frequent (and equally) in negative and positive remodeling lesions compared with intermediate remodeling lesions. In this cohort, negative remodeling lesions had the smallest MLA, positive remodeling lesions had the largest plaque burden, and VH TCFA, especially VH TCFA with multiple necrotic cores, was most common in negatively remodeling lesions. The present

  2. The non-specificity of the left/right ventricular amplitude ratio (LV/RV) for mitral insufficiency

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Preston, D.F.; Reinsel, M.S.; Martin, N.L.

    1984-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine the specificity of the LV/RV for mitral insufficiency. One hundred and sixty patients underwent MUGA studies as part of their diagnostic evaluation. Phase analysis was performed. In the amplitude image, the LV/RV was measured. Patients were divided into 11 clinical groups based on chart review after adequate follow-up. The groups were compared by Duncan's Multiple Comparsion Test. Patients with mitral insufficiency (N = 12, mean LV/RV = 2.36), those with idiopathic myocardiopathy (8, 2.29) and those with normal hearts having lung disease on chest x-ray (22, 1.78) formed a group which atmore » the p < .05 level were not different from one another. Patients with idiopathic myocardiography, normal hearts with lung disease on chest x-ray, normal hearts with lung disease (23, 1.71) formed a second group which partially overlapped with both the first and third groups. The third group consisted of normal hearts with lung disease, normal hearts not taking adriamycin (18, 1.53), normal hearts taking adriamycin (22, 1.50), congestive heart failure (19, 1.50), arteriosclerotic heart disease, normal hearts (15, 1.29), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and acute myocardial infarction. The LV/RV is not specific for mitral insufficiency. Idiopathic myocardiography, and normal hearts with lung disease on chest x-ray (metastases, cancer of the lung, infiltrates, fibrosis, and/or COPD) cannot be differentiated on a statistical basis. The mitral insufficiency group had the greatest values of LV/RV. It appears that decreased RV amplitude seen with diseases causing strain on the right ventricle will result in elevated LV/RV ratios.« less

  3. Role of HIV-2 envelope in Lv2-mediated restriction

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Reuter, Sandra; Kaumanns, Patrick; Buschhorn, Sabine B.

    2005-02-05

    We have characterized envelope protein pseudotyped HIV-2 particles derived from two HIV-2 isolates termed prCBL23 and CBL23 in order to define the role of the envelope protein for the Lv2-mediated restriction to infection. Previously, it has been described that the primary isolate prCBL23 is restricted to infection of several human cell types, whereas the T cell line adapted isolate CBL23 is not restricted in these cell types. Molecular cloning of the two isolates revealed that the env and the gag gene are responsible for the observed phenotype and that this restriction is mediated by Lv2, which is distinct from Ref1/Lv1more » (Schmitz, C., Marchant, D., Neil, S.J., Aubin, K., Reuter, S., Dittmar, M.T., McKnight, A., Kizhatil, K., Albritton, L.M., 2004. Lv2, a novel postentry restriction, is mediated by both capsid and envelope. J. Virol. 78 (4), 2006-2016). We generated pseudotyped viruses consisting of HIV-2 (ROD-A{delta}env-GFP, ROD-A{delta}env-RFP, or ROD-A{delta}env-REN) and the prCBL23 or CBL23 envelope proteins as well as chimeric proteins between these envelopes. We demonstrate that a single amino acid exchange at position 74 in the surface unit of CBL23-Env confers restriction to infection. This single point mutation causes tighter CD4 binding, resulting in a less efficient fusion into the cytosol of the restricted cell line. Prevention of endosome formation and prevention of endosome acidification enhance infectivity of the restricted particles for GHOST/X4 cells indicating a degradative lysosomal pathway as a cause for the reduced cytosolic entry. The described restriction to infection of the primary isolate prCBL23 is therefore largely caused by an entry defect. A remaining restriction to infection (19-fold) is preserved when endosomal acidification is prevented. This restriction to infection is also dependent on the presence of the point mutation at position 74 (G74E)« less

  4. Plasma electrophoretogram in feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and/or feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) infections.

    PubMed

    Miró, G; Doménech, A; Escolar, E; Collado, V M; Tejerizo, G; De Las Heras, A; Gómez-Lucía, E

    2007-05-01

    The electrophoretogram of 89 cats, including those infected by feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV+), feline leukaemia virus (FeLV+) and non-infected, showed statistically significant differences in several of the fractions. FIV+ cats had very high protein values (mean, 8.10 g/dl), mostly because of hypergammaglobulinemia (mean, 2.81 g/dl) as compared with non-infected animals and FeLV+. In addition, in these FIV+ animals, the albumin/globulins ratio (A/G) was very low (mean, 0.72). Statistically significant differences in A/G and alpha2-globulin fraction were observed in FeLV+ group (A/G mean, 0.88 +/- 0.08; alpha2-globulin, mean, 0.84 +/- 0.07 g/dl) when compared with non-infected group (A/G mean, 1.06 +/- 0.08; alpha2-globulin mean, 0.68 +/- 0.04 g/dl). The alpha1-globulin fraction was higher in double infected animals (FIV and FeLV positive, F-F) (3.55 g/dl), than in FeLV+ or FIV+ cats (3.10 and 3.07 g/dl respectively), but no statistical conclusions may be drawn from this fact because of the low number of F-F animals. This technique may help to assess the initial clinical status of retrovirus-infected cats, and the clinical course of these chronic diseases, specifically during and after suitable therapy.

  5. No-Regrets Remodeling, 2nd Edition

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    None

    2013-12-01

    No-Regrets Remodeling, sponsored by Oak Ridge National Laboratory, is an informative publication that walks homeowners and/or remodelers through various home remodeling projects. In addition to remodeling information, the publication provides instruction on how to incorporate energy efficiency into the remodeling process. The goal of the publication is to improve homeowner satisfaction after completing a remodeling project and to provide the homeowner with a home that saves energy and is comfortable and healthy.

  6. Left Ventricular Dysfunction and Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Infants and Children with Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome in the Absence of Tachyarrhythmias

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) are rarely attributable to sustained or incessant tachyarrhythmias in infants and children with Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome. However, several recent reports suggested that significant LV dysfunction may develop in WPW syndrome in the absence of tachyarrhythmias. It is assumed that an asynchronous ventricular activation over the accessory pathway, especially right-sided, induces septal wall motion abnormalities, ventricular remodeling and ventricular dysfunction. The prognosis of DCM associated with asymptomatic WPW is excellent. Loss of ventricular pre-excitation results in mechanical resynchronization and reverse remodeling where LV function recovers completely. The reversible nature of LV dysfunction after loss of ventricular pre-excitation supports the causal relationship between LV dysfunction and ventricular pre-excitation. This review summarizes recent clinical and electrophysiological evidence for development of LV dysfunction or DCM in asymptomatic WPW syndrome, and discusses the underlying pathophysiological mechanism. PMID:23323117

  7. Multiple nucleotide preferences determine cleavage-site recognition by the HIV-1 and M-MuLV RNases H.

    PubMed

    Schultz, Sharon J; Zhang, Miaohua; Champoux, James J

    2010-03-19

    The RNase H activity of reverse transcriptase is required during retroviral replication and represents a potential target in antiviral drug therapies. Sequence features flanking a cleavage site influence the three types of retroviral RNase H activity: internal, DNA 3'-end-directed, and RNA 5'-end-directed. Using the reverse transcriptases of HIV-1 (human immunodeficiency virus type 1) and Moloney murine leukemia virus (M-MuLV), we evaluated how individual base preferences at a cleavage site direct retroviral RNase H specificity. Strong test cleavage sites (designated as between nucleotide positions -1 and +1) for the HIV-1 and M-MuLV enzymes were introduced into model hybrid substrates designed to assay internal or DNA 3'-end-directed cleavage, and base substitutions were tested at specific nucleotide positions. For internal cleavage, positions +1, -2, -4, -5, -10, and -14 for HIV-1 and positions +1, -2, -6, and -7 for M-MuLV significantly affected RNase H cleavage efficiency, while positions -7 and -12 for HIV-1 and positions -4, -9, and -11 for M-MuLV had more modest effects. DNA 3'-end-directed cleavage was influenced substantially by positions +1, -2, -4, and -5 for HIV-1 and positions +1, -2, -6, and -7 for M-MuLV. Cleavage-site distance from the recessed end did not affect sequence preferences for M-MuLV reverse transcriptase. Based on the identified sequence preferences, a cleavage site recognized by both HIV-1 and M-MuLV enzymes was introduced into a sequence that was otherwise resistant to RNase H. The isolated RNase H domain of M-MuLV reverse transcriptase retained sequence preferences at positions +1 and -2 despite prolific cleavage in the absence of the polymerase domain. The sequence preferences of retroviral RNase H likely reflect structural features in the substrate that favor cleavage and represent a novel specificity determinant to consider in drug design. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  8. Current Management of Calcific Aortic Stenosis

    PubMed Central

    Lindman, Brian R.; Bonow, Robert O.; Otto, Catherine M.

    2014-01-01

    Calcific aortic stenosis (AS) is a progressive disease with no effective medical therapy that ultimately requires aortic valve replacement (AVR) for severe valve obstruction. Echocardiography is the primary diagnostic approach to define valve anatomy, measure AS severity and evaluate the left ventricular (LV) response to chronic pressure overload. In asymptomatic patients, markers of disease progression include the degree of leaflet calcification, hemodynamic severity of stenosis, adverse LV remodeling, reduced LV longitudinal strain, myocardial fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension. The onset of symptoms portends a predictably high mortality rate unless AVR is performed. In symptomatic patients, AVR improves symptoms, improves survival and, in patients with LV dysfunction, improves systolic function. Poor outcomes after AVR are associated with low-flow low-gradient AS, severe ventricular fibrosis, oxygen dependent lung disease, frailty, advanced renal dysfunction and a high comorbidity score. However, in most patients with severe symptoms, AVR is lifesaving. Bioprosthetic valves are recommended for patients over the age of 65 years. Transcatheter AVR is now available for patients with severe comorbidities, is recommended in patients who are deemed inoperable and is a reasonable alternative to surgical AVR in high risk patients. PMID:23833296

  9. Worsening of left ventricular end-systolic volume and mitral regurgitation without increase in left ventricular dyssynchrony on acute interruption of cardiac resynchronization therapy.

    PubMed

    Kuppahally, Suman S; Fowler, Michael B; Vagelos, Randall; Wang, Paul; Al-Ahmad, Amin; Paloma, Allan; Liang, David

    2009-08-01

    Responders to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) have greater left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony than nonresponders prior to CRT. We conducted this study to see whether the long term responders have more worsening of LV dyssynchrony and LV function on acute interruption of CRT. We identified 22 responders and 13 nonresponders who received CRT as per standard criteria for 23.73 +/- 7.9 months (median 24.5 months). We assessed the acute change in LV function, mitral regurgitation (MR) and compared LV dyssynchrony in CRT on and off modes. On turning off CRT, there was no significant worsening of LV dyssynchrony in both responders and nonresponders. The dyssynchrony measurements by SPWMD, TDI and 3D echocardiography did not correlate significantly. LVESV increased (p = 0.02) and MR (p = 0.01) worsened in CRT-off mode in responders only without significant change in LVEF or LV dimensions. In long-term responders to CRT, there is alteration in the function of remodeled LV with acute interruption of CRT, without significant worsening of LV dyssynchrony. The role of different echocardiographic parameters in the assessment of LV dyssynchrony remains controversial. Even after long-term CRT reversely remodels the LV, the therapy needs to be continued uninterrupted for sustained benefits.

  10. Chromatin Remodeling and Plant Immunity.

    PubMed

    Chen, W; Zhu, Q; Liu, Y; Zhang, Q

    Chromatin remodeling, an important facet of the regulation of gene expression in eukaryotes, is performed by two major types of multisubunit complexes, covalent histone- or DNA-modifying complexes, and ATP-dependent chromosome remodeling complexes. Snf2 family DNA-dependent ATPases constitute the catalytic subunits of ATP-dependent chromosome remodeling complexes, which accounts for energy supply during chromatin remodeling. Increasing evidence indicates a critical role of chromatin remodeling in the establishment of long-lasting, even transgenerational immune memory in plants, which is supported by the findings that DNA methylation, histone deacetylation, and histone methylation can prime the promoters of immune-related genes required for disease defense. So what are the links between Snf2-mediated ATP-dependent chromosome remodeling and plant immunity, and what mechanisms might support its involvement in disease resistance? © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. Changes in Left Ventricular Morphology and Function After Mitral Valve Surgery

    PubMed Central

    Shafii, Alexis E.; Gillinov, A. Marc; Mihaljevic, Tomislav; Stewart, William; Batizy, Lillian H.; Blackstone, Eugene H.

    2015-01-01

    Degenerative mitral valve disease is the leading cause of mitral regurgitation in North America. Surgical intervention has hinged on symptoms and ventricular changes that develop as compensatory ventricular remodeling takes place. In this study, we sought to characterize the temporal response of left ventricular (LV) morphology and function to mitral valve surgery for degenerative disease, and identify preoperative factors that influence reverse remodeling. From 1986–2007, 2,778 patients with isolated degenerative mitral valve disease underwent valve repair (n=2,607/94%) or replacement (n=171/6%) and had at least 1 postoperative transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE); 5,336 TTEs were available for analysis. Multivariable longitudinal repeated-measures analysis was performed to identify factors associated with reverse remodeling. LV dimensions decreased in the first year after surgery (end-diastolic from 5.7±0.80 to 4.9±1.4 cm; end-systolic from 3.4±0.71 to 3.1±1.4 cm). LV mass index decreased from 139±44 to 112±73 g·m−2. Reduction of LV hypertrophy was less pronounced in patients with greater preoperative left heart enlargement (P<.0001) and greater preoperative LV mass (P<.0001). Postoperative LV ejection fraction initially decreased from 58±7.0 to 53±20, increased slightly over the first postoperative year, and was negatively influenced by preoperative heart failure symptoms (P<.0001) and lower preoperative LV ejection fraction (P<.0001). Risk-adjusted response of LV morphology and function to valve repair and replacement was similar (P>.2). In conclusion, a positive response toward normalization of LV morphology and function after mitral valve surgery is greatest in the first year. The best response occurs when surgery is performed before left heart dilatation, LV hypertrophy, or LV dysfunction develop. PMID:22534055

  12. Erythrocyte Stiffness during Morphological Remodeling Induced by Carbon Ion Radiation

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Baoping; Liu, Bin; Zhang, Hong; Wang, Jizeng

    2014-01-01

    The adverse effect induced by carbon ion radiation (CIR) is still an unavoidable hazard to the treatment object. Thus, evaluation of its adverse effects on the body is a critical problem with respect to radiation therapy. We aimed to investigate the change between the configuration and mechanical properties of erythrocytes induced by radiation and found differences in both the configuration and the mechanical properties with involving in morphological remodeling process. Syrian hamsters were subjected to whole-body irradiation with carbon ion beams (1, 2, 4, and 6 Gy) or X-rays (2, 4, 6, and 12 Gy) for 3, 14 and 28 days. Erythrocytes in peripheral blood and bone marrow were collected for cytomorphological analysis. The mechanical properties of the erythrocytes were determined using atomic force microscopy, and the expression of the cytoskeletal protein spectrin-α1 was analyzed via western blotting. The results showed that dynamic changes were evident in erythrocytes exposed to different doses of carbon ion beams compared with X-rays and the control (0 Gy). The magnitude of impairment of the cell number and cellular morphology manifested the subtle variation according to the irradiation dose. In particular, the differences in the size, shape and mechanical properties of the erythrocytes were well exhibited. Furthermore, immunoblot data showed that the expression of the cytoskeletal protein spectrin-α1 was changed after irradiation, and there was a common pattern among its substantive characteristics in the irradiated group. Based on these findings, the present study concluded that CIR could induce a change in mechanical properties during morphological remodeling of erythrocytes. According to the unique characteristics of the biomechanical categories, we deduce that changes in cytomorphology and mechanical properties can be measured to evaluate the adverse effects generated by tumor radiotherapy. Additionally, for the first time, the current study provides a new

  13. Erythrocyte stiffness during morphological remodeling induced by carbon ion radiation.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Baoping; Liu, Bin; Zhang, Hong; Wang, Jizeng

    2014-01-01

    The adverse effect induced by carbon ion radiation (CIR) is still an unavoidable hazard to the treatment object. Thus, evaluation of its adverse effects on the body is a critical problem with respect to radiation therapy. We aimed to investigate the change between the configuration and mechanical properties of erythrocytes induced by radiation and found differences in both the configuration and the mechanical properties with involving in morphological remodeling process. Syrian hamsters were subjected to whole-body irradiation with carbon ion beams (1, 2, 4, and 6 Gy) or X-rays (2, 4, 6, and 12 Gy) for 3, 14 and 28 days. Erythrocytes in peripheral blood and bone marrow were collected for cytomorphological analysis. The mechanical properties of the erythrocytes were determined using atomic force microscopy, and the expression of the cytoskeletal protein spectrin-α1 was analyzed via western blotting. The results showed that dynamic changes were evident in erythrocytes exposed to different doses of carbon ion beams compared with X-rays and the control (0 Gy). The magnitude of impairment of the cell number and cellular morphology manifested the subtle variation according to the irradiation dose. In particular, the differences in the size, shape and mechanical properties of the erythrocytes were well exhibited. Furthermore, immunoblot data showed that the expression of the cytoskeletal protein spectrin-α1 was changed after irradiation, and there was a common pattern among its substantive characteristics in the irradiated group. Based on these findings, the present study concluded that CIR could induce a change in mechanical properties during morphological remodeling of erythrocytes. According to the unique characteristics of the biomechanical categories, we deduce that changes in cytomorphology and mechanical properties can be measured to evaluate the adverse effects generated by tumor radiotherapy. Additionally, for the first time, the current study provides a new

  14. Analysis of critical operating conditions for LV distribution networks with microgrids

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zehir, M. A.; Batman, A.; Sonmez, M. A.; Font, A.; Tsiamitros, D.; Stimoniaris, D.; Kollatou, T.; Bagriyanik, M.; Ozdemir, A.; Dialynas, E.

    2016-11-01

    Increase in the penetration of Distributed Generation (DG) in distribution networks, raises the risk of voltage limit violations while contributing to line losses. Especially in low voltage (LV) distribution networks (secondary distribution networks), impacts of active power flows on the bus voltages and on the network losses are more dominant. As network operators must meet regulatory limitations, they have to take into account the most critical operating conditions in their systems. In this study, it is aimed to present the impact of the worst operation cases of LV distribution networks comprising microgrids. Simulation studies are performed on a field data-based virtual test-bed. The simulations are repeated for several cases consisting different microgrid points of connection with different network loading and microgrid supply/demand conditions.

  15. Effects of long term treatment with high doses of odanacatib on bone mass, bone strength, and remodeling/modeling in newly ovariectomized monkeys.

    PubMed

    Duong, L T; Pickarski, M; Cusick, T; Chen, C M; Zhuo, Y; Scott, K; Samadfam, R; Smith, S Y; Pennypacker, B L

    2016-07-01

    The objectives here were to evaluate the effects of odanacatib (ODN) at doses exceeding the clinical exposure on biomechanical properties of lumbar vertebrae (LV), hip and central femur (CF), and compare ODN to alendronate (ALN) on bone remodeling/modeling in ovariectomized (OVX) monkeys. Ten days post-surgery, animals were treated with vehicle (VEH), ODN-L (2mg/kg/day, p.o.), ODN-H (8/4mg/kg/day), or ALN (30μg/kg/week, s.c.) for 20months. An intact group was also included. ODN-L provided systemic exposures of 1.8-fold of clinical exposure. ODN-H started at 20-fold for 5.5months, and then reduced to 7.8-fold of clinical exposure, compared to ALN at approximated clinical exposure. From cross sectional analyses, LV density and peak load in ODN at both doses or ALN were not different from VEH or Intact. However, cortical thickness of femoral neck (FN) and CF in ODN were higher (21-34%, p<0.05) than VEH, due to smaller endocortical (Ec) perimeter of FN (10-11%; p<0.05) and CF (9-12%; ODN-L, p<0.05), and larger CF periosteal (Ps) perimeter (2-12%; ODN-H, p<0.001) versus VEH. ODN groups also showed slightly higher cortical porosity and Ps non-lamellar bone in CF. ODN-H treatment resulted in higher CF peak load (p<0.05) versus VEH. For all bone sites analyzed, a positive, linear relationship (r(2)=0.46-0.69, p<0.0001) of peak load to density or structural parameters was demonstrated. No treatment-related differences in the derived intrinsic strength properties were evidenced as compared between groups. ALN reduced all remodeling surfaces without affecting Ps modeling. Trabecular and intracortical remodeling were reduced in ODN groups, similar to ALN. Ec mineralizing surface in ODN-H trended to be lower than VEH by month 20, but Ec bone formation indices in ODN groups generally were not different from VEH. Ps modeling in ODN groups was significantly higher than other treatment groups. This study overall demonstrated the bone safety profile of ODN and its unique mechanism

  16. Tenascin-C promotes chronic pressure overload-induced cardiac dysfunction, hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Podesser, Bruno K; Kreibich, Maximilian; Dzilic, Elda; Santer, David; Förster, Lorenz; Trojanek, Sandra; Abraham, Dietmar; Krššák, Martin; Klein, Klaus U; Tretter, Eva V; Kaun, Christoph; Wojta, Johann; Kapeller, Barbara; Gonçalves, Inês Fonseca; Trescher, Karola; Kiss, Attila

    2018-04-01

    Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy is characterized by cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and interstitial fibrosis ultimately leading to increased myocardial stiffness and reduced contractility. There is substantial evidence that the altered expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and Tenascin-C (TN-C) are associated with the progression of adverse LV remodeling. However, the role of TN-C in the development of LV hypertrophy because of chronic pressure overload as well as the regulatory role of TN-C on MMPs remains unknown. In a knockout mouse model of TN-C, we investigated the effect of 10 weeks of pressure overload using transverse aortic constriction (TAC). Cardiac function was determined by magnetic resonance imaging. The expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9, CD147 as well as myocardial fibrosis were assessed by immunohistochemistry. The expression of TN-C was assessed by RT-qPCR and ELISA. TN-C knockout mice showed marked reduction in fibrosis (P < 0.001) and individual cardiomyocytes size (P < 0.01), in expression of MMP-2 (P < 0.05) and MMP-9 (P < 0.001) as well as preserved cardiac function (P < 0.01) in comparison with wild-type mice after 10 weeks of TAC. In addition, CD147 expression was markedly increased under pressure overload (P < 0.01), irrespectively of genotype. TN-C significantly increased the expression of the markers of hypertrophy such as ANP and BNP as well as MMP-2 in H9c2 cells (P < 0.05, respectively). Our results are pointed toward a novel signaling mechanism that contributes to LV remodeling via MMPs upregulation, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy as well as myocardial fibrosis by TN-C under chronic pressure overload.

  17. Intramyocardial injection of autologous cardiospheres or cardiosphere-derived cells preserves function and minimizes adverse ventricular remodeling in pigs with heart failure post-myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Lee, Shuo-Tsan; White, Anthony J; Matsushita, Satoshi; Malliaras, Konstantinos; Steenbergen, Charles; Zhang, Yiqiang; Li, Tao-Sheng; Terrovitis, John; Yee, Kristine; Simsir, Sinan; Makkar, Raj; Marbán, Eduardo

    2011-01-25

    The purpose of this study was to test the safety and efficacy of direct injection of cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs) and their 3-dimensional precursors, cardiospheres, for cellular cardiomyoplasty in a mini-pig model of heart failure after myocardial infarction. Intracoronary administration of CDCs has been demonstrated to reduce infarct size and improve hemodynamic indexes in the mini-pig model, but intramyocardial injection of CDCs or cardiospheres has not been assessed in large animals. Autologous cardiospheres or CDCs grown from endomyocardial biopsies were injected through thoracotomy 4 weeks after anteroseptal myocardial infarction. Engraftment optimization with luciferase-labeled CDCs guided the choice of cell dose (0.5 million cells/site) and target tissue (20 peri-infarct sites). Pigs were randomly allocated to placebo (n = 11), cardiospheres (n = 8), or CDCs (n = 10). Functional data were acquired before injection and again 8 weeks later, after which organs were harvested for histopathology. Beyond the immediate perioperative period, all animals survived to protocol completion. Ejection fraction was equivalent at baseline, but at 8 weeks was higher than placebo in both of the cell-treated groups (placebo vs. CDC, p = 0.01; placebo vs. cardiospheres, p = 0.01). Echocardiographic and hemodynamic indexes of efficacy improved disproportionately with cardiospheres; likewise, adverse remodeling was more attenuated with cardiospheres than with CDCs. Provocative electrophysiologic testing showed no differences among groups, and no tumors were found. Dosage-optimized direct injection of cardiospheres or CDCs is safe and effective in preserving ventricular function in porcine ischemic cardiomyopathy. Although CDCs and cardiospheres have equivalent effects on left ventricular ejection fraction, cardiospheres are superior in improving hemodynamics and regional function, and in attenuating ventricular remodeling. Copyright © 2011 American College of Cardiology

  18. Involvement of Inflammation and Adverse Vascular Remodelling in the Blood Pressure Raising Effect of Repeatedly Heated Palm Oil in Rats

    PubMed Central

    Ng, Chun-Yi; Kamisah, Yusof; Faizah, Othman; Jubri, Zakiah; Qodriyah, Hj Mohd Saad; Jaarin, Kamsiah

    2012-01-01

    Oil thermoxidation during deep frying generates harmful oxidative free radicals that induce inflammation and increase the risk of hypertension. This study aimed to investigate the effect of repeatedly heated palm oil on blood pressure, aortic morphometry, and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) expression in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups: control, fresh palm oil (FPO), one-time-heated palm oil (1HPO), five-time-heated palm oil (5HPO), or ten-time-heated palm oil (10HPO). Feeding duration was six months. Blood pressure was measured at baseline and monthly using tail-cuff method. After six months, the rats were sacrificed and the aortic arches were dissected for morphometric and immunohistochemical analyses. FPO group showed significantly lower blood pressure than all other groups. Blood pressure was increased significantly in 5HPO and 10HPO groups. The aortae of 5HPO and 10HPO groups showed significantly increased thickness and area of intima-media, circumferential wall tension, and VCAM-1 than other groups. Elastic lamellae were disorganised and fragmented in 5HPO- and 10HPO-treated rats. VCAM-1 expression showed a significant positive correlation with blood pressure. In conclusion, prolonged consumption of repeatedly heated palm oil causes blood pressure elevation, adverse remodelling, and increased VCAM-1, which suggests a possible involvement of inflammation. PMID:22778962

  19. Prevention of liver cancer cachexia-induced cardiac wasting and heart failure.

    PubMed

    Springer, Jochen; Tschirner, Anika; Haghikia, Arash; von Haehling, Stephan; Lal, Hind; Grzesiak, Aleksandra; Kaschina, Elena; Palus, Sandra; Pötsch, Mareike; von Websky, Karoline; Hocher, Berthold; Latouche, Celine; Jaisser, Frederic; Morawietz, Lars; Coats, Andrew J S; Beadle, John; Argiles, Josep M; Thum, Thomas; Földes, Gabor; Doehner, Wolfram; Hilfiker-Kleiner, Denise; Force, Thomas; Anker, Stefan D

    2014-04-01

    Symptoms of cancer cachexia (CC) include fatigue, shortness of breath, and impaired exercise capacity, which are also hallmark symptoms of heart failure (HF). Herein, we evaluate the effects of drugs commonly used to treat HF (bisoprolol, imidapril, spironolactone) on development of cardiac wasting, HF, and death in the rat hepatoma CC model (AH-130). Tumour-bearing rats showed a progressive loss of body weight and left-ventricular (LV) mass that was associated with a progressive deterioration in cardiac function. Strikingly, bisoprolol and spironolactone significantly reduced wasting of LV mass, attenuated cardiac dysfunction, and improved survival. In contrast, imidapril had no beneficial effect. Several key anabolic and catabolic pathways were dysregulated in the cachectic hearts and, in addition, we found enhanced fibrosis that was corrected by treatment with spironolactone. Finally, we found cardiac wasting and fibrotic remodelling in patients who died as a result of CC. In living cancer patients, with and without cachexia, serum levels of brain natriuretic peptide and aldosterone were elevated. Systemic effects of tumours lead not only to CC but also to cardiac wasting, associated with LV-dysfunction, fibrotic remodelling, and increased mortality. These adverse effects of the tumour on the heart and on survival can be mitigated by treatment with either the β-blocker bisoprolol or the aldosterone antagonist spironolactone. We suggest that clinical trials employing these agents be considered to attempt to limit this devastating complication of cancer.

  20. Prevention of liver cancer cachexia-induced cardiac wasting and heart failure

    PubMed Central

    Springer, Jochen; Tschirner, Anika; Haghikia, Arash; von Haehling, Stephan; Lal, Hind; Grzesiak, Aleksandra; Kaschina, Elena; Palus, Sandra; Pötsch, Mareike; von Websky, Karoline; Hocher, Berthold; Latouche, Celine; Jaisser, Frederic; Morawietz, Lars; Coats, Andrew J.S.; Beadle, John; Argiles, Josep M.; Thum, Thomas; Földes, Gabor; Doehner, Wolfram; Hilfiker-Kleiner, Denise; Force, Thomas; Anker, Stefan D.

    2014-01-01

    Aims Symptoms of cancer cachexia (CC) include fatigue, shortness of breath, and impaired exercise capacity, which are also hallmark symptoms of heart failure (HF). Herein, we evaluate the effects of drugs commonly used to treat HF (bisoprolol, imidapril, spironolactone) on development of cardiac wasting, HF, and death in the rat hepatoma CC model (AH-130). Methods and results Tumour-bearing rats showed a progressive loss of body weight and left-ventricular (LV) mass that was associated with a progressive deterioration in cardiac function. Strikingly, bisoprolol and spironolactone significantly reduced wasting of LV mass, attenuated cardiac dysfunction, and improved survival. In contrast, imidapril had no beneficial effect. Several key anabolic and catabolic pathways were dysregulated in the cachectic hearts and, in addition, we found enhanced fibrosis that was corrected by treatment with spironolactone. Finally, we found cardiac wasting and fibrotic remodelling in patients who died as a result of CC. In living cancer patients, with and without cachexia, serum levels of brain natriuretic peptide and aldosterone were elevated. Conclusion Systemic effects of tumours lead not only to CC but also to cardiac wasting, associated with LV-dysfunction, fibrotic remodelling, and increased mortality. These adverse effects of the tumour on the heart and on survival can be mitigated by treatment with either the β-blocker bisoprolol or the aldosterone antagonist spironolactone. We suggest that clinical trials employing these agents be considered to attempt to limit this devastating complication of cancer. PMID:23990596

  1. Obese subjects show sex-specific differences in right ventricular hypertrophy.

    PubMed

    Rider, Oliver J; Lewis, Andrew J M; Lewandowski, Adam J; Ntusi, Ntobeko; Nethononda, Richard; Petersen, Steffen E; Francis, Jane M; Pitcher, Alex; Banerjee, Rajarshi; Leeson, Paul; Neubauer, Stefan

    2015-01-01

    As right ventricular (RV) remodeling in obesity remains underinvestigated, and the impact of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction on RV hypertrophy is unknown, we aimed to investigate whether (1) sex-specific patterns of RV remodeling exist in obesity and (2) LV diastolic dysfunction in obesity is related to RV hypertrophy. Seven hundred thirty-nine subjects (women, n=345; men, n=394) without identifiable cardiovascular risk factors (body mass index [BMI], 15.3-59.2 kg/m2) underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance (1.5 T) to measure RV mass (g), RV end-diastolic volume (mL), RV mass/volume ratio, and LV diastolic peak filling rate (mL/s). All subjects were normotensive (average, 119±11/73±8 mm Hg), normoglycaemic (4.8±0.5 mmol/L), and normocholesterolaemic (4.8±0.9 mmol/L) at the time of scanning. Across both sexes, there was a moderately strong positive correlation between BMI and RV mass (men, +0.8 g per BMI point increase; women, +1.0 g per BMI point increase; both P<0.001). Whereas women exhibited RV cavity dilatation (RV end-diastolic volume, +1.0 mL per BMI point increase; P<0.001), BMI was not correlated with RV end-diastolic volume in men (R=0.04; P=0.51). Concentric RV remodeling was present in both sexes, with RV mass/volume ratio being positively correlated to BMI (men, R=0.41; women, R=0.51; both P<0.001). Irrespective of sex, the LV peak filling rate was negatively correlated with both RV mass (men, R=-0.43; women, R=-0.44; both P<0.001) and RV mass/volume ratio (men, R=-0.37; women, R=-0.35; both P<0.001). A sex difference in RV remodeling exists in obesity. Whereas men exhibit concentric RV remodeling, women exhibit a mixed pattern of eccentric and concentric remodeling. Regardless of sex, reduced LV diastolic function is associated with concentric RV remodeling. © 2014 American Heart Association, Inc.

  2. Pulsatile Fluid Shear in Bone Remodeling

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Frangos, John A.

    1997-01-01

    The objective of this investigation was to elucidate the sensitivity to transients in fluid shear stress in bone remodeling. Bone remodeling is clearly a function of the local mechanical environment which includes interstitial fluid flow. Traditionally, load-induced remodeling has been associated with low frequency (1-2 Hz) signals attributed to normal locomotion. McLeod and Rubin, however, demonstrated in vivo remodeling events associated with high frequency (15-30 Hz) loading. Likewise, other in vivo studies demonstrated that slowly applied strains did not trigger remodeling events. We therefore hypothesized that the mechanosensitive pathways which control bone maintenance and remodeling are differentially sensitive to varying rates of applied fluid shear stress.

  3. Assessment of valve haemodynamics, reverse ventricular remodelling and myocardial fibrosis following transcatheter aortic valve implantation compared to surgical aortic valve replacement: a cardiovascular magnetic resonance study

    PubMed Central

    Fairbairn, Timothy A; Steadman, Christopher D; Mather, Adam N; Motwani, Manish; Blackman, Daniel J; Plein, Sven; McCann, Gerry P; Greenwood, John P

    2013-01-01

    Objective To compare the effects of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) on aortic valve haemodynamics, ventricular reverse remodelling and myocardial fibrosis (MF) by cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. Design A 1.5 T CMR scan was performed preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Setting University hospitals of Leeds and Leicester, UK. Patients 50 (25 TAVI, 25 SAVR; age 77±8 years) high-risk severe symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS) patients. Main outcome measures Valve haemodynamics, ventricular volumes, ejection fraction (EF), mass and MF. Results Patients were matched for gender and AS severity but not for age (80±6 vs 73±7 years, p=0.001) or EuroSCORE (22±14 vs 7±3, p<0.001). Aortic valve mean pressure gradient decreased to a greater degree post-TAVI compared to SAVR (21±8 mm Hg vs 35±13 mm Hg, p=0.017). Aortic regurgitation reduced by 8% in both groups, only reaching statistical significance for TAVI (p=0.003). TAVI and SAVR improved (p<0.05) left ventricular (LV) end-systolic volumes (46±18 ml/m2 vs 41±17 ml/m2; 44±22 ml/m2 vs32±6 ml/m2) and mass (83±20 g/m2 vs 65±15 g/m2; 74±11 g/m2 vs 59±8 g/m2). SAVR reduced end-diastolic volumes (92±19 ml/m2 vs 74±12 ml/m2, p<0.001) and TAVI increased EF (52±12% vs 56±10%, p=0.01). MF reduced post-TAVI (10.9±6% vs 8.5±5%, p=0.03) but not post-SAVR (4.2±2% vs 4.1±2%, p=0.98). Myocardial scar (p≤0.01) and baseline ventricular volumes (p<0.001) were the major predictors of reverse remodelling. Conclusions TAVI was comparable to SAVR at LV reverse remodelling and superior at reducing the valvular pressure gradient and MF. Future work should assess the prognostic importance of reverse remodelling and fibrosis post-TAVI to aid patient selection. PMID:23749779

  4. Athlete's Heart: Is the Morganroth Hypothesis Obsolete?

    PubMed

    Haykowsky, Mark J; Samuel, T Jake; Nelson, Michael D; La Gerche, Andre

    2018-05-01

    In 1975, Morganroth and colleagues reported that the increased left ventricular (LV) mass in highly trained endurance athletes versus nonathletes was primarily due to increased end-diastolic volume while the increased LV mass in resistance trained athletes was solely due to an increased LV wall thickness. Based on the divergent remodelling patterns observed, Morganroth and colleagues hypothesised that the increased "volume" load during endurance exercise may be similar to that which occurs in patients with mitral or aortic regurgitation while the "pressure" load associated with performing a Valsalva manoeuvre (VM) during resistance exercise may mimic the stress imposed on the heart by systemic hypertension or aortic stenosis. Despite widespread acceptance of the four-decade old Morganroth hypothesis in sports cardiology, some investigators have questioned whether such a divergent "athlete's heart" phenotype exists. Given this uncertainty, the purpose of this brief review is to re-evaluate the Morganroth hypothesis regarding: i) the acute effects of resistance exercise performed with a brief VM on LV wall stress, and the patterns of LV remodelling in resistance-trained athletes; ii) the acute effects of endurance exercise on biventricular wall stress, and the time course and pattern of LV and right ventricular (RV) remodelling with endurance training; and iii) the value of comparing "loading" conditions between athletes and patients with cardiac pathology. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  5. Peritrophin-like protein from Litopenaeus vannamei (LvPT) involved in white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) infection in digestive tract challenged with reverse gavage

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xie, Shijun; Li, Fuhua; Zhang, Xiaojun; Zhang, Jiquan; Xiang, Jianhai

    2017-11-01

    The peritrophic membrane plays an important role in the defense system of the arthropod gut. The digestive tract is considered one of the major tissues targeted by white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) in shrimp. In this study, the nucleotide sequence encoding peritrophin-like protein of Litopenaeus vannamei (LvPT) was amplified from a yeast two-hybrid library of L. vannamei. The epitope peptide of LvPT was predicted with the GenScript OptimumAntigen™ design tool. An anti-LvPT polyclonal antibody was produced and shown to specifically bind a band at 27 kDa, identified as LvPT. The LvPT protein was expressed and its concentration determined. LvPT dsRNA (4 μg per shrimp) was used to inhibit LvPT expression in shrimp, and a WSSV challenge experiment was then performed with reverse gavage. The pleopods, stomachs, and guts were collected from the shrimp at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h post-infection (hpi). Viral load quantification showed that the levels of WSSV were significantly lower in the pleopods, stomachs, and guts of shrimp after LvPT dsRNA interference than in those of the controls at 48 and 72 hpi. Our results imply that LvPT plays an important role during WSSV infection of the digestive tract.

  6. Effect of Neurohormonal Blockade Drug Therapy on Outcomes and Left Ventricular Function and Structure After Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation.

    PubMed

    Grupper, Avishay; Zhao, Yanjun M; Sajgalik, Pavol; Joyce, Lyle D; Park, Soon J; Pereira, Naveen L; Stulak, John M; Burnett, John C; Edwards, Brooks S; Daly, Richard C; Kushwaha, Sudhir S; Schirger, John A

    2016-06-01

    Neurohormonal blockade drug therapy (NHBDT) is the cornerstone therapy in heart failure (HF) management for promoting reverse cardiac remodeling and improving outcomes. It's utility in left ventricular assist device (LVAD) supported patients remains undefined. Sixty-four patients who received continuous flow LVAD at our institution were retrospectively reviewed and divided into 2 groups: no-NHBDT group (n = 33) received LVAD support only and NHBDT group (n = 31) received concurrent NHBDT based on the clinical judgment of the attending physicians. Cardiac remodeling (echocardiographic parameters and biomarkers) and clinical outcome (functional status, HF-related hospital readmissions, and mortality) data were collected. A statistically significant increase in ejection fraction, decrease in LV end-diastolic diameter index and LV mass index, and a sustained reduction in N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP) were observed in the NHBDT group at 6 months after LVAD implant (p <0.05). NHBDT-treated patients experienced significantly greater improvement in New York Heart Association functional classification and 6-minute-walk distance throughout the study. The combined end point of cardiovascular death or HF hospitalization was significantly reduced in patients receiving NHBDT (p = 0.013) associated primarily with a 12.1% absolute reduction in HF-related hospitalizations (p = 0.046). In conclusion, NHBDT in LVAD-supported patients is associated with a significant reversal in adverse cardiac remodeling and a reduction in morbidity and mortality compared with LVAD support alone. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Substance P acting via the neurokinin-1 receptor regulates adverse myocardial remodeling in a rat model of hypertension

    PubMed Central

    Dehlin, Heather M.; Manteufel, Edward J.; Monroe, Andrew L.; Reimer, Michael H.; Levick, Scott P.

    2013-01-01

    Background Substance P is a sensory nerve neuropeptide located near coronary vessels in the heart. Therefore, substance P may be one of the first mediators released in the heart in response to hypertension, and can contribute to adverse myocardial remodeling via interactions with the neurokinin-1 receptor. We asked: 1) whether substance P promoted cardiac hypertrophy, including the expression of fetal genes known to be re-expressed during pathological hypertrophy; and 2) the extent to which substance P regulated collagen production and fibrosis. Methods and Results Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were treated with the neurokinin-1 receptor antagonist L732138 (5 mg/kg/d) from 8 to 24 weeks of age. Age-matched WKY served as controls. The gene encoding substance P, TAC1, was up-regulated as blood pressure increased in SHR. Fetal gene expression by cardiomyocytes was increased in SHR and was prevented by L732138. Cardiac fibrosis also occurred in the SHR and was prevented by L732138. Endothelin-1 was up-regulated in the SHR and this was prevented by L732138. In isolated cardiac fibroblasts, substance P transiently up-regulated several genes related to cell-cell adhesion, cell-matrix adhesion, and extracellular matrix regulation, however, no changes in fibroblast function were observed. Conclusions Substance P activation of the neurokinin-1 receptor induced expression of fetal genes related to pathological hypertrophy in the hypertensive heart. Additionally, activation of the neurokinin-1 receptor was critical to the development of cardiac fibrosis. Since no functional changes were induced in isolated cardiac fibroblasts by substance P, we conclude that substance P mediates fibrosis via up-regulation of endothelin-1. PMID:23962787

  8. Molecular cloning of a C-type lectin (LvLT) from the shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei: early gene down-regulation after WSSV infection.

    PubMed

    Ma, Tracy Hoi Tung; Tiu, Shirley Hiu Kwan; He, Jian-Guo; Chan, Siu-Ming

    2007-08-01

    C-type lectin is one of the pattern-recognition proteins of the non-self innate immune system in the invertebrates. In this study, a lectin-like cDNA (LvLT) of Litopenaeus vannamei was cloned and characterized. LvLT cDNA consists of 1035 nt encoding for a protein with 345 amino acid residues. The deduced LvLT consists of two putative carbohydrate-recognition domains (CRDs) as found in most C-type lectins. The first CRD consists of an amino acid motif (QPD) for the binding of galactose and the other CRDs consist of amino acid motifs (EPN) for the binding of mannose. Except for some conserved amino acid residues, the CRD of LvLT shared an overall low amino acid sequence identity with CRDs of other lectins. Unlike other shrimp lectins, LvLT is expressed only in the hepatopancreas but not in the hemocytes as revealed by RT-PCR. When juvenile shrimp were challenged with shrimp extracts containing white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), the expression levels of LvLT decreased initially in the first 2 h and then increased to a much higher level after 4 h. The results suggest that the initial reduction in LvLT transcript level may be related to the WSSV infection in shrimp.

  9. Callus remodelling model

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Miodowska, Justyna; Bielski, Jan; Kromka-Szydek, Magdalena

    2018-01-01

    The objective of this paper is to investigate the healing process of the callus using bone remodelling approach. A new mathematical model of bone remodelling is proposed including both underload and overload resorption, as well as equilibrium and bone growth states. The created model is used to predict the stress-stimulated change in the callus density. The permanent and intermittent loading programs are considered. The analyses indicate that obtaining a sufficiently high values of the callus density (and hence the elasticity) modulus is only possible using time-varying load parameters. The model predictions also show that intermittent loading program causes delayed callus healing. Understanding how mechanical conditions influence callus remodelling process may be relevant in the bone fracture treatment and initial bone loading during rehabilitation.

  10. Mitochondrial ROS Drive Sudden Cardiac Death and Chronic Proteome Remodeling in Heart Failure.

    PubMed

    Dey, Swati; DeMazumder, Deeptankar; Sidor, Agnieszka; Foster, D B; O'Rourke, Brian

    2018-06-13

    Rationale: Despite increasing prevalence and incidence of heart failure (HF), therapeutic options remain limited. In early stages of HF, sudden cardiac death (SCD) from ventricular arrhythmias claims many lives. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been implicated in both arrhythmias and contractile dysfunction. However, little is known about how ROS in specific subcellular compartments contribute to HF or SCD pathophysiology. The role of ROS in chronic proteome remodeling has not been explored. Objective: We will test the hypothesis that elevated mitochondrial ROS (mROS) is a principal source of oxidative stress in HF and in vivo reduction of mROS mitigates SCD. Methods and Results: Using a unique guinea pig model of non-ischemic HF that recapitulates important features of human HF, including prolonged QT interval and high incidence of spontaneous arrhythmic SCD. Compartment-specific ROS sensors revealed increased mROS in resting and contracting left ventricular (LV) myocytes in failing hearts. Importantly, mitochondrially-targeted antioxidant (MitoTEMPO) normalized global cellular ROS. Further, in vivo MitoTEMPO treatment of HF animals prevented and reversed HF; eliminated SCD by decreasing dispersion of repolarization and ventricular arrhythmias; suppressed chronic HF-induced remodeling of the expression proteome; and prevented specific phosphoproteome alterations. Pathway analysis of mROS-sensitive networks indicated that increased mROS in HF disrupts the normal coupling between cytosolic signals and nuclear gene programs driving mitochondrial function, antioxidant enzymes, Ca2+ handling and action potential repolarization, suggesting new targets for therapeutic intervention. Conclusions: mROS drive both acute emergent events, such as electrical instability responsibly for SCD, and those that mediate chronic HF remodeling, characterized by suppression or altered phosphorylation of metabolic, antioxidant and ion transport protein networks. In vivo reduction of m

  11. LV dyssynchrony as assessed by phase analysis of gated SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.

    PubMed

    Chen, Chun; Li, Dianfu; Miao, Changqing; Feng, Jianlin; Zhou, Yanli; Cao, Kejiang; Lloyd, Michael S; Chen, Ji

    2012-07-01

    The purpose of this study was to evaluate left ventricular (LV) mechanical dyssynchrony in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome pre- and post-radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFA) using phase analysis of gated single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). Forty-five WPW patients were enrolled and had gated SPECT MPI pre- and 2-3 days post-RFA. Electrophysiological study (EPS) was used to locate accessory pathways (APs) and categorize the patients according to the AP locations (septal, left and right free wall). Electrocardiography (ECG) was performed pre- and post-RFA to confirm successful elimination of the APs. Phase analysis of gated SPECT MPI was used to assess LV dyssynchrony pre- and post-RFA. Among the 45 patients, 3 had gating errors, and thus 42 had SPECT phase analysis. Twenty-two patients (52.4%) had baseline LV dyssynchrony. Baseline LV dyssynchrony was more prominent in the patients with septal APs than in the patients with left or right APs (p < 0.05). RFA improved LV synchrony in the entire cohort and in the patients with septal APs (p < 0.01). Phase analysis of gated SPECT MPI demonstrated that LV mechanical dyssynchrony can be present in patients with WPW syndrome. Septal APs result in the greatest degree of LV mechanical dyssynchrony and afford the most benefit after RFA. This study supports further investigation in the relationship between electrical and mechanical activation using EPS and phase analysis of gated SPECT MPI.

  12. Evaluation of a novel nested PCR for the routine diagnosis of feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).

    PubMed

    Arjona, Alvaro; Barquero, Nuria; Doménech, Ana; Tejerizo, German; Collado, Victorio M; Toural, Cristina; Martín, Daniel; Gomez-Lucia, Esperanza

    2007-02-01

    Laboratory diagnosis of feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) usually involves both viruses, as the clinical signs are similar and coinfection may occur. Serological methods may not represent an accurate diagnosis: maternal antibodies or cross-reactions may give false positive results to FIV, and false negative results may occur in latent FeLV status, or in certain FIV infection stages. A nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique was designed to detect FeLV, FIV and feline endogenous retrovirus simultaneously. The detection of endogenous sequences was considered indicative of successful DNA extraction. The technique was used to diagnose FIV and FeLV in the blood cells of 179 cats. The kappa value with the serological data was 0.69 for FeLV and 0.87 for FIV. The joint detection of FeLV and FIV by this novel nested PCR is sensitive, specific, fast and convenient, and its applicability for clinical diagnosis is promising, as the direct evidence of the presence of the virus is more realistic than the indirect data provided by the serological detection.

  13. [Integripetal rhodiola herb attenuates high altitude-induced pulmonary arterial remodeling and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in rats].

    PubMed

    Bai, Ma-Kang-Zhuo; Guo, Yan; Bian, Ba-Dun-Zhu; Dong, Hai; Wang, Tao; Luo, Feng; Wen, Fu-Qiang; Cui, Chao-Ying

    2011-04-25

    The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of integripetal rhodiola herb on pulmonary arterial remodeling and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in high altitude pulmonary hypertension in rats. Fifty healthy male Wistar rats were divided into five groups randomly: Plain control group (LC group), 10-day plateau group (H(10) group), 30-day plateau group (H(30) group), 10-day rhodiola-treated plateau group (R(10) group), and 30-day rhodiola-treated plateau group (R(30) group). Each group included 10 rats. The rats in LC group were kept in Chengdu (500 meters above sea level), and rats in H and R groups were kept in Lhasa (3 700 meters above sea level). The rats in R group were daily treated with integripetal rhodiola herb extract (24%, 10 mL/kg) intragastrically for 10 d or 30 d, while rats in LC and H groups were treated with the same volume of saline. Mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) was detected via a catheter in the pulmonary artery by pressure waveform monitoring. The ratio value of right ventricle weight to left ventricle plus septum weight [RV/(LV + S)] was measured. The microstructure of pulmonary arterioles was examined by electron microscopy. The expression of VEGF in the lung was investigated using immunohistochemistry. The results showed that mPAP and [RV/(LV + S)] in H(10) group and H(30) group were higher than those in LC group (P < 0.05); but there was no significant difference between H(10) group and R(10) group (P < 0.05); and mPAP and [RV/(LV + S)] in H(30) group were lower than those in H(30) group (P < 0.05). Electron microscopy showed that compared to LC group, arteriolar endothelial cells were arranged in a columnar or palisading form, protruding into the lumen, accompanied with luminal stenosis, irregular internal elastic membrane, and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells in H groups, which was more obvious in H(30) group than in H(10) group; while these pathological changes were attenuated in the R

  14. Time Course of Atrophic Remodeling: Effects of Exercise on Cardiac Morpology and Function

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Scott, J. M.; Martin, D.; Caine, T.; Matz, T.; Ploutz-Snyder, L. L.

    2014-01-01

    Early and consistent evaluation of cardiac morphology and function throughout an atrophic stimulus is critically important for the design and optimization of interventions. Exercise training is one intervention that has been shown to confer favorable improvements in LV mass and function during unloading. However, the format and intensity of exercise required to induce optimal cardiac improvements has not been investigated. PURPOSE: This randomized, controlled trial was designed to 1) comprehensively characterize the time course of unloading-induced morpho-functional remodeling, and 2) examine the effects of high intensity exercise training on cardiac structural and functional parameters during unloading. METHODS: Twenty six subjects completed 70 days of head down tilt bed rest (HDBR): 17 were randomized to exercise training (ExBR) and 9 remained sedentary. Exercise consisted of integrated high intensity, continuous, and resistance exercise. We assessed cardiac morphology (left ventricular mass; LVM) and function (speckle-tracking assessment of longitudinal, radial, and circumferential strain and twist) before (BR-2), during (BR7,21,31,70), and following (BR+0, +3) HDBR. Cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) was evaluated before (BR- 3), during (BR4,25,46,68) and following (BR+0) HDBR. RESULTS: Sedentary HDBR resulted in a progressive decline in LVM, longitudinal, radial, and circumferential strain, and an increase in twist. ExBR mitigated decreases in LVM and function. Change in twist was significantly related to change in VO2max (R=0.68, p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Alterations in cardiac morphology and function begin early during unloading. High-intensity exercise attenuates atrophic morphological and functional remodeling.

  15. Ideal Cardiovascular Health, Cardiovascular Remodeling, and Heart Failure in African-Americans: the Jackson Heart Study

    PubMed Central

    Spahillari, Aferdita; Talegawkar, Sameera; Correa, Adolfo; Carr, J. Jeffrey; Terry, James G.; Lima, Joao; Freedman, Jane E.; Das, Saumya; Kociol, Robb; de Ferranti, Sarah; Mohebali, Donya; Mwasongwe, Stanford; Tucker, Katherine L.; Murthy, Venkatesh L.; Shah, Ravi V.

    2017-01-01

    Background The lifetime risk of heart failure is higher in the African-American population than in other racial groups in the United States. Methods and Results We measured the Life’s Simple 7 ideal cardiovascular health metrics in 4195 African-Americans in the Jackson Heart Study (2000–2004). We evaluated the association of Simple 7 metrics with incident HF and left ventricular (LV) structure and function by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR; n=1188). Mean age at baseline was 54.4 years (65% women). Relative to 0–2 Simple 7 factors, African-Americans with 3 factors had 47% lower incident HF risk (HR 0.53, 95% CI 0.39–0.73, P<0.0001); those with ≥ 4 factors had 61% lower HF risk (HR 0.39, 95% CI 0.24–0.64, P=0.0002). Higher blood pressure (HR 2.32, 95% CI 1.28–4.20, P=0.005), physical inactivity (HR 1.65, 95% CI 1.07–2.55, P=0.02), smoking (HR 2.04, 95% CI 1.43–2.91, P<0.0001) and impaired glucose control (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.34–2.29, P<0.0001) were associated with incident HF. The age-/sex-adjusted population attributable risk for these Simple 7 metrics combined was 37.1%. Achievement of ideal blood pressure, ideal body mass index, ideal glucose control, and non-smoking was associated with less likelihood of adverse cardiac remodeling by CMR. Conclusions Cardiovascular risk factors in mid-life (specifically elevated blood pressure, physical inactivity, smoking and poor glucose control) are associated with incident HF in African Americans, and represent targets for intensified HF prevention. PMID:28209767

  16. Disorders of Bone Remodeling

    PubMed Central

    Feng, Xu; McDonald, Jay M.

    2013-01-01

    The skeleton provides mechanical support for stature and locomotion, protects vital organs, and controls mineral homeostasis. A healthy skeleton must be maintained by constant bone modeling to carry out these crucial functions throughout life. Bone remodeling involves the removal of old or damaged bone by osteoclasts (bone resorption) and the subsequent replacement of new bone formed by osteoblasts (bone formation). Normal bone remodeling requires a tight coupling of bone resorption to bone formation to guarantee no alteration in bone mass or quality after each remodeling cycle. However, this important physiological process can be derailed by a variety of factors, including menopause-associated hormonal changes, age-related factors, changes in physical activity, drugs, and secondary diseases, which lead to the development of various bone disorders in both women and men. We review the major diseases of bone remodeling, emphasizing our current understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. PMID:20936937

  17. The frequency of occurrence and nature of recombinant feline leukemia viruses in the induction of multicentric lymphoma by infection of the domestic cat with FeLV-945.

    PubMed

    Ahmad, Shamim; Levy, Laura S

    2010-08-01

    During feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection in the domestic cat, viruses with a novel envelope gene arise by recombination between endogenous FeLV-related elements and the exogenous infecting species. These recombinant viruses (FeLV-B) are of uncertain disease association, but have been linked to the induction of thymic lymphoma. To assess the role of FeLV-B in the induction of multicentric lymphoma and other non-T-cell disease, the frequency of occurrence and nature of FeLV-B were examined in diseased tissues from a large collection of FeLV-infected animals. Diseased tissues were examined by Southern blot and PCR amplification to detect the presence of FeLV-B. Further analysis was performed to establish the recombination junctions and infectivity of FeLV-B in diseased tissues. The results confirmed the frequent association of FeLV-B with thymic lymphoma but showed infrequent generation, low levels and lack of infectivity of FeLV-B in non-T-cell diseases including multicentric lymphoma.

  18. Epicatechin as a Therapeutic Strategy to Mitigate the Development of Cardiac Remodeling and Fibrosis

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2017-09-01

    Currently, no drugs target HFpEF and the development of animal models can assist in therapy evaluation. We developed a female rat model of aging...allocated into an aging group, aging + ovariectomy and aging + ovariectomy + 10% fructose in drinking water. At 22 months of age, animals were...epicatechin (Epi) will ameliorate adverse tissue remodeling and cardiac fibrosis in female animal models developing diastolic dysfunction as seen in women

  19. The Post-Myocardial Infarction Pacing Remodeling Prevention Therapy (PRomPT) Trial: Design and Rationale.

    PubMed

    Chung, Eugene S; Fischer, Trent M; Kueffer, Fred; Anand, Inder S; Bax, Jeroen J; Gold, Michael R; Gorman, Robert C; Theres, Heinz; Udelson, James E; Stancak, Branislav; Svendsen, Jesper H; Stone, Gregg W; Leon, Angel

    2015-07-01

    Despite considerable improvements in the medical management of patients with myocardial infarction (MI), patients with large MI still have substantial risk of developing heart failure. In the early post-MI setting, implantable cardioverter defibrillators have reduced arrhythmic deaths but have no impact on overall mortality. Therefore, additional interventions are required to further reduce the overall morbidity and mortality of patients with large MI. The Pacing Remodeling Prevention Therapy (PRomPT) trial is designed to study the effects of peri-infarct pacing in preventing adverse post-MI remodeling. Up to 120 subjects with peak creatine phosphokinase >3,000 U/L (or troponin T >10 μg/L) at time of MI will be randomized to either dual-site or single-site biventricular pacing with the left ventricular lead implanted in a peri-infarct region or to a nonimplanted control group. Those randomized to a device will be blinded to the pacing mode, but randomization to a device or control cannot be blinded. Subjects randomized to pacing will have the device implanted within 10 days of MI. The primary objective is to assess the change in left ventricular end-diastolic volume from baseline to 18 months. Secondary objectives are to assess changes in clinical and mechanistic parameters between the groups, including rates of hospitalization for heart failure and cardiovascular events, the incidence of sudden cardiac death and all-cause mortality, New York Heart Association functional class, 6-minute walking distance, and quality of life. The PRomPT trial will provide important evidence regarding the potential of peri-infarct pacing to interrupt adverse remodeling in patients with large MI. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Matrix metalloproteinases and their tissue inhibitor after reperfused ST-elevation myocardial infarction treated with doxycycline. Insights from the TIPTOP trial.

    PubMed

    Cerisano, Giampaolo; Buonamici, Piergiovanni; Gori, Anna Maria; Valenti, Renato; Sciagrà, Roberto; Giusti, Betti; Sereni, Alice; Raspanti, Silvia; Colonna, Paolo; Gensini, Gian Franco; Abbate, Rosanna; Schulz, Richard; Antoniucci, David

    2015-10-15

    The TIPTOP (Early Short-term Doxycycline Therapy In Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction and Left Ventricular Dysfunction to Prevent The Ominous Progression to Adverse Remodelling) trial demonstrated that a timely, short-term therapy with doxycycline is able to reduce LV dilation, and both infarct size and severity in patients treated with primary percutaneous intervention (pPCI) for a first ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. In this secondary, pre-defined analysis of the TIPTOP trial we evaluated the relationship between doxycycline and plasma levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs). In 106 of the 110 (96%) patients enrolled in the TIPTOP trial, plasma MMPs and TIMPs were measured at baseline, and at post-STEMI days 1, 7, 30 and 180. To evaluate the remodeling process, 2D-Echo studies were performed at baseline and at 6months. A (99m)Tc-SPECT was performed to evaluate the 6-month infarct size and severity. Doxycycline therapy was independently related to higher plasma TIMP-2 levels at day 7 (p<0.05). Plasma TIMP-2 levels above the median value at day 7 were correlated with the 6-month smaller infarct size (3% [0%-16%] vs. 12% [0%-30%], p=0.002) and severity (0.55 [0.44-0.64] vs. 0.45 [0.29-0.60], p=0.002), and LV dilation (-1ml/m(2) [from -7ml/m(2) to 9ml/m(2)] vs. 3ml/m(2) [from -2ml/m(2) to 19ml/m(2)], p=0.04), compared to their counterpart. In this clinical setting, doxycycline therapy results in higher plasma levels of TIMP-2 which, in turn, inversely correlate with 6month infarct size and severity as well as LV dilation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Cellular entry via an actin and clathrin-dependent route is required for Lv2 restriction of HIV-2.

    PubMed

    Harrison, I P; McKnight, A

    2011-06-20

    Lv2 is a human factor that restricts infection of some HIV-2 viruses after entry into particular target cells. HIV-2 MCR is highly susceptible to Lv2 whereas HIV-2 MCN is not. The block is after reverse transcription but prior to nuclear entry. The viral determinants for this restriction have been mapped to the HIV-2 envelope and the capsid genes. Our model of Lv2 restriction suggests that the route taken into a cell is important in determining whether a productive infection occurs. Here we characterised the infectious routes used by MCN and MCR using chemical compounds and molecular techniques to distinguish between potential pathways. Our results suggest that susceptible MCR can enter restrictive HeLa(CD4) cells via two pathways; a clathrin/AP2 mediated endocytic route that is sensitive to Lv2 restriction and an alternative, non-clathrin mediated route, which results in more efficient infection. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. LV dyssynchrony as assessed by phase analysis of gated SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Chun; Miao, Changqing; Feng, Jianlin; Zhou, Yanli; Cao, Kejiang; Lloyd, Michael S.; Chen, Ji

    2013-01-01

    Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate left ventricular (LV) mechanical dyssynchrony in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome pre- and post-radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFA) using phase analysis of gated single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). Methods Forty-five WPW patients were enrolled and had gated SPECT MPI pre- and 2–3 days post-RFA. Electrophysiological study (EPS) was used to locate accessory pathways (APs) and categorize the patients according to the AP locations (septal, left and right free wall). Electrocardiography (ECG) was performed pre- and post-RFA to confirm successful elimination of the APs. Phase analysis of gated SPECT MPI was used to assess LV dyssynchrony pre- and post-RFA. Results Among the 45 patients, 3 had gating errors, and thus 42 had SPECT phase analysis. Twenty-two patients (52.4 %) had baseline LV dyssynchrony. Baseline LV dyssynchrony was more prominent in the patients with septal APs than in the patients with left or right APs (p<0.05). RFA improved LV synchrony in the entire cohort and in the patients with septal APs (p<0.01). Conclusion Phase analysis of gated SPECT MPI demonstrated that LV mechanical dyssynchrony can be present in patients with WPW syndrome. Septal APs result in the greatest degree of LV mechanical dyssynchrony and afford the most benefit after RFA. This study supports further investigation in the relationship between electrical and mechanical activation using EPS and phase analysis of gated SPECT MPI. PMID:22532253

  3. Feasibility of rapid and automated importation of 3D echocardiographic left ventricular (LV) geometry into a finite element (FEM) analysis model

    PubMed Central

    Verhey, Janko F; Nathan, Nadia S

    2004-01-01

    Background Finite element method (FEM) analysis for intraoperative modeling of the left ventricle (LV) is presently not possible. Since 3D structural data of the LV is now obtainable using standard transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) devices intraoperatively, the present study describes a method to transfer this data into a commercially available FEM analysis system: ABAQUS©. Methods In this prospective study TomTec LV Analysis TEE© Software was used for semi-automatic endocardial border detection, reconstruction, and volume-rendering of the clinical 3D echocardiographic data. A newly developed software program MVCP FemCoGen©, written in Delphi, reformats the TomTec file structures in five patients for use in ABAQUS and allows visualization of regional deformation of the LV. Results This study demonstrates that a fully automated importation of 3D TEE data into FEM modeling is feasible and can be efficiently accomplished in the operating room. Conclusion For complete intraoperative 3D LV finite element analysis, three input elements are necessary: 1. time-gaited, reality-based structural information, 2. continuous LV pressure and 3. instantaneous tissue elastance. The first of these elements is now available using the methods presented herein. PMID:15473901

  4. Relationship between echocardiographic LV mass and ECG based left ventricular voltages in an adolescent population: related or random?

    PubMed

    Czosek, Richard J; Cnota, James F; Knilans, Timothy K; Pratt, Jesse; Guerrier, Karine; Anderson, Jeffrey B

    2014-09-01

    In attempts to detect diseases that may place adolescents at risk for sudden death, some have advocated for population-based screening. Controversy exists over electrocardiography (ECG) screening due to the lack of specificity, cost, and detrimental effects of false positive or extraneous outcomes. Analyze the relationship between precordial lead voltage on ECG and left ventricle (LV) mass by echocardiogram in adolescent athletes. Retrospective cohort analysis of a prospectively obtained population of self-identified adolescent athletes during sports screening with ECG and echocardiogram. Correlation between ECG LV voltages (R wave in V6 [RV6] and S wave in lead V1 [SV1]) was compared to echocardiogram-based measurements of left ventricular mass. Potential effects on ECG voltages by body anthropometrics, including weight, body mass index (BMI), and body surface area were analyzed, and ECG voltages indexed to BMI were compared to LV mass indices to analyze for improved correlation. A total of 659 adolescents enrolled in this study (64% male). The mean age was 15.4 years (14-18). The correlations between LV mass and RV6, SV1, and RV6 + SV1 were all less than 0.20. The false positive rate for abnormal voltages was relatively high (5.5%) but improved if abnormal voltages in both RV6 and SV1 were mandated simultaneously (0%). Indexing ECG voltages to BMI significantly improved correlation to LV mass, though false positive findings were increased (12.9%). There is poor correlation between ECG precordial voltages and echocardiographic LV mass. This relationship is modified by BMI. This finding may contribute to the poor ECG screening characteristics. ©2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  5. Right ventricular relative wall thickness as a predictor of outcomes and of right ventricular reverse remodeling for patients with pulmonary hypertension.

    PubMed

    Sano, Hiroyuki; Tanaka, Hidekazu; Motoji, Yoshiki; Fukuda, Yuko; Mochizuki, Yasuhide; Hatani, Yutaka; Matsuzoe, Hiroki; Hatazawa, Keiko; Shimoura, Hiroyuki; Ooka, Junichi; Ryo-Koriyama, Keiko; Nakayama, Kazuhiko; Matsumoto, Kensuke; Emoto, Noriaki; Hirata, Ken-Ichi

    2017-03-01

    Mid-term right ventricular (RV) reverse remodeling after treatment in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) is associated with long-term outcome as well as baseline RV remodeling. However, baseline factors influencing mid-term RV reverse remodeling after treatment and its prognostic capability remain unclear. We studied 54 PH patients. Mid-term RV remodeling was assessed in terms of the RV area, which was traced planimetrically at the end-systole (RVESA). RV reverse remodeling was defined as a relative decrease in the RVESA of at least 15% at 10.2 ± 9.4 months after treatment. Long-term follow-up was 5 years. Adverse events occurred in ten patients (19%) and mid-term RV reverse remodeling after treatment was observed in 37 (69%). Patients with mid-term RV reverse remodeling had more favorable long-term outcomes than those without (log-rank: p = 0.01). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that RV relative wall thickness (RV-RWT), as calculated as RV free-wall thickness/RV basal linear dimension at end-diastole, was an independent predictor of mid-term RV reverse remodeling (OR 1.334; 95% CI, 1.039-1.713; p = 0.03). Moreover, patients with RV-RWT ≥0.21 showed better long-term outcomes than did those without (log-rank p = 0.03), while those with RV-RWT ≥0.21 and mid-term RV reverse remodeling had the best long-term outcomes. Patients with RV-RWT <0.21 and without mid-term RV reverse remodeling, on the other hand, had worse long-term outcomes than other sub-groups. In conclusions, RV-RWT could predict mid-term RV reverse remodeling after treatment in PH patients, and was associated with long-term outcomes. Our finding may have clinical implications for better management of PH patients.

  6. Three‐dimensional myocardial scarring along myofibers after coronary ischemia–reperfusion revealed by computerized images of histological assays

    PubMed Central

    Katz, Monica Y.; Kusakari, Yoichiro; Aoyagi, Hiroko; Higa, Jason K.; Xiao, Chun‐Yang; Abdelkarim, Ahmed Z.; Marh, Karra; Aoyagi, Toshinori; Rosenzweig, Anthony; Lozanoff, Scott; Matsui, Takashi

    2014-01-01

    Abstract Adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling after acute myocardial infarction is characterized by LV dilatation and development of a fibrotic scar, and is a critical factor for the prognosis of subsequent development of heart failure. Although myofiber organization is recognized as being important for preserving physiological cardiac function and structure, the anatomical features of injured myofibers during LV remodeling have not been fully defined. In a mouse model of ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury induced by left anterior descending coronary artery ligation, our previous histological assays demonstrated that broad fibrotic scarring extended from the initial infarct zone to the remote zone, and was clearly demarcated along midcircumferential myofibers. Additionally, no fibrosis was observed in longitudinal myofibers in the subendocardium and subepicardium. However, a histological analysis of tissue sections does not adequately indicate myofiber injury distribution throughout the entire heart. To address this, we investigated patterns of scar formation along myofibers using three‐dimensional (3D) images obtained from multiple tissue sections from mouse hearts subjected to I/R injury. The fibrotic scar area observed in the 3D images was consistent with the distribution of the midcircumferential myofibers. At the apex, the scar formation tracked along the myofibers in an incomplete C‐shaped ring that converged to a triangular shape toward the end. Our findings suggest that myocyte injury after transient coronary ligation extends along myofibers, rather than following the path of coronary arteries penetrating the myocardium. The injury pattern observed along myofibers after I/R injury could be used to predict prognoses for patients with myocardial infarction. PMID:25347856

  7. The surface glycoprotein of feline leukemia virus isolate FeLV-945 is a determinant of altered pathogenesis in the presence or absence of the unique viral long terminal repeat.

    PubMed

    Bolin, Lisa L; Ahmad, Shamim; Lobelle-Rich, Patricia A; Ooms, Tara G; Alvarez-Hernandez, Xavier; Didier, Peter J; Levy, Laura S

    2013-10-01

    Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a naturally transmitted gammaretrovirus that infects domestic cats. FeLV-945, the predominant isolate associated with non-T-cell disease in a natural cohort, is a member of FeLV subgroup A but differs in sequence from the FeLV-A prototype, FeLV-A/61E, in the surface glycoprotein (SU) and long terminal repeat (LTR). Substitution of the FeLV-945 LTR into FeLV-A/61E resulted in pathogenesis indistinguishable from that of FeLV-A/61E, namely, thymic lymphoma of T-cell origin. In contrast, substitution of both FeLV-945 LTR and SU into FeLV-A/61E resulted in multicentric lymphoma of non-T-cell origin. These results implicated the FeLV-945 SU as a determinant of pathogenic spectrum. The present study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that FeLV-945 SU can act in the absence of other unique sequence elements of FeLV-945 to determine the disease spectrum. Substitution of FeLV-A/61E SU with that of FeLV-945 altered the clinical presentation and resulted in tumors that demonstrated expression of CD45R in the presence or absence of CD3. Despite the evident expression of CD45R, a typical B-cell marker, T-cell receptor beta (TCRβ) gene rearrangement indicated a T-cell origin. Tumor cells were detectable in bone marrow and blood at earlier times during the disease process, and the predominant SU genes from proviruses integrated in tumor DNA carried markers of genetic recombination. The findings demonstrate that FeLV-945 SU alters pathogenesis, although incompletely, in the absence of FeLV-945 LTR. Evidence demonstrates that FeLV-945 SU and LTR are required together to fully recapitulate the distinctive non-T-cell disease outcome seen in the natural cohort.

  8. Spontaneous, L-arginine-induced and spironolactone-induced regression of protein remodeling of the left ventricle in L-NAME-induced hypertension.

    PubMed

    Simko, F; Potácová, A; Pelouch, V; Paulis, L; Matúsková, J; Krajcírovicová, K; Pechánová, O; Adamcová, M

    2007-01-01

    N(G)-nitro-L-arginine-methyl ester (L-NAME)-induced hypertension is associated with protein remodeling of the left ventricle. The aim of the study was to show, whether aldosterone receptor blocker spironolactone and precursor of NO-production L-arginine were able to reverse the protein rebuilding of the left ventricle. Six groups of male Wistar rats were investigated: control 4 (4 weeks placebo), L-NAME (4 weeks L-NAME), spontaneous-regression (4 weeks L-NAME + 3 weeks placebo), spironolactone-regression (4 weeks L-NAME + 3 weeks spironolactone), L-arginine-regression (4 weeks L-NAME + 3 weeks arginine), control 7 (7 weeks placebo). L-NAME administration induced hypertension, hypertrophy of the left ventricle (LV), and the increase of metabolic and contractile as well as soluble and insoluble collagenous protein concentration. The systolic blood pressure and relative weight of the LV decreased in all three groups with regression, while the most prominent attenuation of the LVH was observed after spironolactone treatment. In the spontaneous-regression and L-arginine-regression groups the concentrations of individual proteins were not significantly different from the control value. However, in the spironolactone-regression group the concentration of metabolic, contractile and insoluble collagenous proteins remained significantly increased in comparison with the control group. The persistence of the increased protein concentration in the spironolactone group may be related to the more prominent reduction of myocardial water content by spironolactone.

  9. Saxagliptin and Tadalafil Differentially Alter Cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP) Signaling and Left Ventricular Function in Aortic-Banded Mini-Swine.

    PubMed

    Hiemstra, Jessica A; Lee, Dong I; Chakir, Khalid; Gutiérrez-Aguilar, Manuel; Marshall, Kurt D; Zgoda, Pamela J; Cruz Rivera, Noelany; Dozier, Daniel G; Ferguson, Brian S; Heublein, Denise M; Burnett, John C; Scherf, Carolin; Ivey, Jan R; Minervini, Gianmaria; McDonald, Kerry S; Baines, Christopher P; Krenz, Maike; Domeier, Timothy L; Emter, Craig A

    2016-04-20

    Cyclic guanosine monophosphate-protein kinase G-phosphodiesterase 5 signaling may be disturbed in heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction, contributing to cardiac remodeling and dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to manipulate cyclic guanosine monophosphate signaling using the dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 inhibitor saxagliptin and phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor tadalafil. We hypothesized that preservation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate cGMP signaling would attenuate pathological cardiac remodeling and improve left ventricular (LV) function. We assessed LV hypertrophy and function at the organ and cellular level in aortic-banded pigs. Concentric hypertrophy was equal in all groups, but LV collagen deposition was increased in only HF animals. Prevention of fibrotic remodeling by saxagliptin and tadalafil was correlated with neuropeptide Y plasma levels. Saxagliptin better preserved integrated LV systolic and diastolic function by maintaining normal LV chamber volumes and contractility (end-systolic pressure-volume relationship, preload recruitable SW) while preventing changes to early/late diastolic longitudinal strain rate. Function was similar to the HF group in tadalafil-treated animals including increased LV contractility, reduced chamber volume, and decreased longitudinal, circumferential, and radial mechanics. Saxagliptin and tadalafil prevented a negative cardiomyocyte shortening-frequency relationship observed in HF animals. Saxagliptin increased phosphodiesterase 5 activity while tadalafil increased cyclic guanosine monophosphate levels; however, neither drug increased downstream PKG activity. Early mitochondrial dysfunction, evident as decreased calcium-retention capacity and Complex II-dependent respiratory control, was present in both HF and tadalafil-treated animals. Both saxagliptin and tadalafil prevented increased LV collagen deposition in a manner related to the attenuation of increased plasma neuropeptide Y levels. Saxagliptin

  10. Effect of streptozotocin-induced diabetes on left ventricular function in adult rats: an in vivo Pinhole Gated SPECT study

    PubMed Central

    Cosyns, Bernard; Droogmans, Steven; Weytjens, Caroline; Lahoutte, Tony; Van Camp, Guy; Schoors, Danny; Franken, Philippe R

    2007-01-01

    Background Recent studies have suggested that diabetes mellitus (DM) may cause left ventricular (LV) dysfunction directly resulting in increased susceptibility to heart failure. Using pinhole collimators and advances in data processing, gated SPECT was recently adapted to image the rat heart. The present study was aimed to assess this new imaging technique for quantifying LV function and remodeling from the Streptozotocin (STZ) rat model compared to controls. Methods Twenty one rats were randomly assigned to control or diabetic group. Six months after the induction of diabetes by STZ, Pinhole 99 m Tc-sestamibi gated SPECT was performed for determining rat LV volumes and function. Post-mortem histopathologic analysis was performed to evaluate the determinant of LV remodeling in this model. Results After six months, the normalized to body weight LV End-systolic volume was significantly different in diabetic rats compared to controls (0.46 ± 0.02 vs 0.33 ± 0.03 μL/g; p = 0.01). The normalized LV End-diastolic volume was also different in both groups (1.51 ± 0.03 vs 0.88 ± 0.05 μL/g; p = 0.001) and the normalized stroke volume was significantly higher in STZ-rats (1.05 ± 0.02 vs 0.54 ± 0.06 μL/g; p = 0.001). The muscular fibers were thinner at histology in the diabetic rats (0.44 ± 0.07 vs 0.32 ± 0.06 AU; p = 0.01). Conclusion Pinhole 99 m Tc-sestamibi gated SPECT can successfully be applied for the evaluation of cardiac function and remodeling in STZ-induced diabetic rats. In this model, LV volumes were significantly changed compared to a control population, leading to a LV dysfunction. These findings were consistent with the histopathological abnormalities. Finally, these data further suggest the presence of diabetes cardiomyopathy. PMID:17937784

  11. Cardiac remodelling in a baboon model of intrauterine growth restriction mimics accelerated ageing.

    PubMed

    Kuo, Anderson H; Li, Cun; Li, Jinqi; Huber, Hillary F; Nathanielsz, Peter W; Clarke, Geoffrey D

    2017-02-15

    and sex (with P < 0.05) indicated ejection fraction, 3D sphericity indices, cardiac index, normalized systolic volume, normalized LV wall thickness, and average filling rate differed by group. Group and sex differences were found for normalized LV wall thickening and normalized myocardial mass, without interactions. Normalized peak LV filling rate and diastolic sphericity index were not correlated in control but strongly correlated in OLD and IUGR baboons. IUGR programming in baboons produces myocardial remodelling, reduces systolic and diastolic function, and results in the emergence of a premature ageing phenotype in the heart. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of the specific characteristics of cardiac programming and early life functional decline with ageing in an IUGR non-human primate model. Further studies across the life span will determine progression of cardiac dysfunction. © 2016 The Authors. The Journal of Physiology © 2016 The Physiological Society.

  12. Tests of a High Temperature Sample Conditioner for the Waste Treatment Plant LV-S2, LV-S3, HV-S3A and HV-S3B Exhaust Systems

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Flaherty, Julia E.; Glissmeyer, John A.

    2015-03-18

    Tests were performed to evaluate a sample conditioning unit for stack monitoring at Hanford Tank Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant (WTP) exhaust stacks with elevated air temperatures. The LV-S2, LV-S3, HV-S3A and HV-S3B exhaust stacks are expected to have elevated air temperature and dew point. At these emission points, exhaust temperatures are too high to deliver the air sample directly to the required stack monitoring equipment. As a result, a sample conditioning system is considered to cool and dry the air prior to its delivery to the stack monitoring system. The method proposed for the sample conditioning is a dilutionmore » system that will introduce cooler, dry air to the air sample stream. This method of sample conditioning is meant to reduce the sample temperature while avoiding condensation of moisture in the sample stream. An additional constraint is that the ANSI/HPS N13.1-1999 standard states that at least 50% of the 10 μm aerodynamic diameter (AD) particles present in the stack free stream must be delivered to the sample collector. In other words, depositional loss of particles should be limited to 50% in the sampling, transport, and conditioning systems. Based on estimates of particle penetration through the LV-S3 sampling system, the diluter should perform with about 80% penetration or better to ensure that the total sampling system passes the 50% or greater penetration criterion.« less

  13. Angiotensin-converting enzyme and matrix metalloproteinase inhibition with developing heart failure: comparative effects on left ventricular function and geometry

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    McElmurray, J. H. 3rd; Mukherjee, R.; New, R. B.; Sampson, A. C.; King, M. K.; Hendrick, J. W.; Goldberg, A.; Peterson, T. J.; Hallak, H.; Zile, M. R.; hide

    1999-01-01

    The progression of congestive heart failure (CHF) is left ventricular (LV) myocardial remodeling. The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) contribute to tissue remodeling and therefore MMP inhibition may serve as a useful therapeutic target in CHF. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition favorably affects LV myocardial remodeling in CHF. This study examined the effects of specific MMP inhibition, ACE inhibition, and combined treatment on LV systolic and diastolic function in a model of CHF. Pigs were randomly assigned to five groups: 1) rapid atrial pacing (240 beats/min) for 3 weeks (n = 8); 2) ACE inhibition (fosinopril, 2.5 mg/kg b.i.d. orally) and rapid pacing (n = 8); 3) MMP inhibition (PD166793 2 mg/kg/day p.o.) and rapid pacing (n = 8); 4) combined ACE and MMP inhibition (2.5 mg/kg b.i.d. and 2 mg/kg/day, respectively) and rapid pacing (n = 8); and 5) controls (n = 9). LV peak wall stress increased by 2-fold with rapid pacing and was reduced in all treatment groups. LV fractional shortening fell by nearly 2-fold with rapid pacing and increased in all treatment groups. The circumferential fiber shortening-systolic stress relation was reduced with rapid pacing and increased in the ACE inhibition and combination groups. LV myocardial stiffness constant was unchanged in the rapid pacing group, increased nearly 2-fold in the MMP inhibition group, and was normalized in the ACE inhibition and combination treatment groups. Increased MMP activation contributes to the LV dilation and increased wall stress with pacing CHF and a contributory downstream mechanism of ACE inhibition is an effect on MMP activity.

  14. Zygotic LvBMP5-8 is required for skeletal patterning and for left-right but not dorsal-ventral specification in the sea urchin embryo.

    PubMed

    Piacentino, Michael L; Chung, Oliver; Ramachandran, Janani; Zuch, Daniel T; Yu, Jia; Conaway, Evan A; Reyna, Arlene E; Bradham, Cynthia A

    2016-04-01

    Skeletal patterning in the sea urchin embryo requires coordinated signaling between the pattern-dictating ectoderm and the skeletogenic primary mesenchyme cells (PMCs); recent studies have begun to uncover the molecular basis for this process. Using an unbiased RNA-Seq-based screen, we have previously identified the TGF-ß superfamily ligand, LvBMP5-8, as a skeletal patterning gene in Lytechinus variegatus embryos. This result is surprising, since both BMP5-8 and BMP2/4 ligands have been implicated in sea urchin dorsal-ventral (DV) and left-right (LR) axis specification. Here, we demonstrate that zygotic LvBMP5-8 is required for normal skeletal patterning on the left side, as well as for normal PMC positioning during gastrulation. Zygotic LvBMP5-8 is required for expression of the left-side marker soxE, suggesting that LvBMP5-8 is required for left-side specification. Interestingly, we also find that LvBMP5-8 knockdown suppresses serotonergic neurogenesis on the left side. While LvBMP5-8 overexpression is sufficient to dorsalize embryos, we find that zygotic LvBMP5-8 is not required for normal DV specification or development. In addition, ectopic LvBMP5-8 does not dorsalize LvBMP2/4 morphant embryos, indicating that, in the absence of BMP2/4, BMP5-8 is insufficient to specify dorsal. Taken together, our data demonstrate that zygotic LvBMP5-8 signaling is essential for left-side specification, and for normal left-side skeletal and neural patterning, but not for DV specification. Thus, while both BMP2/4 and BMP5-8 regulate LR axis specification, BMP2/4 but not zygotic BMP5-8 regulates DV axis specification in sea urchin embryos. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. Impaired right ventricular contractile function in childhood obesity and its association with right and left ventricular changes: a cine DENSE cardiac magnetic resonance study.

    PubMed

    Jing, Linyuan; Pulenthiran, Arichanah; Nevius, Christopher D; Mejia-Spiegeler, Abba; Suever, Jonathan D; Wehner, Gregory J; Kirchner, H Lester; Haggerty, Christopher M; Fornwalt, Brandon K

    2017-06-28

    Pediatric obesity is a growing public health problem, which is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death. Left ventricular (LV) remodeling (increased myocardial mass and thickness) and contractile dysfunction (impaired longitudinal strain) have been documented in obese children, but little attention has been paid to the right ventricle (RV). We hypothesized that obese/overweight children would have evidence of RV remodeling and contractile dysfunction. One hundred and three children, ages 8-18 years, were prospectively recruited and underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), including both standard cine imaging and displacement encoding with stimulated echoes (DENSE) imaging, which allowed for quantification of RV geometry and function/mechanics. RV free wall longitudinal strain was quantified from the end-systolic four-chamber DENSE image. Linear regression was used to quantify correlations of RV strain with LV strain and measurements of body composition (adjusted for sex and height). Analysis of variance was used to study the relationship between RV strain and LV remodeling types (concentric remodeling, eccentric/concentric hypertrophy). The RV was sufficiently visualized with DENSE in 70 (68%) subjects, comprising 36 healthy weight (13.6 ± 2.7 years) and 34 (12.1 ± 2.9 years) obese/overweight children. Obese/overweight children had a 22% larger RV mass index (8.2 ± 0.9 vs 6.7 ± 1.1 g/m 2.7 , p < 0.001) compared to healthy controls. RV free wall longitudinal strain was impaired in obese/overweight children (-16 ± 4% vs -19 ± 5%, p = 0.02). Ten (14%) out of 70 children had LV concentric hypertrophy, and these children had the most impaired RV longitudinal strain compared to those with normal LV geometry (-13 ± 4% vs -19 ± 5%, p = 0.002). RV longitudinal strain was correlated with LV longitudinal strain (r = 0.34, p = 0.004), systolic blood pressure (r = 0

  16. The endogenous NOS inhibitor asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) predicts LV mass independent of afterload.

    PubMed

    Sverdlov, A L; Ngo, D T M; Nightingale, A K; Rajendran, S; Mishra, K; Heresztyn, T; Ritchie, R H; Marwick, T H; Frenneaux, M P; Horowitz, J D

    2011-06-30

    Nitric oxide (NO) is a modulator of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and myocardial relaxation. The impact of NO availability on development of LVH has never been demonstrated in humans. We tested the hypotheses that elevation of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) concentrations (biochemical marker of decreased NO generation), and impairment of vascular responsiveness to NO donor GTN, would each predict the presence of LVH and associated LV diastolic dysfunction in a normal aging population. In 74 subjects aged 68±6 years, LV volumes and mass indexed to height(2.7) (LVMI) were calculated from cardiac MRI. Despite the absence of clinically-defined LVH, there was a relationship (r=0.29; p=0.01) between systolic BP and LVMI. Both elevation of ADMA levels to the highest quartile or impairment of GTN responsiveness (determined by applanation tonometry) to the lowest quartile were determinants of LVMI independent of systolic BP (p=0.01 and p=0.03, respectively). Filling pressure (E/E' ratio from echocardiography) was increased in patients with impaired vascular NO responsiveness (p<0.05) irrespective of LVMI. ADMA remained a significant determinant of LVMI on multivariate analysis. These data imply that NO bioavailability within the myocardium modulates earliest stages of LVH development and facilitates development of diastolic dysfunction at a given LV mass. Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  17. Long-Term Excessive Body Weight and Adult Left Ventricular Hypertrophy Are Linked Through Later-Life Body Size and Blood Pressure: The Bogalusa Heart Study.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Huijie; Zhang, Tao; Li, Shengxu; Guo, Yajun; Shen, Wei; Fernandez, Camilo; Harville, Emily; Bazzano, Lydia A; Urbina, Elaine M; He, Jiang; Chen, Wei

    2017-05-12

    Childhood adiposity is associated with cardiac structure in later life, but little is known regarding to what extent childhood body weight affects adult left ventricular geometric patterns through adult body size and blood pressure (BP). Determine quantitatively the mediation effect of adult body weight and BP on the association of childhood body mass index (BMI) with adult left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy. This longitudinal study consisted of 710 adults, aged 26 to 48 years, who had been examined for BMI and BP measured ≥4× during childhood and ≥2× during adulthood, with a mean follow-up period of 28.0 years. After adjusting for age, race, and sex, adult BMI had a significant mediation effect (76.4%; P <0.01) on the childhood BMI-adult LV mass index association. The mediation effects of adult systolic BP (15.2%), long-term burden (12.1%), and increasing trends of systolic BP (7.9%) were all significant ( P <0.01). Furthermore, these mediators also had significant mediation effects on the association of childhood BMI with adult LV hypertrophy, eccentric hypertrophy, and concentric hypertrophy. Importantly, the mediation effects of adult BMI were all significantly stronger than those of adult systolic BP on LV mass index, LV hypertrophy, and LV remodeling patterns ( P <0.01). Additionally, the mediation effect of systolic BP on concentric hypertrophy was significantly stronger than that on eccentric hypertrophy ( P <0.01). These findings suggest that increased childhood BMI has long-term adverse impact on subclinical changes in adult cardiac structure, and early life excessive body weight and adult LV hypertrophy are linked through later life excessive body weight and elevated BP. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

  18. Vagal Nerve Stimulation Evoked Heart Rate Changes and Protection from Cardiac Remodeling.

    PubMed

    Agarwal, Rahul; Mokelke, Eric; Ruble, Stephen B; Stolen, Craig M

    2016-02-01

    This study investigated whether vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) leads to improvements in ischemic heart failure via heart rate modulation. At 7 ± 1 days post left anterior descending artery (LAD) ligation, 63 rats with myocardial infarctions (MI) were implanted with ECG transmitters and VNS devices (MI + VNS, N = 44) or just ECG transmitters (MI, N = 17). VNS stimulation was active from 14 ± 1 days to 8 ± 1 weeks post MI. The average left ventricular (LV) end diastolic volumes at 8 ± 1 weeks were MI = 672.40 μl and MI + VNS = 519.35 μl, p = 0.03. The average heart weights, normalized to body weight (± std) at 14 ± 1 weeks were MI = 3.2 ± 0.6 g*kg(-1) and MI + VNS = 2.9 ± 0.3 g*kg(-1), p = 0.03. The degree of cardiac remodeling was correlated with the magnitude of acute VNS-evoked heart rate (HR) changes. Further research is required to determine if the acute heart rate response to VNS activation is useful as a heart failure biomarker or as a tool for VNS therapy characterization.

  19. Heart rate-induced modifications of concentric left ventricular hypertrophy: exploration of a novel therapeutic concept.

    PubMed

    Klein, Franziska J; Bell, Stephen; Runte, K Elisabeth; Lobel, Robert; Ashikaga, Takamuru; Lerman, Lilach O; LeWinter, Martin M; Meyer, Markus

    2016-10-01

    Lowering the heart rate is considered to be beneficial in heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). In a dilated left ventricle (LV), pharmacological heart rate lowering is associated with a reduction in LV chamber size. In patients with HFrEF, this structural change is associated with better survival. HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is increasingly prevalent but, so far, without any evidence-based treatment. HFpEF is typically associated with LV concentric remodeling and hypertrophy. The effects of heart rate on this structural phenotype are not known. Analogous with the benefits of a low heart rate on a dilated heart, we hypothesized that increased heart rates could lead to potentially beneficial remodeling of a concentrically hypertrophied LV. This was explored in an established porcine model of concentric LV hypertrophy and fibrosis. Our results suggest that a moderate increase in heart rate can be used to reduce wall thickness, normalize LV chamber volumes, decrease myocardial fibrosis, and improve LV compliance. Our results also indicate that the effects of heart rate can be titrated, are reversible, and do not induce HF. These findings may provide the rationale for a novel therapeutic approach for HFpEF and its antecedent disease substrate. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

  20. Defective branched chain amino acid catabolism contributes to cardiac dysfunction and remodeling following myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Wang, Wei; Zhang, Fuyang; Xia, Yunlong; Zhao, Shihao; Yan, Wenjun; Wang, Helin; Lee, Yan; Li, Congye; Zhang, Ling; Lian, Kun; Gao, Erhe; Cheng, Hexiang; Tao, Ling

    2016-11-01

    Cardiac metabolic remodeling is a central event during heart failure (HF) development following myocardial infarction (MI). It is well known that myocardial glucose and fatty acid dysmetabolism contribute to post-MI cardiac dysfunction and remodeling. However, the role of amino acid metabolism in post-MI HF remains elusive. Branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) are an important group of essential amino acids and function as crucial nutrient signaling in mammalian animals. The present study aimed to determine the role of cardiac BCAA metabolism in post-MI HF progression. Utilizing coronary artery ligation-induced murine MI models, we found that myocardial BCAA catabolism was significantly impaired in response to permanent MI, therefore leading to an obvious elevation of myocardial BCAA abundance. In MI-operated mice, oral BCAA administration further increased cardiac BCAA levels, activated the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, and exacerbated cardiac dysfunction and remodeling. These data demonstrate that BCAAs act as a direct contributor to post-MI cardiac pathologies. Furthermore, these BCAA-mediated deleterious effects were improved by rapamycin cotreatment, revealing an indispensable role of mTOR in BCAA-mediated adverse effects on cardiac function/structure post-MI. Of note, pharmacological inhibition of branched chain ketoacid dehydrogenase kinase (BDK), a negative regulator of myocardial BCAA catabolism, significantly improved cardiac BCAA catabolic disorders, reduced myocardial BCAA levels, and ameliorated post-MI cardiac dysfunction and remodeling. In conclusion, our data provide the evidence that impaired cardiac BCAA catabolism directly contributes to post-MI cardiac dysfunction and remodeling. Moreover, improving cardiac BCAA catabolic defects may be a promising therapeutic strategy against post-MI HF. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

  1. Quantifying grain shape with MorpheoLV: A case study using Holocene glacial marine sediments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Charpentier, Isabelle; Staszyc, Alicia B.; Wellner, Julia S.; Alejandro, Vanessa

    2017-06-01

    As demonstrated in earlier works, quantitative grain shape analysis has revealed to be a strong proxy for determining sediment transport history and depositional environments. MorpheoLV, devoted to the calculation of roughness coefficients from pictures of unique clastic sediment grains using Fourier analysis, drives computations for a collection of samples of grain images. This process may be applied to sedimentary deposits assuming core/interval/image archives for the storage of samples collected along depth. This study uses a 25.8 m jumbo piston core, NBP1203 JPC36, taken from a 100 m thick sedimentary drift deposit from Perseverance Drift on the northern Antarctic Peninsula continental shelf. Changes in ocean and ice conditions throughout the Holocene recorded in this sedimentary archive can be assessed by studying grain shape, grain texture, and other proxies. Ninety six intervals were sampled and a total of 2319 individual particle images were used. Microtextures of individual grains observed by SEM show a very high abundance of authigenically precipitated silica that obscures the original grain shape. Grain roughness, computed along depth with MorpheoLV, only shows small variation confirming the qualitative observation deduced from the SEM. Despite this, trends can be seen confirming the reliability of MorpheoLV as a tool for quantitative grain shape analysis.

  2. Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 activity and human atrial fibrillation: increased plasma angiotensin converting enzyme 2 activity is associated with atrial fibrillation and more advanced left atrial structural remodelling.

    PubMed

    Walters, Tomos E; Kalman, Jonathan M; Patel, Sheila K; Mearns, Megan; Velkoska, Elena; Burrell, Louise M

    2017-08-01

    Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is an integral membrane protein whose main action is to degrade angiotensin II. Plasma ACE2 activity is increased in various cardiovascular diseases. We aimed to determine the relationship between plasma ACE2 activity and human atrial fibrillation (AF), and in particular its relationship to left atrial (LA) structural remodelling. One hundred and three participants from a tertiary arrhythmia centre, including 58 with paroxysmal AF (PAF), 20 with persistent AF (PersAF), and 25 controls, underwent clinical evaluation, echocardiographic analysis, and measurement of plasma ACE2 activity. A subgroup of 20 participants underwent invasive LA electroanatomic mapping. Plasma ACE2 activity levels were increased in AF [control 13.3 (9.5-22.3) pmol/min/mL; PAF 16.9 (9.7-27.3) pmol/min/mL; PersAF 22.8 (13.7-33.4) pmol/min/mL, P = 0.006]. Elevated plasma ACE2 was associated with older age, male gender, hypertension and vascular disease, elevated left ventricular (LV) mass, impaired LV diastolic function and advanced atrial disease (P < 0.05 for all). Independent predictors of elevated plasma ACE2 activity were AF (P = 0.04) and vascular disease (P < 0.01). There was a significant relationship between elevated ACE2 activity and low mean LA bipolar voltage (adjusted R2 = 0.22, P = 0.03), a high proportion of complex fractionated electrograms (R2 = 0.32, P = 0.009) and a long LA activation time (R2 = 0.20, P = 0.04). Plasma ACE2 activity is elevated in human AF. Both AF and vascular disease predict elevated plasma ACE2 activity, and elevated plasma ACE2 is significantly associated with more advanced LA structural remodelling. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2016. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  3. Major adverse events and atrial tachycardia in Ebstein’s anomaly predicted by cardiovascular magnetic resonance

    PubMed Central

    Rydman, Riikka; Shiina, Yumi; Diller, Gerhard-Paul; Niwa, Koichiro; Li, Wei; Uemura, Hideki; Uebing, Anselm; Barbero, Umberto; Bouzas, Beatriz; Ernst, Sabine; Wong, Tom; Pennell, Dudley J; Gatzoulis, Michael A; Babu-Narayan, Sonya V

    2018-01-01

    Objectives Patients with Ebstein’s anomaly of the tricuspid valve (EA) are at risk of tachyarrhythmia, congestive heart failure and sudden cardiac death. We sought to determine the value of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) for predicting these outcomes. Methods Seventy-nine consecutive adult patients (aged 37±15 years) with unrepaired EA underwent CMR and were followed prospectively for a median 3.4 (range 0.4–10.9) years for clinical outcomes, namely major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs: sustained ventricular tachycardia/heart failure hospital admission/cardiac transplantation/death) and first-onset atrial tachyarrhythmia (AT). Results CMR-derived variables associated with MACE (n=6) were right ventricular (RV) or left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) (HR 2.06, 95% CI 1.168 to 3.623, p=0.012 and HR 2.35, 95% CI 1.348 to 4.082, p=0.003, respectively), LV stroke volume index (HR 2.82, 95% CI 1.212 to 7.092, p=0.028) and cardiac index (HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.002 to 1.366, p=0.037); all remained significant when tested solely for mortality. History of AT (HR 11.16, 95% CI 1.30 to 95.81, p=0.028) and New York Heart Association class >2 (HR 7.66, 95% CI 1.54 to 38.20, p=0.013) were also associated with MACE; AT preceded all but one MACE, suggesting its potential role as an early marker of adverse outcome (p=0.011). CMR variables associated with first-onset AT (n=17; 21.5%) included RVEF (HR 1.55, 95% CI 1.103 to 2.160, p=0.011), total R/L volume index (HR 1.18, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.32, p=0.002), RV/LV end diastolic volume ratio (HR 1.55, 95% CI 1.14 to 2.10, p=0.005) and apical septal leaflet displacement/total LV septal length (HR 1.03, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.07, p=0.041); the latter two combined enhanced risk prediction (HR 6.12, 95% CI 1.67 to 22.56, p=0.007). Conclusion CMR-derived indices carry prognostic information regarding MACE and first-onset AT among adults with unrepaired EA. CMR may be included in the periodic surveillance of these patients

  4. Cardiovascular response to prescribed detraining among recreational athletes.

    PubMed

    Pedlar, Charles R; Brown, Marcel G; Shave, Robert E; Otto, James M; Drane, Aimee; Michaud-Finch, Jennifer; Contursi, Miranda; Wasfy, Meagan M; Hutter, Adolph; Picard, Michael H; Lewis, Gregory D; Baggish, Aaron L

    2018-04-01

    Exercise-induced cardiac remodeling (EICR) and the attendant myocardial adaptations characteristic of the athlete's heart may regress during periods of exercise reduction or abstinence. The time course and mechanisms underlying this reverse remodeling, specifically the impact of concomitant plasma volume (PV) contraction on cardiac chamber size, remain incompletely understood. We therefore studied recreational runners ( n = 21, age 34 ± 7 yr; 48% male) who completed an 18-wk training program (~7 h/wk) culminating in the 2016 Boston Marathon after which total exercise exposure was confined to <2 h/wk (no single session >1 h) for 8 wk. Cardiac structure and function, exercise capacity, and PV were assessed at peak fitness (10-14 days before) and at 4 wk and 8 wk postmarathon. Mixed linear modeling adjusting for age, sex, V̇o 2peak , and marathon finish time was used to compare data across time points. Physiological detraining was evidenced by serial reductions in treadmill performance. Two distinct phases of myocardial remodeling and hematological adaptation were observed. After 4 wk of detraining, there were significant reductions in PV (Δ -6.0%, P < 0.01), left ventricular (LV) wall thickness (Δ -8.1%, <0.05), LV mass (Δ -10.3%, P < 0.001), and right atrial area (Δ -8.2%, P < 0.001). After 8 wk of detraining, there was a significant reduction in right ventricle chamber size (end-diastolic area Δ = -8.0%, P < 0.05) without further concomitant reductions in PV or LV wall thickness. Abrupt reductions in exercise training stimulus result in a structure-specific time course of reverse cardiac remodeling that occurs largely independently of PV contraction. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Significant reverse cardiac remodeling, previously documented among competitive athletes, extends to recreational runners and occurs with a distinct time course. Initial reductions in plasma volume and left ventricular (LV) mass, driven by reductions in wall thickness, are followed by

  5. To Remodel or To Build?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rosenblum, Todd

    2009-01-01

    The question of remodeling an existing house to make it wheelchair accessible or building a new barrier-free house is a difficult decision. This article presents some initial questions and considerations followed by a list of pros and cons for remodeling an existing house vs. building a new house.

  6. Polymer Injection Therapy to Reverse Remodel the Papillary Muscles: Efficacy in Reducing Mitral Regurgitation in a Chronic Ischemic Model

    PubMed Central

    Solis, Jorge; Levine, Robert A.; Johnson, Benjamin; Guerrero, J. Luis; Handschumacher, Mark D.; Suzanne, Suzanne; Lam, Kaitlyn; Berlin, Jason; Braithwaite, Gavin J.C.; Muratoglu, Orhun K.; Vlahakes, Gus J.; Hung, Judy

    2010-01-01

    Ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR) results from displacement of the papillary muscles due to ischemic ventricular distortion. Recurrent IMR is frequent after annuloplasty, particularly when left ventricular remodeling continues to progress. Our hypothesis is that repositioning of the papillary muscles can be achieved by injection of polyvinyl-alcohol (PVA) hydrogel polymer into the myocardium in chronic MR despite advanced left ventricular remodeling. Methods Nine sheep underwent ligation of circumflex branches to produce chronic ischemic MR over eight weeks. Once MR developed, PVA was injected into the myocardium underlying the infarcted PM. 2D and 3D echocardiograms and hemodynamic data were obtained pre infarct (baseline), pre PVA (Chronic MR) and post PVA. Results One animal died early, one did not develop MR, and the remaining 7 developed moderate MR. PVA injection significantly decreased the MR from moderate to trace. This was associated with a decrease in infarcted papillary muscle-to-mitral annulus tethering distance (32.6 ± 4.4 to 27.6 ± 4.2 mm, P<0.05), tenting volume (2.1±0.3 to 1.6 ± 0.3 mm2 P<0.05) and leaflet closure area (9.3 ± 0.8 to 8.2 ± 0.7 mm2, P<0.04). PVA was not associated with significant decreases in LVEF (42 ± 3 % vs 40 ± 2 %, p=ns) or end-systolic elastance. Measures of left ventricular diastolic function, tau (99 ± 55 ms to 87 ± 36;) and left ventricular stiffness coefficient (0.04 ± 0.03 to 0.05 ± 0.03) did not increase post PVA. Conclusions PVA hydrogel injections improve coaptation and reduce remodeling in chronic MR without impairing LV systolic and diastolic function. This new approach offers a potential alternative for relieving ischemic mitral regurgitation by correcting papillary muscle position, thus relieving tethering that causes ischemic mitral regurgitation. PMID:20736444

  7. Using the laws of thermodynamics to understand how matrix metalloproteinases coordinate the myocardial response to injury.

    PubMed

    Iyer, Rugmani Padmanabhan; Jung, Mira; Lindsey, Merry L

    Following myocardial infarction (MI), the left ventricle (LV) undergoes a series of molecular, cellular, and functional alterations that are both part of the wound healing response to form a scar in the infarct region and the consequence of that response. Using the laws of thermodynamics as an analogy, we present here three laws for categorizing the post-MI LV remodeling process. The first law is that the LV will attempt to maintain equilibrium and compensate as a way to maximize function, the second law is that remodeling is progressive and unidirectional, and the third law is that the final goal is (ideally, but not always achievable) a stable, equilibrated scar. This comparison helps to define the boundaries of the system, whether it be the infarct zone, the LV, the heart, or the entire body. This review provides an overview for those not directly in the field and establishes a framework to help prioritize future research directions.

  8. Using the laws of thermodynamics to understand how matrix metalloproteinases coordinate the myocardial response to injury

    PubMed Central

    Iyer, Rugmani Padmanabhan; Jung, Mira; Lindsey, Merry L

    2016-01-01

    Following myocardial infarction (MI), the left ventricle (LV) undergoes a series of molecular, cellular, and functional alterations that are both part of the wound healing response to form a scar in the infarct region and the consequence of that response. Using the laws of thermodynamics as an analogy, we present here three laws for categorizing the post-MI LV remodeling process. The first law is that the LV will attempt to maintain equilibrium and compensate as a way to maximize function, the second law is that remodeling is progressive and unidirectional, and the third law is that the final goal is (ideally, but not always achievable) a stable, equilibrated scar. This comparison helps to define the boundaries of the system, whether it be the infarct zone, the LV, the heart, or the entire body. This review provides an overview for those not directly in the field and establishes a framework to help prioritize future research directions. PMID:27376092

  9. Cardiac hypertrophy limits infarct expansion after myocardial infarction in mice.

    PubMed

    Iismaa, Siiri E; Li, Ming; Kesteven, Scott; Wu, Jianxin; Chan, Andrea Y; Holman, Sara R; Calvert, John W; Haq, Ahtesham Ul; Nicks, Amy M; Naqvi, Nawazish; Husain, Ahsan; Feneley, Michael P; Graham, Robert M

    2018-04-17

    We have previously demonstrated that adult transgenic C57BL/6J mice with CM-restricted overexpression of the dominant negative W v mutant protein (dn-c-kit-Tg) respond to pressure overload with robust cardiomyocyte (CM) cell cycle entry. Here, we tested if outcomes after myocardial infarction (MI) due to coronary artery ligation are improved in this transgenic model. Compared to non-transgenic littermates (NTLs), adult male dn-c-kit-Tg mice displayed CM hypertrophy and concentric left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy in the absence of an increase in workload. Stroke volume and cardiac output were preserved and LV wall stress was markedly lower than that in NTLs, leading to a more energy-efficient heart. In response to MI, infarct size in adult (16-week old) dn-c-kit-Tg hearts was similar to that of NTL after 24 h but was half that in NTL hearts 12 weeks post-MI. Cumulative CM cell cycle entry was only modestly increased in dn-c-kit-Tg hearts. However, dn-c-kit-Tg mice were more resistant to infarct expansion, adverse LV remodelling and contractile dysfunction, and suffered no early death from LV rupture, relative to NTL mice. Thus, pre-existing cardiac hypertrophy lowers wall stress in dn-c-kit-Tg hearts, limits infarct expansion and prevents death from myocardial rupture.

  10. Epigenomic regulation of oncogenesis by chromatin remodeling.

    PubMed

    Kumar, R; Li, D-Q; Müller, S; Knapp, S

    2016-08-25

    Disruption of the intricate gene expression program represents one of major driving factors for the development, progression and maintenance of human cancer, and is often associated with acquired therapeutic resistance. At the molecular level, cancerous phenotypes are the outcome of cellular functions of critical genes, regulatory interactions of histones and chromatin remodeling complexes in response to dynamic and persistent upstream signals. A large body of genetic and biochemical evidence suggests that the chromatin remodelers integrate the extracellular and cytoplasmic signals to control gene activity. Consequently, widespread dysregulation of chromatin remodelers and the resulting inappropriate expression of regulatory genes, together, lead to oncogenesis. We summarize the recent developments and current state of the dysregulation of the chromatin remodeling components as the driving mechanism underlying the growth and progression of human tumors. Because chromatin remodelers, modifying enzymes and protein-protein interactions participate in interpreting the epigenetic code, selective chromatin remodelers and bromodomains have emerged as new frontiers for pharmacological intervention to develop future anti-cancer strategies to be used either as single-agent or in combination therapies with chemotherapeutics or radiotherapy.

  11. Impact of cardiac support device combined with slow-release prostacyclin agonist in a canine ischemic cardiomyopathy model.

    PubMed

    Kubota, Yasuhiko; Miyagawa, Shigeru; Fukushima, Satsuki; Saito, Atsuhiro; Watabe, Hiroshi; Daimon, Takashi; Sakai, Yoshiki; Akita, Toshiaki; Sawa, Yoshiki

    2014-03-01

    The cardiac support device supports the heart and mechanically reduces left ventricular (LV) diastolic wall stress. Although it has been shown to halt LV remodeling in dilated cardiomyopathy, its therapeutic efficacy is limited by its lack of biological effects. In contrast, the slow-release synthetic prostacyclin agonist ONO-1301 enhances reversal of LV remodeling through biological mechanisms such as angiogenesis and attenuation of fibrosis. We therefore hypothesized that ONO-1301 plus a cardiac support device might be beneficial for the treatment of ischemic cardiomyopathy. Twenty-four dogs with induced anterior wall infarction were assigned randomly to 1 of 4 groups at 1 week postinfarction as follows: cardiac support device alone, cardiac support device plus ONO-1301 (hybrid therapy), ONO-1301 alone, or sham control. At 8 weeks post-infarction, LV wall stress was reduced significantly in the hybrid therapy group compared with the other groups. Myocardial blood flow, measured by positron emission tomography, and vascular density were significantly higher in the hybrid therapy group compared with the cardiac support device alone and sham groups. The hybrid therapy group also showed the least interstitial fibrosis, the greatest recovery of LV systolic and diastolic functions, assessed by multidetector computed tomography and cardiac catheterization, and the lowest plasma N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels (P < .05). The combination of a cardiac support device and the prostacyclin agonist ONO-1301 elicited a greater reversal of LV remodeling than either treatment alone, suggesting the potential of this hybrid therapy for the clinical treatment of ischemia-induced heart failure. Copyright © 2014 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. Rationale and design of the Children's Oncology Group (COG) study ALTE1621: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial to determine if low-dose carvedilol can prevent anthracycline-related left ventricular remodeling in childhood cancer survivors at high risk for developing heart failure.

    PubMed

    Armenian, Saro H; Hudson, Melissa M; Chen, Ming Hui; Colan, Steven D; Lindenfeld, Lanie; Mills, George; Siyahian, Aida; Gelehrter, Sarah; Dang, Ha; Hein, Wendy; Green, Daniel M; Robison, Leslie L; Wong, F Lennie; Douglas, Pamela S; Bhatia, Smita

    2016-10-04

    Anthracyclines are widely used in the treatment of childhood cancer. One of the well-recognized side-effects of anthracycline therapy is dose-dependent cardiomyopathy that may progress to heart failure (HF) years after completion of cancer-directed therapy. This study will evaluate the efficacy of low-dose beta-blocker (carvedilol) for HF risk reduction in childhood cancer survivors at highest risk for HF. The proposed intervention has the potential to significantly reduce chronic cardiac injury via interruption of neurohormonal systems responsible for left ventricular (LV) remodeling, resulting in improved cardiac function and decreased risk of HF. The intervention is informed by previous studies demonstrating efficacy in pediatric and adult non-oncology populations, yet remains unstudied in the pediatric oncology population. The primary objective of the trial is to determine impact of the intervention on echocardiographic markers of cardiac remodeling and HF risk, including: LV wall thickness/ dimension ratio (LVWT/D; primary endpoint), as well as LV ejection fraction, volume, and blood biomarkers (natriuretic peptides, galectin-3) associated with HF risk. Secondary objectives are to establish safety and tolerability of the 2-year course of carvedilol using: 1) objective measures: hepatic and cardiovascular toxicity, treatment adherence, and 2) subjective measures: participant self-reported outcomes. Two hundred and fifty survivors of childhood cancer (diagnosed <21 years of age), and previously treated with high-dose (≥300 mg/m 2 ) anthracyclines will be enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial. After baseline assessments, participants will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to low-dose carvedilol (maximum dose: 12.5 mg/day) or placebo. Carvedilol or placebo is up-titrated (starting dose: 3.125 mg/day) according to tolerability. When completed, this study will provide much-needed information regarding a physiologically plausible

  13. Application of the HeartLander Crawling Robot for Injection of a Thermally Sensitive Anti-Remodeling Agent for Myocardial Infarction Therapy

    PubMed Central

    Chapman, Michael P.; López González, Jose L.; Goyette, Brina E.; Fujimoto, Kazuro L.; Ma, Zuwei; Wagner, William R.; Zenati, Marco A.; Riviere, Cameron N.

    2011-01-01

    The injection of a mechanical bulking agent into the left ventricular (LV) wall of the heart has shown promise as a therapy for maladaptive remodeling of the myocardium after myocardial infarct (MI). The HeartLander robotic crawler presented itself as an ideal vehicle for minimally-invasive, highly accurate epicardial injection of such an agent. Use of the optimal bulking agent, a thermosetting hydrogel developed by our group, presents a number of engineering obstacles, including cooling of the miniaturized injection system while the robot is navigating in the warm environment of a living patient. We present herein a demonstration of an integrated miniature cooling and injection system in the HeartLander crawling robot, that is fully biocompatible and capable of multiple injections of a thermosetting hydrogel into dense animal tissue while the entire system is immersed in a 37°C water bath. PMID:21096276

  14. New classification of geometric ventricular patterns in severe aortic stenosis: Could it be clinically useful?

    PubMed

    Di Nora, Concetta; Cervesato, Eugenio; Cosei, Iulian; Ravasel, Andreea; Popescu, Bogdan A; Zito, Concetta; Carerj, Scipione; Antonini-Canterin, Francesco; Popescu, Andreea C

    2018-04-16

    In severe aortic stenosis, different left ventricle (LV) remodeling patterns as a response to pressure overload have distinct hemodynamic profiles, cardiac function, and outcomes. The most common classification considers LV relative wall thickness and LV mass index to create 4 different groups. A new classification including also end-diastolic volume index has been recently proposed. To describe the prevalence of the newly identified remodeling patterns in patients with severe aortic stenosis and to evaluate their clinical relevance according to symptoms. We analyzed 286 consecutive patients with isolated severe aortic stenosis. Current guidelines were used for echocardiographic evaluation. Symptoms were defined as the presence of angina, syncope, or NYHA class III-IV. The mean age was 75 ± 9 years, 156 patients (54%) were men, while 158 (55%) were symptomatic. According to the new classification, the most frequent remodeling pattern was concentric hypertrophy (57.3%), followed by mixed (18.9%) and dilated hypertrophy (8.4%). There were no patients with eccentric remodeling; only 4 patients had a normalLV geometry. Symptomatic patients showed significantly more mixed hypertrophy (P < .05), while the difference regarding the prevalence of the other patterns was not statistically significant. When we analyzed the distribution of the classic 4 patterns stratified by the presence of symptoms, however, we did not find a significant difference (P = .157). The new classification had refined the description of different cardiac geometric phenotypes that develop as a response to pressure overload. It might be superior to the classic 4 patterns in terms of association with symptoms. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  15. Electrocardiographic measures of repolarization dispersion and their relationships with echocardiographic indices of ventricular remodeling and premature ventricular beats in hypertension

    PubMed Central

    Ciobanu, Ana; Tse, Gary; Liu, Tong; Deaconu, Maria V; Gheorghe, Gabriela S; Ilieşiu, Adriana M; Nanea, Ioan T

    2017-01-01

    Objective To examine the relationship between Tpeak- Tend interval (Tpe) and Tpe/QT ratio with occurrence of ventricular premature beats (VPBs) and left ventricular remodeling in hypertension. Methods A total of 52 patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension were included, undergoing echocardiography and 24-hours Holter monitoring. Ventricular remodeling was assessed by left ventricular mass index (LVMI) using the Devereux formula and diastolic function by transmitral E and A wave velocities and E/A ratio. Tpe was measured in the precordial leads. The end of the T wave was set by the method of the tangent to the steepest descending slope of the T wave. Results Tpe and Tpe/QT in leads V2 (r = 0.33, P = 0.01; r = 0.27, P = 0.04 respectively) and V3 (r = 0.40, P = 0.002; r = 0.40, P = 0.003, respectively) correlated significantly with LVMI. A significant inverse relationship was observed between E/A ratio and QT (r = −0.33, P = 0.01), Tpe in V3 (r = −0.39, P = 0.003) and Tpe/QT in V3 (r = −0.31, P = 0.02). Tpe in V3, V5, mean Tpe and maximum Tpe with cut-off values of 60 ms, 59 ms, 62 ms and 71 ms, respectively, associated with the occurrence of ventricular premature beats. Conclusions The repolarization parameters Tpe interval and Tpe/QT ratio correlate with LVMI and indices of left ventricular diastolic function and show better predictive values than traditional parameters such as QT interval and QT dispersion. Lead V3 is the best lead for measuring Tpe and Tpe/QT. These ECG indices can therefore be used in clinical practice to monitor LV remodeling and predict occurrence of VPBs. PMID:29581710

  16. Rodent Biocompatibility Test Using the NASA Foodbar and Epoxy EP21LV

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Tillman, J.; Steele, M.; Dumars, P.; Vasques, M.; Girten, B.; Sun, S. (Technical Monitor)

    2002-01-01

    Epoxy has been used successfully to affix NASA foodbars to the inner walls of the Animal Enclosure Module for past space flight experiments utilizing rodents. The epoxy used on past missions was discontinued, making it necessary to identify a new epoxy for use on the STS-108 and STS-107 missions. This experiment was designed to test the basic biocompatibility of epoxy EP21LV with male rats (Sprague Dawley) and mice (Swiss Webster) when applied to NASA foodbars. For each species, the test was conducted with a control group fed untreated foodbars and an experimental group fed foodbars applied with EP21LV. For each species, there were no group differences in animal health and no statistical differences (P<0.05) in body weights throughout the study. In mice, there was a 16% increase in heart weight in the epoxy group; this result was not found in rats. For both species, there were no statistical differences found in other organ weights measured. In rats, blood glucose levels were 15% higher and both total protein and globulin were 10% lower in the epoxy group. Statistical differences in these parameters were not found in mice. For both species, no statistical differences were found in other blood parameters tested. Food consumption was not different in rats but water consumption was significantly decreased 10 to 15% in the epoxy group. The difference in water consumption is likely due to an increased water content of the epoxy-treated foodbars. Finally, both species avoided consumption of the epoxy material. Based on the global analysis of the results, the few parameters found to be statistically different do not appear to be a physiologically relevant effect of the epoxy material, We conclude that the EP21LV epoxy is biocompatible with rodents.

  17. Passive Ventricular Mechanics Modelling Using MRI of Structure and Function

    PubMed Central

    Wang, V.Y.; Lam, H.I.; Ennis, D.B.; Young, A.A.; Nash, M.P.

    2009-01-01

    Patients suffering from dilated cardiomyopathy or myocardial infarction can develop left ventricular (LV) diastolic impairment. The LV remodels its structure and function to adapt to pathophysiological changes in geometry and loading conditions and this remodeling process can alter the passive ventricular mechanics. In order to better understand passive ventricular mechanics, a LV finite element model was developed to incorporate physiological and mechanical information derived from in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tissue tagging, in vivo LV cavity pressure recording and ex vivo diffusion tensor MRI (DTMRI) of a canine heart. MRI tissue tagging enables quantitative evaluation of cardiac mechanical function with high spatial and temporal resolution, whilst the direction of maximum water diffusion (the primary eigenvector) in each voxel of a DTMRI directly correlates with the myocardial fibre orientation. This model was customized to the geometry of the canine LV during diastasis by fitting the segmented epicardial and endocardial surface data from tagged MRI using nonlinear finite element fitting techniques. Myofibre orientations, extracted from DTMRI of the same heart, were incorporated into this geometric model using a free form deformation methodology. Pressure recordings, temporally synchronized to the tissue tagging MRI data, were used to simulate the LV deformation during diastole. Simulation of the diastolic LV mechanics allowed us to estimate the stiffness of the passive LV myocardium based on kinematic data obtained from tagged MRI. This integrated physiological model will allow more insight into the regional passive diastolic mechanics of the LV on an individualized basis, thereby improving our understanding of the underlying structural basis of mechanical dysfunction in pathological conditions. PMID:18982680

  18. Passive ventricular mechanics modelling using MRI of structure and function.

    PubMed

    Wang, V Y; Lam, H I; Ennis, D B; Young, A A; Nash, M P

    2008-01-01

    Patients suffering from dilated cardiomyopathy or myocardial infarction can develop left ventricular (LV) diastolic impairment. The LV remodels its structure and function to adapt to pathophysiological changes in geometry and loading conditions and this remodeling process can alter the passive ventricular mechanics. In order to better understand passive ventricular mechanics, a LV finite element model was developed to incorporate physiological and mechanical information derived from in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tissue tagging, in vivo LV cavity pressure recording and ex vivo diffusion tensor MRI (DTMRI) of a canine heart. MRI tissue tagging enables quantitative evaluation of cardiac mechanical function with high spatial and temporal resolution, whilst the direction of maximum water diffusion (the primary eigenvector) in each voxel of a DTMRI directly correlates with the myocardial fibre orientation. This model was customized to the geometry of the canine LV during diastasis by fitting the segmented epicardial and endocardial surface data from tagged MRI using nonlinear finite element fitting techniques. Myofibre orientations, extracted from DTMRI of the same heart, were incorporated into this geometric model using a free form deformation methodology. Pressure recordings, temporally synchronized to the tissue tagging MRI data, were used to simulate the LV deformation during diastole. Simulation of the diastolic LV mechanics allowed us to estimate the stiffness of the passive LV myocardium based on kinematic data obtained from tagged MRI. This integrated physiological model will allow more insight into the regional passive diastolic mechanics of the LV on an individualized basis, thereby improving our understanding of the underlying structural basis of mechanical dysfunction in pathological conditions.

  19. Selective Class I HDAC Inhibition Suppresses Hypoxia-Induced Cardiopulmonary Remodeling Through an Anti-Proliferative Mechanism

    PubMed Central

    Cavasin, Maria A.; Demos-Davies, Kim; Horn, Todd R.; Walker, Lori A.; Lemon, Douglas D.; Birdsey, Nicholas; Weiser-Evans, Mary C. M.; Harral, Jules; Irwin, David C.; Anwar, Adil; Yeager, Michael E.; Li, Min; Watson, Peter A.; Nemenoff, Raphael A.; Buttrick, Peter M.; Stenmark, Kurt R.; McKinsey, Timothy A.

    2012-01-01

    Rationale Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors are efficacious in models of hypertension-induced left ventricular (LV) heart failure. The consequences of HDAC inhibition in the context of pulmonary hypertension (PH) with associated right ventricular (RV) cardiac remodeling are poorly understood. Objective This study was performed to assess the utility of selective small molecule inhibitors of class I HDACs in a pre-clinical model of PH. Methods and Results Rats were exposed to hypobaric hypoxia for 3 weeks in the absence or presence of a benzamide HDAC inhibitor, MGCD0103, which selectively inhibits class I HDACs −1, −2 and −3. The compound reduced pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) more dramatically than tadalafil, a standard-of-care therapy for human PH that functions as a vasodilator. MGCD0103 improved pulmonary artery (PA) acceleration time (PAAT) and reduced systolic notching of the PA flow envelope, suggesting a positive impact of the HDAC inhibitor on pulmonary vascular remodeling and stiffening. Similar results were obtained with an independent class I HDAC-selective inhibitor, MS-275. Reduced PAP in MGCD0103-treated animals was associated with blunted pulmonary arterial wall thickening due to suppression of smooth muscle cell proliferation. RV function was maintained in MGCD0103 treated animals. Although the class I HDAC inhibitor only modestly reduced RV hypertrophy, it had multiple beneficial effects on the RV, which included suppression of pathological gene expression, inhibition of pro-apoptotic caspase activity, and repression of pro-inflammatory protein expression. Conclusions By targeting distinct pathogenic mechanisms, isoform-selective HDAC inhibitors have potential as novel therapeutics for PH that will complement vasodilator standards-of-care. PMID:22282194

  20. Experimental infection of Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV) in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and red tilapia (Oreochromis spp.).

    PubMed

    Tattiyapong, Puntanat; Dachavichitlead, Worawan; Surachetpong, Win

    2017-08-01

    Since 2015, a novel orthomyxo-like virus, tilapia lake virus (TiLV) has been associated with outbreaks of disease and massive mortality of cultured Nile and red tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus and Oreochromis spp., respectively) in Thailand. In this study, TiLV was isolated from field samples and propagated in the permissive E-11 cell line, with cytopathic effect (CPE) development within 3-5days post-inoculation. Electron micrographs of infected E-11 cells and fish tissues confirmed the rounded, enveloped virions of 60 to 80nm with characteristics very similar to those of Orthomyxoviridae. In vivo challenge studies showed that high mortality in Nile (86%) and red tilapia (66%) occurred within 4-12days post-infection. The virus was re-isolated from challenged fish tissues in the permissive cell line, and PCR analysis confirmed TiLV as a causative pathogen. The distinct histopathology of challenged fish included massive degeneration and inflammatory cell infiltration in the liver and brain as well as the presence of eosinophilic intracytoplasmic inclusions in hepatocytes and splenic cells. Our results fulfilled Koch's postulates and confirmed that TiLV is an etiologic agent of mass mortality of tilapia in Thailand. The emergence of this virus in many countries has helped increase awareness that it is a potential threat to tilapia aquacultured in Thailand, Asia, and worldwide. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Molecular biology of myocardial recovery.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Jianyi; Narula, Jagat

    2004-02-01

    The use of LVADs that leads to a dramatic mechanical and hemodynamic unloading of the failing left ventricle offers a unique opportunity to investigate the mechanisms of remodeling and reverse remodeling. Although it is being increasingly realized that the LVAD unloading results in regression of hypertrophy and improvement of myocyte function and LV geometry, the cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for these beneficial effects remain undefined. The favorable alterations in geometry that occur in parallel fashion at the organ, cellular, and molecular levels are most likely caused by the reduced LV wall stress/stretch as a consequence of the mechanical support provided by LVAD. If it is confirmed that LVAD unloading can contribute significantly to reverse remodeling, the role of LVADs may graduate from bridge-to-transplantation or destination therapy to bridge-to-recovery.

  2. Association of Weight and Body Composition on Cardiac Structure and Function in the ARIC Study (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities).

    PubMed

    Bello, Natalie A; Cheng, Susan; Claggett, Brian; Shah, Amil M; Ndumele, Chiadi E; Roca, Gabriela Querejeta; Santos, Angela B S; Gupta, Deepak; Vardeny, Orly; Aguilar, David; Folsom, Aaron R; Butler, Kenneth R; Kitzman, Dalane W; Coresh, Josef; Solomon, Scott D

    2016-08-01

    Obesity increases cardiovascular risk. However, the extent to which various measures of body composition are associated with abnormalities in cardiac structure and function, independent of comorbidities commonly affecting obese individuals, is not clear. This study sought to examine the relationship between body mass index, waist circumference, and percent body fat with conventional and advanced measures of cardiac structure and function. We studied 4343 participants of the ARIC study (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities) who were aged 69 to 82 years, free of coronary heart disease and heart failure, and underwent comprehensive echocardiography. Increasing body mass index, waist circumference, and body fat were associated with greater left ventricular (LV) mass and left atrial volume indexed to height(2.7) in both men and women (P<0.001). In women, all 3 measures were associated with abnormal LV geometry, and increasing waist circumference and body fat were associated with worse global longitudinal strain, a measure of LV systolic function. In both sexes, increasing body mass index was associated with greater right ventricular end-diastolic area and worse right ventricular fractional area change (P≤0.001). We observed similar associations for both waist circumference and percent body fat. In a large, biracial cohort of older adults free of clinically overt coronary heart disease or heart failure, obesity was associated with subclinical abnormalities in cardiac structure in both men and women and with adverse LV remodeling and impaired LV systolic function in women. These data highlight the association of obesity and subclinical abnormalities of cardiac structure and function, particularly in women. © 2016 American Heart Association, Inc.

  3. Concomitant Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibition Enhances Myocardial Protection by Inhaled Nitric Oxide in Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury.

    PubMed

    Lux, Arpad; Pokreisz, Peter; Swinnen, Melissa; Caluwe, Ellen; Gillijns, Hilde; Szelid, Zsolt; Merkely, Bela; Janssens, Stefan P

    2016-02-01

    Enhanced cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling may attenuate myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/R) and improve left ventricular (LV) functional recovery after myocardial infarction (MI). We investigated the cardioprotection afforded by inhaled NO (iNO), the phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5)-specific inhibitor tadalafil (TAD), or their combination (iNO+TAD) in C57Bl6J mice subjected to 6-minute left anterior descending artery ligation followed by reperfusion. We measured plasma and cardiac concentrations of cGMP during early reperfusion, quantified myocardial necrosis and inflammation by serial troponin-I (TnI) and myeloperoxidase-positive cell infiltration at day 3, and evaluated LV function and remodeling after 4 weeks using echocardiography and pressure-conductance catheterization. Administration of iNO, TAD, or both during I/R was safe and hemodynamically well tolerated. Compared with untreated mice (CON), only iNO+TAD increased plasma and cardiac-cGMP levels during early reperfusion (80 ± 12 versus 36 ± 6 pmol/ml and 0.15 ± 0.02 versus 0.05 ± 0.01 pmol/mg protein, P < 0.05 for both). Moreover, iNO+TAD reduced TnI at 4 hours to a greater extent (P < 0.001 versus CON) than either alone (P < 0.05 versus CON) and was associated with significantly less myocardial inflammatory cell infiltration at day 3. After 4 weeks and compared with CON, iNO+TAD was associated with increased fractional shortening (43 ± 1 versus 33 ± 2%, P < 0.01), larger stroke volumes (14.9 ± 1.2 versus 10.2 ± 0.9 μl, P < 0.05), enhanced septal and posterior wall thickening (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively), and attenuated LV dilatation (P < 0.001), whereas iNO or TAD alone conferred less benefit. Thus, iNO+TAD has superior efficacy to limit early reperfusion injury and attenuate adverse LV remodeling. Combination of inhaled NO with a long-acting PDE5 inhibitor may represent a promising strategy to reduce ischemic damage following reperfusion and better preserve LV

  4. HIGH RESOLUTION H{alpha} IMAGES OF THE BINARY LOW-MASS PROPLYD LV 1 WITH THE MAGELLAN AO SYSTEM

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wu, Y.-L.; Close, L. M.; Males, J. R.

    2013-09-01

    We utilize the new Magellan adaptive optics system (MagAO) to image the binary proplyd LV 1 in the Orion Trapezium at H{alpha}. This is among the first AO results in visible wavelengths. The H{alpha} image clearly shows the ionization fronts, the interproplyd shell, and the cometary tails. Our astrometric measurements find no significant relative motion between components over {approx}18 yr, implying that LV 1 is a low-mass system. We also analyze Large Binocular Telescope AO observations, and find a point source which may be the embedded protostar's photosphere in the continuum. Converting the H magnitudes to mass, we show thatmore » the LV 1 binary may consist of one very-low-mass star with a likely brown dwarf secondary, or even plausibly a double brown dwarf. Finally, the magnetopause of the minor proplyd is estimated to have a radius of 110 AU, consistent with the location of the bow shock seen in H{alpha}.« less

  5. Early activation of deleterious molecular pathways in the kidney in experimental heart failure with atrial remodeling.

    PubMed

    Ichiki, Tomoko; Huntley, Brenda K; Harty, Gail J; Sangaralingham, S Jeson; Burnett, John C

    2017-05-01

    Heart failure (HF) is a major health problem with worsening outcomes when renal impairment is present. Therapeutics for early phase HF may be effective for cardiorenal protection, however the detailed characteristics of the kidney in early-stage HF (ES-HF), and therefore treatment for potential renal protection, are poorly defined. We sought to determine the gene and protein expression profiles of specific maladaptive pathways of ES-HF in the kidney and heart. Experimental canine ES-HF, characterized by de-novo HF with atrial remodeling but not ventricular fibrosis, was induced by right ventricular pacing for 10 days. Kidney cortex (KC), medulla (KM), left ventricle (LV), and left atrial (LA) tissues from ES-HF versus normal canines ( n  = 4 of each) were analyzed using RT-PCR microarrays and protein assays to assess genes and proteins related to inflammation, renal injury, apoptosis, and fibrosis. ES-HF was characterized by increased circulating natriuretic peptides and components of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and decreased sodium and water excretion with mild renal injury and up-regulation of CNP and renin genes in the kidney. Compared to normals, widespread genes, especially genes of the inflammatory pathways, were up-regulated in KC similar to increases seen in LA Protein expressions related to inflammatory cytokines were also augmented in the KC Gene and protein changes were less prominent in the LV and KM The ES-HF displayed mild renal injury with widespread gene changes and increased inflammatory cytokines. These changes may provide important clues into the pathophysiology of ES-HF and for therapeutic molecular targets in the kidney of ES-HF. © 2017 The Authors. Physiological Reports published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The Physiological Society and the American Physiological Society.

  6. Spectrum and clinical significance of systolic function and myocardial fibrosis assessed by cardiovascular magnetic resonance in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

    PubMed

    Olivotto, Iacopo; Maron, Barry J; Appelbaum, Evan; Harrigan, Caitlin J; Salton, Carol; Gibson, C Michael; Udelson, James E; O'Donnell, Christopher; Lesser, John R; Manning, Warren J; Maron, Martin S

    2010-07-15

    In hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the clinical significance attributable to the broad range of left ventricular (LV) systolic function, assessed as the ejection fraction (EF), is incompletely resolved. We evaluated the EF using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging in a large cohort of patients with HCM with respect to the clinical status and evidence of left ventricular remodeling with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). CMR imaging was performed in 310 consecutive patients, aged 42 +/- 17 years. The EF in patients with HCM was 71 +/- 10% (range 28% to 89%), exceeding that of 606 healthy controls without cardiovascular disease (66 +/- 5%, p <0.001). LGE reflecting LV remodeling showed an independent, inverse relation to the EF (B-0.69, 95% confidence interval -0.86 to -0.52; p <0.001) and was greatest in patients with an EF <50%, in whom it constituted a median value of 29% of the LV volume (interquartile range 16% to 40%). However, the substantial subgroup with low-normal EF values of 50% to 65% (n = 45; 15% of the whole cohort), who were mostly asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic (37 or 82% with New York Heart Association functional class I to II), showed substantial LGE (median 5% of LV volume, interquartile range 2% to 10%). This overlapped with the subgroup with systolic dysfunction and significantly exceeded that of patients with an EF of 66% to 75% and >75% (median 2% of the LV volume, interquartile range 1.5% to 4%; p <0.01). In conclusion, in a large cohort of patients with HCM, a subset of patients with low-normal EF values (50% to 65%) was identified by contrast-enhanced CMR imaging as having substantial degrees of LGE, suggesting a transition phase, potentially heralding advanced LV remodeling and systolic dysfunction, with implications for clinical surveillance and management. Copyright (c) 2010. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  7. Infarct size and left ventricular remodelling after preventive percutaneous coronary intervention

    PubMed Central

    Mangion, Kenneth; Carrick, David; Hennigan, Barry W; Payne, Alexander R; McClure, John; Mason, Maureen; Das, Rajiv; Wilson, Rebecca; Edwards, Richard J; Petrie, Mark C; McEntegart, Margaret; Eteiba, Hany; Oldroyd, Keith G; Berry, Colin

    2016-01-01

    Objective We hypothesised that, compared with culprit-only primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), additional preventive PCI in selected patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction with multivessel disease would not be associated with iatrogenic myocardial infarction, and would be associated with reductions in left ventricular (LV) volumes in the longer term. Methods In the preventive angioplasty in myocardial infarction trial (PRAMI; ISRCTN73028481), cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) was prespecified in two centres and performed (median, IQR) 3 (1, 5) and 209 (189, 957) days after primary PCI. Results From 219 enrolled patients in two sites, 84% underwent CMR. 42 (50%) were randomised to culprit-artery-only PCI and 42 (50%) were randomised to preventive PCI. Follow-up CMR scans were available in 72 (86%) patients. There were two (4.8%) cases of procedure-related myocardial infarction in the preventive PCI group. The culprit-artery-only group had a higher proportion of anterior myocardial infarctions (MIs) (55% vs 24%). Infarct sizes (% LV mass) at baseline and follow-up were similar. At follow-up, there was no difference in LV ejection fraction (%, median (IQR), (culprit-artery-only PCI vs preventive PCI) 51.7 (42.9, 60.2) vs 54.4 (49.3, 62.8), p=0.23), LV end-diastolic volume (mL/m2, 69.3 (59.4, 79.9) vs 66.1 (54.7, 73.7), p=0.48) and LV end-systolic volume (mL/m2, 31.8 (24.4, 43.0) vs 30.7 (23.0, 36.3), p=0.20). Non-culprit angiographic lesions had low-risk Syntax scores and 47% had non-complex characteristics. Conclusions Compared with culprit-only PCI, non-infarct-artery MI in the preventive PCI strategy was uncommon and LV volumes and ejection fraction were similar. PMID:27504003

  8. LV mechanical dispersion as a predictor of ventricular arrhythmia in patients with advanced systolic heart failure : A pilot study.

    PubMed

    Banasik, G; Segiet, O; Elwart, M; Szulik, M; Lenarczyk, R; Kalarus, Z; Kukulski, T

    2016-11-01

    Myocardial mechanical dyssynchrony induced by the presence of postinfarction scar and/or conduction abnormalities in patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of < 35 % may be associated with a greater propensity toward inducing serious ventricular arrhythmia [(ventricular tachycardia (VT), ventricular fibrillation (VF)] and sudden cardiac death. The assessment of regional myocardial function using tissue Doppler echocardiography (TDE) allows for noninvasive analysis of regional mechanical dysfunction (LV mechanical dispersion). The aim of this study was to evaluate the TDE-based mechanical dispersion as a potential echocardiographic predictor of VT/VF. The study group consisted of 47 consecutive ambulatory patients with implanted cardiac resynchronization therapy-defibrillator (CRT-D) devices who were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n = 29) comprised patients with recorded episodes of VT/VF, in whom baseline TDE data were available, and group 2 (n = 18) comprised patients without registered VT/VF in the device memory within 4 years after implantation. LV mechanical dispersion was defined as the standard deviation of the time measured from the beginning of the QRS complex to the peak longitudinal strain in apical four-chamber and two-chamber views. A retrospective quantitative assessment of LV regional deformation was based on the color tissue velocity recordings. The average time to event after implantation was 345 days. Patients with electrical events demonstrated greater mechanical dispersion: 99.14 ± 33.60 vs. 72.98 ± 19.70, p=0.002. During the 4-year follow-up, patients with documented VT/VF were characterized by significantly higher LV mechanical dispersion as compared with patients without electrical events. Measurement of LV mechanical dispersion might be helpful in determining the risk of sudden cardiac death.

  9. Comprehensive characterisation of hypertensive heart disease left ventricular phenotypes

    PubMed Central

    Rodrigues, Jonathan C L; Amadu, Antonio Matteo; Dastidar, Amardeep Ghosh; Szantho, Gergley V; Lyen, Stephen M; Godsave, Cattleya; Ratcliffe, Laura E K; Burchell, Amy E; Hart, Emma C; Hamilton, Mark C K; Nightingale, Angus K; Paton, Julian F R; Manghat, Nathan E; Bucciarelli-Ducci, Chiara

    2016-01-01

    Objective Myocardial intracellular/extracellular structure and aortic function were assessed among hypertensive left ventricular (LV) phenotypes using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR). Methods An observational study from consecutive tertiary hypertension clinic patients referred for CMR (1.5 T) was performed. Four LV phenotypes were defined: (1) normal with normal indexed LV mass (LVM) and LVM to volume ratio (M/V), (2) concentric remodelling with normal LVM but elevated M/V, (3) concentric LV hypertrophy (LVH) with elevated LVM but normal indexed end-diastolic volume (EDV) or (4) eccentric LVH with elevated LVM and EDV. Extracellular volume fraction was measured using T1-mapping. Circumferential strain was calculated by voxel-tracking. Aortic distensibility was derived from high-resolution aortic cines and contemporaneous blood pressure measurements. Results 88 hypertensive patients (49±14 years, 57% men, systolic blood pressure (SBP): 167±30 mm Hg, diastolic blood pressure (DBP): 96±14 mm Hg) were compared with 29 age-matched/sex-matched controls (47±14 years, 59% men, SBP: 128±12 mm Hg, DBP: 79±10 mm Hg). LVH resulted from increased myocardial cell volume (eccentric LVH: 78±19 mL/m2 vs concentric LVH: 73±15 mL/m2 vs concentric remodelling: 55±9 mL/m2, p<0.05, respectively) and interstitial fibrosis (eccentric LVH: 33±10 mL/m2 vs concentric LVH: 30±10 mL/m2 vs concentricremodelling: 19±2 mL/m2, p<0.05, respectively). LVH had worst circumferential impairment (eccentric LVH: −12.8±4.6% vs concentric LVH: −15.5±3.1% vs concentric remodelling: –17.1±3.2%, p<0.05, respectively). Concentric remodelling was associated with reduced aortic distensibility, but not with large intracellular/interstitial expansion or myocardial dysfunction versus controls. Conclusions Myocardial interstitial fibrosis varies across hypertensive LV phenotypes with functional consequences. Eccentric LVH has the most fibrosis and

  10. Follistatin-like 1 in Chronic Systolic Heart Failure: A Marker of Left Ventricular Remodeling

    PubMed Central

    El-Armouche, Ali; Ouchi, Noriyuki; Tanaka, Komei; Doros, Gheorghe; Wittköpper, Katrin; Schulze, Thomas; Eschenhagen, Thomas; Walsh, Kenneth; Sam, Flora

    2011-01-01

    Background Follistatin-like 1 (FSTL1) is an extracellular glycoprotein that is found in human serum. Recent work suggests that FSTL1 is secreted in response to ischemic injuries and that its overexpression is protective in the heart and vasculature. Methods and Results Here, we examined serum FSTL1 levels in patients with chronic heart failure with left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction <40% (n=86). The distribution of the sample, from these chronic heart failure patients, was separated into three tertiles of low, medium and high FSTL1 levels. Serum FSTL1 levels were increased 56% above age- and gender-matched, healthy controls. Diabetes mellitus, brain natriuretic peptide level, left atrial size, LV posterior wall thickness, LV end-diastolic diameter and LV mass were significant determinants of FSTL1 serum levels by bivariate analysis. After controlling for significant covariates, FSTL1 levels predicted LV hypertrophy (as measured by LV mass index) by multivariate linear regression analysis (P<0.001). Unadjusted survival analysis demonstrated increased mortality in patients with increasing FSTL1 levels (P=0.09). After adjusting for significant parameters, patients with increased FSTL1 remained at the highest risk of death [hazard ratio (95% confidence limits) 1.028, (0.98 and 1.78)]; (P=0.26). To determine whether elevated FSTL1 may be derived from the myocardium, FSTL1 protein expression was measured in samples from explanted, failing (n=18) and non-failing human hearts (n=7). LV failing hearts showed 2.5-fold higher FSTL1 protein levels than non-failing control hearts (P<0.05). Conclusions Elevated serum FSTL1 in human heart failure patients was associated with LV hypertrophy. Further studies on the role of FSTL1 as a biomarker in chronic systolic heart failure are warranted. PMID:21622850

  11. Is Postoperative Intensive Care Unit Care Necessary following Cranial Vault Remodeling for Sagittal Synostosis?

    PubMed

    Wolfswinkel, Erik M; Howell, Lori K; Fahradyan, Artur; Azadgoli, Beina; McComb, J Gordon; Urata, Mark M

    2017-12-01

    Of U.S. craniofacial and neurosurgeons, 94 percent routinely admit patients to the intensive care unit following cranial vault remodeling for correction of sagittal synostosis. This study aims to examine the outcomes and cost of direct ward admission following primary cranial vault remodeling for sagittal synostosis. An institutional review board-approved retrospective review was undertaken of the records of all patients who underwent primary cranial vault remodeling for isolated sagittal craniosynostosis from 2009 to 2015 at a single pediatric hospital. Patient demographics, perioperative course, and outcomes were recorded. One hundred ten patients met inclusion criteria with absence of other major medical problems. Average age at operation was 6.7 months, with a mean follow-up of 19.8 months. Ninety-eight patients (89 percent) were admitted to a general ward for postoperative care, whereas the remaining 12 (11 percent) were admitted to the intensive care unit for preoperative or perioperative concerns. Among ward-admitted patients, there were four (3.6 percent) minor complications; however, there were no major adverse events, with none necessitating intensive care unit transfers from the ward and no mortalities. Average hospital stay was 3.7 days. The institution's financial difference in cost of intensive care unit stay versus ward bed was $5520 on average per bed per day. Omitting just one intensive care unit postoperative day stay for this patient cohort would reduce projected health care costs by a total of $540,960 for the study period. Despite the common practice of postoperative admission to the intensive care unit following cranial vault remodeling for sagittal craniosynostosis, the authors suggest that postoperative care be considered on an individual basis, with only a small percentage requiring a higher level of care. Therapeutic, III.

  12. Inadequate RAAS suppression is associated with excessive left ventricular mass and systo-diastolic dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Gregori, Mario; Tocci, Giuliano; Marra, Andrea; Pignatelli, Giulia; Santolamazza, Caterina; Befani, Alberto; Ciavarella, Giuseppino Massimo; Ferrucci, Andrea; Paneni, Francesco

    2013-10-01

    Inadequate suppression of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) following postural maneuvers may have detrimental effects on cardiac structure and function. In this study, we aimed to appraise the clinical significance of this phenomenon by assessing its relation with inappropriate ventricular mass (ILVM), an adverse phenotype of LV remodeling and dysfunction. Both supine and upright plasma renin activity (PRA) and aldosterone concentrations (PAC) were measured in 115 young newly diagnosed hypertensive subjects. 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and echocardiographic evaluation including tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) were also performed. Patients were divided as follows: (1) normal PRA and PAC (N) (n = 63); (2) suppressible RAAS (SR) in supine position (n = 27); (3) not suppressible RAAS (NSR) (n = 25). ILVM was expressed as the observed/predicted LV mass ratio ×100 (%PLVM), while LV dysfunction (LVD) was identified by TDI-derived myocardial performance index (MPI). NSR showed a higher prevalence of ILVM than SR and N. As compared with N and SR, NSR patients had reduced indices of systolic and diastolic function. MPI of the LV as well as prevalence of LVD was also significantly higher in the NSR group. Regression models showed that lack of RAAS suppression was independently associated with ILVM and LVD. Prevalence of ILVM and LVD is higher in patients without clinostatic RAAS suppression. Our findings encourage the assessment of RAAS deregulation to better estimate individual cardiovascular risk in patients with arterial hypertension.

  13. Reverse remodeling is associated with changes in extracellular matrix proteases and tissue inhibitors after mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) treatment of pressure overload hypertrophy.

    PubMed

    Molina, Ezequiel J; Palma, Jon; Gupta, Dipin; Torres, Denise; Gaughan, John P; Houser, Steven; Macha, Mahender

    2009-02-01

    Changes in ventricular extracellular matrix (ECM) composition of pressure overload hypertrophy determine clinical outcomes. The effects of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation upon determinants of ECM composition in pressure overload hypertrophy have not been studied. Sprague-Dawley rats underwent aortic banding and were followed by echocardiography. After an absolute decrease in fractional shortening of 25% from baseline, 1 x 10(6) MSC (n = 28) or PBS (n = 20) was randomly injected intracoronarily. LV protein analysis, including matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-6, MMP-9) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP-1, TIMP-2, TIMP-3), was performed after sacrifice on postoperative day 7, 14, 21 or 28. Left ventricular levels of MMP-3, MMP-6, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-3 were demonstrated to be decreased in the MSC group compared with controls after 28 days. Expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 remained relatively stable in both groups. Successful MSCs delivery was confirmed by histological analysis and visualization of labelled MSCs. In this model of pressure overload hypertrophy, intracoronary delivery of MSCs during heart failure was associated with specific changes in determinants of ECM composition. LV reverse remodeling was associated with decreased ventricular levels of MMP-3, MMP-6, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-3, which were upregulated in the control group as heart failure progressed. These effects were most significant at 28 days following injection. (c) 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  14. Left Ventricular Mass and Geometry and the Risk of Ischemic Stroke

    PubMed Central

    Di Tullio, Marco R.; Zwas, Donna R.; Sacco, Ralph L.; Sciacca, Robert R.; Homma, Shunichi

    2009-01-01

    Background and Purpose Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a risk factor for cardiovascular events, but its effect on ischemic stroke risk is established mainly in whites. The effect of LV geometry on stroke risk has not been defined. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether LVH and LV geometry are independently associated with increased ischemic stroke risk in a multiethnic population. Methods A population-based case-control study was conducted on 394 patients with first ischemic stroke and 413 age-, sex-, and race-ethnicity–matched community control subjects. LV mass was measured by transthoracic echocardiography. LV geometric patterns (normal, concentric remodeling, concentric or eccentric hypertrophy) were identified. Stroke risk associated with LVH and different LV geometric patterns was assessed by conditional logistic regression analysis in the overall group and age, sex, and race-ethnic strata, with adjustment for established stroke risk factors. Results Concentric hypertrophy carried the greatest stroke risk (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 3.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.0 to 6.2), followed by eccentric hypertrophy (adjusted OR, 2.4; 95% CI, 2.0 to 4.3). Concentric remodeling carried slightly increased stroke risk (adjusted OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.0 to 2.9). Increased LV relative wall thickness was independently associated with stroke after adjustment for LV mass (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.3). Conclusions LVH and abnormal LV geometry are independently associated with increased stroke risk. LVH is strongly associated with ischemic stroke in all age, sex, and race-ethnic subgroups. Increased LV relative wall thickness imparts an increased stroke risk after adjustment for LV mass and is of additional value in stroke risk prediction. PMID:12958319

  15. Effects of nucleosome stability on remodeler-catalyzed repositioning

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Morgan, Aaron M.; LeGresley, Sarah E.; Briggs, Koan; Al-Ani, Gada; Fischer, Christopher J.

    2018-03-01

    Chromatin remodelers are molecular motors that play essential roles in the regulation of nucleosome positioning and chromatin accessibility. These machines couple the energy obtained from the binding and hydrolysis of ATP to the mechanical work of manipulating chromatin structure through processes that are not completely understood. Here we present a quantitative analysis of nucleosome repositioning by the imitation switch (ISWI) chromatin remodeler and demonstrate that nucleosome stability significantly impacts the observed activity. We show how DNA damage induced changes in the affinity of DNA wrapping within the nucleosome can affect ISWI repositioning activity and demonstrate how assay-dependent limitations can bias studies of nucleosome repositioning. Together, these results also suggest that some of the diversity seen in chromatin remodeler activity can be attributed to the variations in the thermodynamics of interactions between the remodeler, the histones, and the DNA, rather than reflect inherent properties of the remodeler itself.

  16. Control of bone remodelling by applied dynamic loads

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lanyon, L. E.; Rubin, C. T.

    1984-01-01

    The data showing the relationship between bone mass and peak strain magnitude prepared and submitted for publication. The data from experiments relating remodelling activity with static or dynamic loads were prepared and submitted for publication. Development of programs to relate the location of remodelling activity with he natural and artificial dynamic strain distributions continued. Experiments on the effect of different strain rates on the remodelling response continued.

  17. Valve sparing aortic replacement - root remodeling.

    PubMed

    Lausberg, Henning F; Schäfers, Hans-Joachim

    2006-01-01

    Aortic root remodeling restores aortic root geometry and improves valve competence. We have used this technique whenever aorto-ventricular diameter is preserved. The operative technique is detained in this presentation. As a result of our 10-year experience with root remodeling we propose this operation as a reproducible option for patients with dilatation of the aortic root.

  18. Low-intensity interval exercise training attenuates coronary vascular dysfunction and preserves Ca2+-sensitive K+ current in miniature swine with LV hypertrophy

    PubMed Central

    Tharp, Darla L.; Ivey, Jan R.; Ganjam, Venkataseshu K.; Bowles, Douglas K.

    2011-01-01

    Coronary vascular dysfunction has been observed in several models of heart failure (HF). Recent evidence indicates that exercise training is beneficial for patients with HF, but the precise intensity and underlying mechanisms are unknown. Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy can play a significant role in the development of HF; therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the effects of low-intensity interval exercise training on coronary vascular function in sedentary (HF) and exercise trained (HF-TR) aortic-banded miniature swine displaying LV hypertrophy. Six months postsurgery, in vivo coronary vascular responses to endothelin-1 (ET-1) and adenosine were measured in the left anterior descending coronary artery. Baseline and maximal coronary vascular conductance were similar between all groups. ET-1-induced reductions in coronary vascular conductance (P < 0.05) were greater in HF vs. sedentary control and HF-TR groups. Pretreatment with the ET type A (ETA) receptor blocker BQ-123 prevented ET-1 hypersensitivity in HF animals. Whole cell voltage clamp was used to characterize composite K+ currents (IK+) in coronary smooth muscle cells. Raising internal Ca2+ from 200 to 500 nM increased Ca2+-sensitive K+ current in HF-TR and control, but not HF animals. In conclusion, an ETA-receptor-mediated hypersensitivity to ET-1, elevated resting LV wall tension, and decreased coronary smooth muscle cell Ca2+-sensitive IK+ was found in sedentary animals with LV hypertrophy. Low-intensity interval exercise training preserved normal coronary vascular function and smooth muscle cell Ca2+-sensitive IK+, illustrating a potential mechanism underlying coronary vascular dysfunction in a large-animal model of LV hypertrophy. Our results demonstrate the potential clinical impact of exercise on coronary vascular function in HF patients displaying pathological LV hypertrophy. PMID:21841018

  19. Controlled release metoprolol for aortic regurgitation: a randomised clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Broch, Kaspar; Urheim, Stig; Lønnebakken, Mai Tone; Stueflotten, Wenche; Massey, Richard; Fosså, Kristian; Hopp, Einar; Aakhus, Svend; Gullestad, Lars

    2016-02-01

    Chronic aortic regurgitation (AR) creates a volume load on the left ventricle, which induces adaptive responses. With time, excessive left ventricular (LV) dilatation may precipitate heart failure. β-adrenergic receptor antagonists (β-blockers) are beneficial in patients with heart failure, but their effect in AR is unclear. This trial was designed to evaluate the effect of controlled release metoprolol on LV remodelling in patients with AR. In this double blind trial, 75 asymptomatic patients aged 44±14 years, 89% males, fulfilling at least two echocardiographic criteria for moderate or severe chronic AR, were randomised to receive metoprolol CR/XL up-titrated to 200 mg/day, or matching placebo. The primary endpoint was LV end diastolic volume, measured by MRI after 6 months of treatment. After 6 months, the difference in the baseline-adjusted LV end diastolic volume between patients allocated to metoprolol and those allocated to placebo was 8 (95% CI -8 to 25) mL (p=0.32). The adjusted LV ejection fraction was 2.7 (95% CI 0.1 to 5.3) percentage points higher in the metoprolol group than in the placebo group (p=0.04). The exercise capacity and peak oxygen consumption did not differ between treatment arms. Serum concentrations of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide were 138 (95% CI 71 to 205) pg/mL higher in the metoprolol group (p<0.001). There were no serious adverse events in either treatment arm. Treatment with metoprolol of adults with chronic, moderate to severe AR had no effect on LV volumes. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01157572-results. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

  20. Vascular remodeling: A redox-modulated mechanism of vessel caliber regulation.

    PubMed

    Tanaka, Leonardo Y; Laurindo, Francisco R M

    2017-08-01

    Vascular remodeling, i.e. whole-vessel structural reshaping, determines lumen caliber in (patho)physiology. Here we review mechanisms underlying vessel remodeling, with emphasis in redox regulation. First, we discuss confusing terminology and focus on strictu sensu remodeling. Second, we propose a mechanobiological remodeling paradigm based on the concept of tensional homeostasis as a setpoint regulator. We first focus on shear-mediated models as prototypes of remodeling closely dominated by highly redox-sensitive endothelial function. More detailed discussions focus on mechanosensors, integrins, extracellular matrix, cytoskeleton and inflammatory pathways as potential of mechanisms potentially coupling tensional homeostasis to redox regulation. Further discussion of remodeling associated with atherosclerosis and injury repair highlights important aspects of redox vascular responses. While neointima formation has not shown consistent responsiveness to antioxidants, vessel remodeling has been more clearly responsive, indicating that despite the multilevel redox signaling pathways, there is a coordinated response of the whole vessel. Among mechanisms that may orchestrate redox pathways, we discuss roles of superoxide dismutase activity and extracellular protein disulfide isomerase. We then discuss redox modulation of aneurysms, a special case of expansive remodeling. We propose that the redox modulation of vascular remodeling may reflect (1) remodeling pathophysiology is dominated by a particularly redox-sensitive cell type, e.g., endothelial cells (2) redox pathways are temporospatially coordinated at an organ level across distinct cellular and acellular structures or (3) the tensional homeostasis setpoint is closely connected to redox signaling. The mechanobiological/redox model discussed here can be a basis for improved understanding of remodeling and helps clarifying mechanisms underlying prevalent hard-to-treat diseases. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All

  1. Astakine LvAST binds to the β subunit of F1-ATP synthase and likely plays a role in white shrimp Litopeneaus vannamei defense against white spot syndrome virus.

    PubMed

    Liang, Gao-Feng; Liang, Yan; Xue, Qinggang; Lu, Jin-Feng; Cheng, Jun-Jun; Huang, Jie

    2015-03-01

    Cytokines play a critical role in innate and adaptive immunity. Astakines represent a group of invertebrate cytokines that are related to vertebrate prokineticin and function in promoting hematopoiesis in crustaceans. We have identified an astakine from the white shrimp Litopeneaus vannamei and named it LvAST in a previous research. In the present research, we investigated the interactions among LvAST, the envelope protein VP37 of white spot syndrome virus (i.e., WSSV), and the β subunit of F1-ATP synthase (ATPsyn-β) of the white shrimp (i.e., BP53) using binding assays and co-precipitations. We also examined the effects of LvAST on shrimp susceptibility to WSSV. We found that LvAST and VP37 competitively bound to BP53, but did not bind to each other. Shrimps that had been injected with recombinant LvAST exhibited significantly lower mortality and longer survival time in experimental infections by WSSV. In contrast, shrimps whose LvAST gene expression had been inhibited by RNA interference showed significantly higher WSSV infection intensity and shorter survival time following viral challenges. These results suggested that LvAST and WSSV both likely use ATPsyn-β as a receptor and LvAST plays a role in shrimp defense against WSSV infection. This represented the first research showing the involvement of astakines in host antiviral immunity. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Precise identification of endogenous proviruses of NFS/N mice participating in recombination with moloney ecotropic murine leukemia virus (MuLV) to generate polytropic MuLVs.

    PubMed

    Alamgir, A S M; Owens, Nick; Lavignon, Marc; Malik, Frank; Evans, Leonard H

    2005-04-01

    Polytropic murine leukemia viruses (MuLVs) are generated by recombination of ecotropic MuLVs with env genes of a family of endogenous proviruses in mice, resulting in viruses with an expanded host range and greater virulence. Inbred mouse strains contain numerous endogenous proviruses that are potential donors of the env gene sequences of polytropic MuLVs; however, the precise identification of those proviruses that participate in recombination has been elusive. Three different structural groups of proviruses in NFS/N mice have been described and different ecotropic MuLVs preferentially recombine with different groups of proviruses. In contrast to other ecotropic MuLVs such as Friend MuLV or Akv that recombine predominantly with a single group of proviruses, Moloney MuLV (M-MuLV) recombines with at least two distinct groups. In this study, we determined that only three endogenous proviruses, two of one group and one of another group, are major participants in recombination with M-MuLV. Furthermore, the distinction between the polytropic MuLVs generated by M-MuLV and other ecotropic MuLVs is the result of recombination with a single endogenous provirus. This provirus exhibits a frameshift mutation in the 3' region of the surface glycoprotein-encoding sequences that is excluded in recombinants with M-MuLV. The sites of recombination between the env genes of M-MuLV and endogenous proviruses were confined to a short region exhibiting maximum homology between the ecotropic and polytropic env sequences and maximum stability of predicted RNA secondary structure. These observations suggest a possible mechanism for the specificity of recombination observed for different ecotropic MuLVs.

  3. Krill oil attenuates left ventricular dilatation after myocardial infarction in rats.

    PubMed

    Fosshaug, Linn E; Berge, Rolf K; Beitnes, Jan O; Berge, Kjetil; Vik, Hogne; Aukrust, Pål; Gullestad, Lars; Vinge, Leif E; Øie, Erik

    2011-12-29

    In the western world, heart failure (HF) is one of the most important causes of cardiovascular mortality. Supplement with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) has been shown to improve cardiac function in HF and to decrease mortality after myocardial infarction (MI). The molecular structure and composition of n-3 PUFA varies between different marine sources and this may be of importance for their biological effects. Krill oil, unlike fish oil supplements, contains the major part of the n-3 PUFA in the form of phospholipids. This study investigated effects of krill oil on cardiac remodeling after experimental MI. Rats were randomised to pre-treatment with krill oil or control feed 14 days before induction of MI. Seven days post-MI, the rats were examined with echocardiography and rats in the control group were further randomised to continued control feed or krill oil feed for 7 weeks before re-examination with echocardiography and euthanization. The echocardiographic evaluation showed significant attenuation of LV dilatation in the group pretreated with krill oil compared to controls. Attenuated heart weight, lung weight, and levels of mRNA encoding classical markers of LV stress, matrix remodeling and inflammation reflected these findings. The total composition of fatty acids were examined in the left ventricular (LV) tissue and all rats treated with krill oil showed a significantly higher proportion of n-3 PUFA in the LV tissue, although no difference was seen between the two krill oil groups. Supplement with krill oil leads to a proportional increase of n-3 PUFA in myocardial tissue and supplement given before induction of MI attenuates LV remodeling.

  4. Age- and Sex-Related Influences on Left Ventricular Mechanics in Elderly Individuals Free of Prevalent Heart Failure: The ARIC Study (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities).

    PubMed

    Hung, Chung-Lieh; Gonçalves, Alexandra; Shah, Amil M; Cheng, Susan; Kitzman, Dalane; Solomon, Scott D

    2017-01-01

    Advanced age is related to left ventricular (LV) remodeling. We sought to investigate the relationships between aging, elevated hemodynamic load, cardiac mechanics, and LV remodeling in an elderly community-based population. We studied 1105 subjects (76±5 years, 61% women) without prevalent heart failure, who attended the visit 5 of the ARIC study (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities). LV global longitudinal strain, global circumferential strain, and torsion indices were analyzed using 3-dimensional echocardiography. Advanced age was associated with greater LV concentricity, lower myocardial diastolic relaxation, reduced global longitudinal strain (adjusted estimate, 0.39±0.19% (SE)/decade; P=0.038), borderline greater global circumferential strain (adjusted estimate, -0.59±0.36% (SE)/decade; P=0.08), and higher torsion indices (adjusted estimate for torsion, 0.33±0.04° (SE)/decade; P<0.001). In addition, greater concentricity was associated with decreased global longitudinal strain and greater torsion in multivariable models (all P<0.001). Women showed smaller LV cavity size, greater concentricity, lower myocardial relaxation velocity E', though demonstrated greater global longitudinal strain, global circumferential strain, and torsion than men (all P<0.05). Overall, subjects with hypertension and increasing age were more likely to have higher torsion, though the association between advanced age and greater torsion was more pronounced in women than in men (both interaction P<0.05). In an asymptomatic, senescent community-dwelling population, we observed a distinct, sex-specific pattern of cardiac remodeling. Although we observed worse diastolic and longitudinal function with advanced age or elevated load in both sexes, a significant increase of torsion was more pronounced in women. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

  5. Chromatin remodelling: the industrial revolution of DNA around histones.

    PubMed

    Saha, Anjanabha; Wittmeyer, Jacqueline; Cairns, Bradley R

    2006-06-01

    Chromatin remodellers are specialized multi-protein machines that enable access to nucleosomal DNA by altering the structure, composition and positioning of nucleosomes. All remodellers have a catalytic ATPase subunit that is similar to known DNA-translocating motor proteins, suggesting DNA translocation as a unifying aspect of their mechanism. Here, we explore the diversity and specialization of chromatin remodellers, discuss how nucleosome modifications regulate remodeller activity and consider a model for the exposure of nucleosomal DNA that involves the use of directional DNA translocation to pump 'DNA waves' around the nucleosome.

  6. A 35-month profilometric and clinical evaluation of non-ablative remodeling using a 1540-nm Er:glass laser.

    PubMed

    Fournier, Nathalie; Lagarde, Jean Michel; Turlier, Virginie; Courrech, Laetitia; Mordon, Serge

    2004-11-01

    As remodeling is getting more popular with patients, long-term studies are becoming necessary. The aim of this 35-month clinical study was to evaluate the long-term benefits obtained using a 1540-nm Er:glass laser for non-ablative remodeling of perioral and periorbital rhytids. The role of maintenance treatments was also investigated. Eleven women with periorbital and perioral rhytids underwent a series of five treatments at 6-week intervals with an Er:glass laser. Five patients subsequently received two maintenance retreatments and six did not. The maintenance treatments were performed at 14 and 20 months. Silicone imprints were performed to measure anisotropy before treatment, at 6 months, at 14 months and at 35 months. Patient self-evaluation/questionnaire was also done to assess adverse effects and subjective clinical improvement. For all 11 patients, the percentage of anisotropy reduction was 41.21% at 6 months, 51.76% at 14 months and 29.87% at 35 months. No adverse effects were noted. Patient satisfaction was high at the end of the evaluation. Retreated patients were more satisfied than non-retreated ones. However, there was no difference in the anisotropy factor between the two groups. Treatment of facial rhytids with a non-ablative 1540-nm Er:glass laser system can produce benefits that persist over 2 years after the last treatment.

  7. Direct implantation versus platelet-rich fibrin-embedded adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in treating rat acute myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Sun, Cheuk-Kwan; Zhen, Yen-Yi; Leu, Steve; Tsai, Tzu-Hsien; Chang, Li-Teh; Sheu, Jiunn-Jye; Chen, Yung-Lung; Chua, Sarah; Chai, Han-Tan; Lu, Hung-I; Chang, Hsueh-Wen; Lee, Fan-Yen; Yip, Hon-Kan

    2014-05-15

    This study tested whether adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSC) embedded in platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) scaffold is superior to direct ADMSC implantation in improving left ventricular (LV) performance and reducing LV remodeling in a rat acute myocardial infarction (AMI) model of left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) ligation. Twenty-eight male adult Sprague Dawley rats equally divided into group 1 [sham control], group 2 (AMI only), group 3 (AMI+direct ADMSC implantation), and group 4 (AMI+PRF-embedded autologous ADMSC) were sacrificed on day 42 after AMI. LV systolic and diastolic dimensions and volumes, and infarct/fibrotic areas were highest in group 2, lowest in group 1 and significantly higher in group 3 than in group 4, whereas LV performance and LV fractional shortening exhibited a reversed pattern (p<0.005). Protein expressions of inflammation (oxidative stress, IL-1β, MMP-9), apoptosis (mitochondrial Bax, cleaved PARP), fibrosis (Smad3, TGF-β), and pressure-overload biomarkers (BNP, MHC-β) displayed a pattern similar to that of LV dimensions, whereas anti-inflammatory (IL-10), anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2), and anti-fibrotic (Smad1/5, BMP-2) indices showed a pattern similar to that of LV performance among the four groups (all p<0.05). Angiogenesis biomarkers at protein (CXCR4, SDF-1α, VEGF), cellular (CD31+, CXCR4+, SDF-1α+), and immunohistochemical (small vessels) levels, and cardiac stem cell markers (C-kit+, Sca-1+) in infarct myocardium were highest in group 4, lowest in group 1, and significantly higher in group 3 than in group 2 (all p<0.005). PRF-embedded ADMSC is superior to direct ADMSC implantation in preserving LV function and attenuating LV remodeling. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  8. Transspecies Transmission of Gammaretroviruses and the Origin of the Gibbon Ape Leukaemia Virus (GaLV) and the Koala Retrovirus (KoRV).

    PubMed

    Denner, Joachim

    2016-12-20

    Transspecies transmission of retroviruses is a frequent event, and the human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) is a well-known example. The gibbon ape leukaemia virus (GaLV) and koala retrovirus (KoRV), two gammaretroviruses, are also the result of a transspecies transmission, however from a still unknown host. Related retroviruses have been found in Southeast Asian mice although the sequence similarity was limited. Viruses with a higher sequence homology were isolated from Melomys burtoni , the Australian and Indonesian grassland melomys. However, only the habitats of the koalas and the grassland melomys in Australia are overlapping, indicating that the melomys virus may not be the precursor of the GaLV. Viruses closely related to GaLV/KoRV were also detected in bats. Therefore, given the fact that the habitats of the gibbons in Thailand and the koalas in Australia are far away, and that bats are able to fly over long distances, the hypothesis that retroviruses of bats are the origin of GaLV and KoRV deserves consideration. Analysis of previous transspecies transmissions of retroviruses may help to evaluate the potential of transmission of related retroviruses in the future, e.g., that of porcine endogenous retroviruses (PERVs) during xenotransplantation using pig cells, tissues or organs.

  9. Association of Right Ventricular Pressure and Volume Overload with Non-Ischemic Septal Fibrosis on Cardiac Magnetic Resonance.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jiwon; Medicherla, Chaitanya B; Ma, Claudia L; Feher, Attila; Kukar, Nina; Geevarghese, Alexi; Goyal, Parag; Horn, Evelyn; Devereux, Richard B; Weinsaft, Jonathan W

    2016-01-01

    Non-ischemic fibrosis (NIF) on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) has been linked to poor prognosis, but its association with adverse right ventricular (RV) remodeling is unknown. This study examined a broad cohort of patients with RV dysfunction, so as to identify relationships between NIF and RV remodeling indices, including RV pressure load, volume and wall stress. The population comprised patients with RV dysfunction (EF<50%) undergoing CMR and transthoracic echo within a 14 day (5 ± 3) interval. Cardiac structure, function, and NIF were assessed on CMR. Pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) was measured on echo. 118 patients with RV dysfunction were studied, among whom 47% had NIF. Patients with NIF had lower RVEF (34 ± 10 vs. 39 ± 9%; p = 0.01) but similar LVEF (40 ± 21 vs. 39 ± 18%; p = 0.7) and LV volumes (p = NS). RV wall stress was higher with NIF (17 ± 7 vs. 12 ± 6 kPa; p < 0.001) corresponding to increased RV end-systolic volume (143 ± 79 vs. 110 ± 36 ml; p = 0.006), myocardial mass (60 ± 21 vs. 53 ± 17 gm; p = 0.04), and PASP (52 ± 18 vs. 41 ± 18 mmHg; p = 0.001). NIF was associated with increased wall stress among subgroups with isolated RV (p = 0.005) and both RV and LV dysfunction (p = 0.003). In multivariable analysis, NIF was independently associated with RV volume (OR = 1.17 per 10 ml, [CI 1.04-1.32]; p = 0.01) and PASP (OR = 1.43 per 10 mmHg, [1.14-1.81]; p = 0.002) but not RV mass (OR = 0.91 per 10 gm, [0.69-1.20]; p = 0.5) [model χ2 = 21; p<0.001]. NIF prevalence was higher in relation to PA pressure and RV dilation and was > 6-fold more common in the highest, vs. the lowest, common tertile of PASP and RV size (p<0.001). Among wall stress components, NIF was independently associated with RV chamber dilation and afterload, supporting the concept that NIF is linked to adverse RV chamber remodeling.

  10. Association of Right Ventricular Pressure and Volume Overload with Non-Ischemic Septal Fibrosis on Cardiac Magnetic Resonance

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Jiwon; Medicherla, Chaitanya B.; Ma, Claudia L.; Feher, Attila; Kukar, Nina; Geevarghese, Alexi; Goyal, Parag; Horn, Evelyn; Devereux, Richard B.; Weinsaft, Jonathan W.

    2016-01-01

    Background Non-ischemic fibrosis (NIF) on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) has been linked to poor prognosis, but its association with adverse right ventricular (RV) remodeling is unknown. This study examined a broad cohort of patients with RV dysfunction, so as to identify relationships between NIF and RV remodeling indices, including RV pressure load, volume and wall stress. Methods and Results The population comprised patients with RV dysfunction (EF<50%) undergoing CMR and transthoracic echo within a 14 day (5±3) interval. Cardiac structure, function, and NIF were assessed on CMR. Pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) was measured on echo. 118 patients with RV dysfunction were studied, among whom 47% had NIF. Patients with NIF had lower RVEF (34±10 vs. 39±9%; p = 0.01) but similar LVEF (40±21 vs. 39±18%; p = 0.7) and LV volumes (p = NS). RV wall stress was higher with NIF (17±7 vs. 12±6 kPa; p<0.001) corresponding to increased RV end-systolic volume (143±79 vs. 110±36 ml; p = 0.006), myocardial mass (60±21 vs. 53±17 gm; p = 0.04), and PASP (52±18 vs. 41±18 mmHg; p = 0.001). NIF was associated with increased wall stress among subgroups with isolated RV (p = 0.005) and both RV and LV dysfunction (p = 0.003). In multivariable analysis, NIF was independently associated with RV volume (OR = 1.17 per 10 ml, [CI 1.04–1.32]; p = 0.01) and PASP (OR = 1.43 per 10 mmHg, [1.14–1.81]; p = 0.002) but not RV mass (OR = 0.91 per 10 gm, [0.69–1.20]; p = 0.5) [model χ2 = 21; p<0.001]. NIF prevalence was higher in relation to PA pressure and RV dilation and was > 6-fold more common in the highest, vs. the lowest, common tertile of PASP and RV size (p<0.001). Conclusion Among wall stress components, NIF was independently associated with RV chamber dilation and afterload, supporting the concept that NIF is linked to adverse RV chamber remodeling. PMID:26799498

  11. The chromatin remodeler SPLAYED regulates specific stress signaling pathways.

    PubMed

    Walley, Justin W; Rowe, Heather C; Xiao, Yanmei; Chehab, E Wassim; Kliebenstein, Daniel J; Wagner, Doris; Dehesh, Katayoon

    2008-12-01

    Organisms are continuously exposed to a myriad of environmental stresses. Central to an organism's survival is the ability to mount a robust transcriptional response to the imposed stress. An emerging mechanism of transcriptional control involves dynamic changes in chromatin structure. Alterations in chromatin structure are brought about by a number of different mechanisms, including chromatin modifications, which covalently modify histone proteins; incorporation of histone variants; and chromatin remodeling, which utilizes ATP hydrolysis to alter histone-DNA contacts. While considerable insight into the mechanisms of chromatin remodeling has been gained, the biological role of chromatin remodeling complexes beyond their function as regulators of cellular differentiation and development has remained poorly understood. Here, we provide genetic, biochemical, and biological evidence for the critical role of chromatin remodeling in mediating plant defense against specific biotic stresses. We found that the Arabidopsis SWI/SNF class chromatin remodeling ATPase SPLAYED (SYD) is required for the expression of selected genes downstream of the jasmonate (JA) and ethylene (ET) signaling pathways. SYD is also directly recruited to the promoters of several of these genes. Furthermore, we show that SYD is required for resistance against the necrotrophic pathogen Botrytis cinerea but not the biotrophic pathogen Pseudomonas syringae. These findings demonstrate not only that chromatin remodeling is required for selective pathogen resistance, but also that chromatin remodelers such as SYD can regulate specific pathways within biotic stress signaling networks.

  12. Left ventricular mechanics in humans with high aerobic fitness: adaptation independent of structural remodelling, arterial haemodynamics and heart rate

    PubMed Central

    Stöhr, Eric J; McDonnell, Barry; Thompson, Jane; Stone, Keeron; Bull, Tom; Houston, Rory; Cockcroft, John; Shave, Rob

    2012-01-01

    Individuals with high aerobic fitness have lower systolic left ventricular strain, rotation and twist (‘left ventricular (LV) mechanics’) at rest, suggesting a beneficial reduction in LV myofibre stress and more efficient systolic function. However, the mechanisms responsible for this functional adaptation are not known and the influence of aerobic fitness on LV mechanics during dynamic exercise has never been studied. We assessed LV mechanics, LV wall thickness and dimensions, central augmentation index (AIx), aortic pulse wave velocity (aPWV), blood pressure and heart rate in 28 males (age: 21 ± 2 years SD) with a consistent physical activity level (no change >6 months). Individuals were examined at rest and during exercise (40% peak exercise capacity) and separated post hoc into a moderate and high aerobic fitness group (: 49 ± 5 and 63 ± 7 ml kg−1 min−1, respectively, P < 0.0001). At rest and during exercise, there were no significant differences in gross LV structure, AIx, blood pressure or heart rate (P > 0.05). However, for the same AIx, the high group had significantly lower LV apical rotation (P = 0.002) and LV twist (P = 0.003) while basal rotation and strain indices did not differ between groups (P > 0.05). We conclude that young males with high aerobic fitness have lower LV apical rotation at rest and during submaximal exercise that can occur without changes in gross LV structure, arterial haemodynamics or heart rate. The findings suggest a previously unknown type of physiological adaptation of the left ventricle that may have important implications for exercise training in older individuals and patient populations in which exercise training has previously failed to show clear benefits for LV function. PMID:22431336

  13. Acetylcholine beyond bronchoconstriction: roles in inflammation and remodeling.

    PubMed

    Kistemaker, Loes E M; Gosens, Reinoud

    2015-03-01

    Acetylcholine is the primary parasympathetic neurotransmitter in the airways, where it not only induces bronchoconstriction and mucus secretion, but also regulates airway inflammation and remodeling. In this review, we propose that these effects are all primarily mediated via the muscarinic M3 receptor. Acetylcholine promotes inflammation and remodeling via direct effects on airway cells, and via mechanical stress applied to the airways sequential to bronchoconstriction. The effects on inflammation and remodeling are regulated by both neuronal and non-neuronal acetylcholine. Taken together, we believe that the combined effects of anticholinergic therapy on M3-mediated bronchoconstriction, mucus secretion, inflammation, and remodeling may account for the positive outcome of treatment with these drugs for patients with chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD) or asthma. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Quantitative Differentiation of LV Myocardium with and without Layer-Specific Fibrosis Using MRI in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Layer-Specific Strain TTE Analysis.

    PubMed

    Funabashi, Nobusada; Takaoka, Hiroyuki; Ozawa, Koya; Kamata, Tomoko; Uehara, Masae; Komuro, Issei; Kobayashi, Yoshio

    2018-05-30

    To achieve further risk stratification in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients, we localized and quantified layer-specific LVM fibrosis on MRI in HCM patients using regional layer-specific peak longitudinal strain (PLS) and peak circumferential strain (PCS) in LV myocardium (LVM) on speckle tracking transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). A total of 18 HCM patients (14 males; 58 ± 17 years) underwent 1.5T-MRI and TTE. PLS and PCS in each layer of the LVM (endocardium, epicardium, and whole-layer myocardium) were calculated for 17 AHA-defined lesions. MRI assessment showed that fibrosis was classified as endocardial, epicardial, or whole-layer (= either or both of these). Regional PLS was smaller in fibrotic endocardial lesions than in non-fibrotic endocardial lesions (P = 0.004). To detect LV endocardial lesions with fibrosis, ROC curves of regional PLS revealed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.609 and a best cut-off point of 13.5%, with sensitivity of 65.3% and specificity of 54.3%. Regional PLS was also smaller in fibrotic epicardial lesions than in non-fibrotic epicardial lesions (P < 0.001). To detect LV epicardial lesions with fibrosis, ROC curves of PLS revealed an AUC of 0.684 and a best cut-off point of 9.5%, with sensitivity of 73.5% and specificity of 55.5%. Using whole-layer myocardium analysis, PLS was smaller in fibrotic lesions than in non-fibrotic lesions (P < 0.001). To detect whole-layer LV lesions with fibrosis, ROC curves of regional PLS revealed an AUC of 0.674 and a best cut-off point of 12.5%, with sensitivity of 79.0% and specificity of 50.7%. There were no significant differences in PCS of LV myocardium (endocardium, epicardium, and whole-layer) between fibrotic and non-fibrotic lesions. Quantitative regional PLS but not PCS in LV endocardium, epicardium, and whole-layer myocardium provides useful non-invasive information for layer-specific localization of fibrosis in HCM patients.

  15. An Analysis of the Residential Remodeling Occupation.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Scruggs, Kenneth

    The general purpose of the occupational analysis is to provide workable, basic information dealing with the many and varied duties performed in the residential remodeling occupation. The analysis only briefly covers the many areas of residential remodeling. The document opens with a brief introduction followed by a job description. The bulk of the…

  16. Simulation of LV pacemaker lead in marginal vein: potential risk factors for acute dislodgement.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Xuefeng; Burger, Mike; Liu, Yi; Das, Mithilesh K; Combs, William; Wenk, Jonathan F; Guccione, Julius M; Kassab, Ghassan S

    2011-03-01

    Although left ventricular (LV) coronary sinus lead dislodgement remains a problem, the risk factors for dislodgement have not been clearly defined. In order to identify potential risk factors for acute lead dislodgement, we conducted dynamic finite element simulations of pacemaker lead dislodgement in marginal LV vein. We considered factors such as mismatch in lead and vein diameters, velocity of myocardial motion, branch angle between the insertion vein and the coronary sinus, degree of slack, and depth of insertion. The results show that large lead-to-vein diameter mismatch, rapid myocardial motion, and superficial insertion are potential risk factors for lead dislodgement. In addition, the degree of slack presents either a positive or negative effect on dislodgement risk depending on the branch angle. The prevention of acute lead dislodgment can be enforced by inducing as much static friction force as possible at the lead-vein interface, while reducing the external force. If the latter exceeds the former, dislodgement will occur. The present findings underscore the major risk factors for lead dislodgment, which may improve implantation criterion and future lead design.

  17. Upregulation of GLUT-4 in right ventricle of rats with monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension.

    PubMed

    Broderick, Tom L; King, Tiffany M

    2008-12-01

    Pulmonary hypertension is characterized by abnormal vascular remodeling leading to occlusion of pulmonary arteries and increased stress placed on the right ventricle (RV). This causes the RV to hypertrophy and eventually to failure. This study was designed to examine the effects of pulmonary hypertension in rats on right ventricular remodeling and glucose transporter protein (GLUT4) content in right (RV) and left ventricle (LV). Pulmonary hypertension was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rat by a single subcutaneous injection of monocrotaline (MCT) at the concentration of 60 mg/kg. Forty-six days following the injection of MCT, animals were sacrificed. MCT-treated rats displayed significant increases in lung weight and RV weight. Marked RV hypertrophy was evident as the ratio of the RV to LV plus septum weight was nearly 40% higher in MCT-treated rats compared to control rats. Total GLUT4 content from whole homogenates from the RV was increased by approximately 28% in MCT-treated hearts compared to control hearts. No differences, however, in the LV content between groups were observed. Our findings indicate that the structural remodeling of the RV in MCT-induced pulmonary hypertension results in the upregulation of glucose transporters. This increase in RV GLUT4 levels may potentially result in alterations in substrate energy metabolism.

  18. Serological survey of Toxoplasma gondii, Dirofilaria immitis, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) infections in pet cats in Bangkok and vicinities, Thailand.

    PubMed

    Sukhumavasi, Woraporn; Bellosa, Mary L; Lucio-Forster, Araceli; Liotta, Janice L; Lee, Alice C Y; Pornmingmas, Pitcha; Chungpivat, Sudchit; Mohammed, Hussni O; Lorentzen, Leif; Dubey, J P; Bowman, Dwight D

    2012-08-13

    The seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii, Dirofilaria immitis (heartworm), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infections was examined using serum or plasma samples from 746 pet cats collected between May and July 2009 from clinics and hospitals located in and around Bangkok, Thailand. The samples were tested for heartworm, FIV, and FeLV using a commercial ELISA. Of the 746 samples, 4.6% (34/746) were positive for heartworm antigen, 24.5% (183/746) had circulating FeLV antigen, and 20.1% (150/746) had antibodies against FIV. In addition, the first 348 submitted samples were tested for T. gondii antibodies using a modified agglutination test (MAT, cut off 1:25); 10.1% (35/348) were seropositive. Of the 348 cats sampled for all four pathogens, 11, 10, and 1 were positive for T. gondii antibodies and FIV antibodies, FeLV antigen, or D. immitis antigen, respectively. Of the 35 T. gondii-seropositive cats, 42.9% (15/35) were co-infected with at least one of the other three pathogens. The presence of antibodies to FIV was significantly associated with both age and gender, while FeLV antigen presence was only associated with age. In the case of FIV, males were twice as likely to be infected as females, and cats over 10 years of age were 13.5 times more likely to be infected than cats less than 1 year of age. FeLV antigen was more common in younger cats, with cats over 10 years of age being 10 times less likely to be FeLV positive than cats under 1 year of age. This is the first survey for these four pathogens affecting feline health in Thailand. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  19. The Chromatin Remodeler SPLAYED Regulates Specific Stress Signaling Pathways

    PubMed Central

    Walley, Justin W.; Rowe, Heather C.; Xiao, Yanmei; Chehab, E. Wassim; Kliebenstein, Daniel J.; Wagner, Doris; Dehesh, Katayoon

    2008-01-01

    Organisms are continuously exposed to a myriad of environmental stresses. Central to an organism's survival is the ability to mount a robust transcriptional response to the imposed stress. An emerging mechanism of transcriptional control involves dynamic changes in chromatin structure. Alterations in chromatin structure are brought about by a number of different mechanisms, including chromatin modifications, which covalently modify histone proteins; incorporation of histone variants; and chromatin remodeling, which utilizes ATP hydrolysis to alter histone-DNA contacts. While considerable insight into the mechanisms of chromatin remodeling has been gained, the biological role of chromatin remodeling complexes beyond their function as regulators of cellular differentiation and development has remained poorly understood. Here, we provide genetic, biochemical, and biological evidence for the critical role of chromatin remodeling in mediating plant defense against specific biotic stresses. We found that the Arabidopsis SWI/SNF class chromatin remodeling ATPase SPLAYED (SYD) is required for the expression of selected genes downstream of the jasmonate (JA) and ethylene (ET) signaling pathways. SYD is also directly recruited to the promoters of several of these genes. Furthermore, we show that SYD is required for resistance against the necrotrophic pathogen Botrytis cinerea but not the biotrophic pathogen Pseudomonas syringae. These findings demonstrate not only that chromatin remodeling is required for selective pathogen resistance, but also that chromatin remodelers such as SYD can regulate specific pathways within biotic stress signaling networks. PMID:19079584

  20. RosettaRemodel: A Generalized Framework for Flexible Backbone Protein Design

    PubMed Central

    Huang, Po-Ssu; Ban, Yih-En Andrew; Richter, Florian; Andre, Ingemar; Vernon, Robert; Schief, William R.; Baker, David

    2011-01-01

    We describe RosettaRemodel, a generalized framework for flexible protein design that provides a versatile and convenient interface to the Rosetta modeling suite. RosettaRemodel employs a unified interface, called a blueprint, which allows detailed control over many aspects of flexible backbone protein design calculations. RosettaRemodel allows the construction and elaboration of customized protocols for a wide range of design problems ranging from loop insertion and deletion, disulfide engineering, domain assembly, loop remodeling, motif grafting, symmetrical units, to de novo structure modeling. PMID:21909381

  1. Transient severe left ventricular dysfunction following percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure in an adult with bicuspid aortic valve: A case report

    PubMed Central

    HWANG, HUI-JEONG; YOON, KYUNG LIM; SOHN, IL SUK

    2016-01-01

    The present study reported the case of a 60-year-old female with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and a bicuspid aortic valve, who presented with transient severe left ventricular (LV) dysfunction following percutaneous closure of PDA, as identified by speckle tracking analysis. Transient LV dysfunction following PDA closure has previously been reported; however, severe LV dysfunction is rare. In the present case, the combination of a large PDA size, large amount of shunting, LV remodeling and bicuspid aortic valve may have induced serious deterioration of LV function following PDA closure. Furthermore, speckle-tracking echocardiography may be useful in the estimation of functional alterations in the myocardium of the LV following PDA closure. The observations detailed in the present study may improve the understanding of the pathophysiology and myocardial patterns of transient left ventricular dysfunction following PDA closure in adult humans. PMID:26998021

  2. Transient severe left ventricular dysfunction following percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure in an adult with bicuspid aortic valve: A case report.

    PubMed

    Hwang, Hui-Jeong; Yoon, Kyung Lim; Sohn, Il Suk

    2016-03-01

    The present study reported the case of a 60-year-old female with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and a bicuspid aortic valve, who presented with transient severe left ventricular (LV) dysfunction following percutaneous closure of PDA, as identified by speckle tracking analysis. Transient LV dysfunction following PDA closure has previously been reported; however, severe LV dysfunction is rare. In the present case, the combination of a large PDA size, large amount of shunting, LV remodeling and bicuspid aortic valve may have induced serious deterioration of LV function following PDA closure. Furthermore, speckle-tracking echocardiography may be useful in the estimation of functional alterations in the myocardium of the LV following PDA closure. The observations detailed in the present study may improve the understanding of the pathophysiology and myocardial patterns of transient left ventricular dysfunction following PDA closure in adult humans.

  3. Comparative effects of valsartan in combination with cilnidipine or amlodipine on cardiac remodeling and diastolic dysfunction in Dahl salt-sensitive rats.

    PubMed

    Nagasawa, Kai; Takahashi, Keiji; Matsuura, Natsumi; Takatsu, Miwa; Hattori, Takuya; Watanabe, Shogo; Harada, Eri; Niinuma, Kazumi; Murohara, Toyoaki; Nagata, Kohzo

    2015-01-01

    Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are often supplemented with calcium channel blockers (CCBs) for treatment of hypertension. We recently showed that the L/N-type CCB cilnidipine has superior cardioprotective effects compared with the L-type CCB amlodipine in Dahl salt-sensitive (DS) rats. We have now compared the effects of the ARB valsartan combined with cilnidipine or amlodipine on cardiac pathophysiology in DS rats. DS rats fed a high-salt diet from 6 weeks of age were treated with vehicle, valsartan alone (10 mg kg(-1) per day), or valsartan combined with either cilnidipine (1 mg kg(-1) per day) or amlodipine (1 mg kg(-1) per day) from 7 to 11 weeks. The salt-induced increase in systolic blood pressure apparent in the vehicle group was attenuated similarly in the three drug treatment groups. Valsartan-cilnidipine attenuated left ventricular (LV) fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction as well as cardiac oxidative stress and inflammation to a greater extent than did valsartan alone or valsartan-amlodipine. In addition, the increases in urinary excretion of dopamine and epinephrine as well as in cardiac renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system (RAAS) gene expression apparent in vehicle-treated rats were attenuated to a greater extent by valsartan-cilnidipine than by the other two treatments. Valsartan-cilnidipine thus attenuated LV remodeling and diastolic dysfunction more effectively than did valsartan or valsartan-amlodipine in rats with salt-sensitive hypertension, and this superior cardioprotective action of valsartan-cilnidipine compared with valsartan-amlodipine is likely attributable, at least in part, to the greater antioxidant and antiinflammatory effects associated with both greater inhibition of cardiac RAAS gene expression and N-type calcium channel blockade.

  4. Chronic activation of the low affinity site of β1-adrenoceptors stimulates haemodynamics but exacerbates pressure-overload cardiac remodelling

    PubMed Central

    Kiriazis, Helen; Tugiono, Niquita; Xu, Qi; Gao, Xiao-Ming; Jennings, Nicole L; Ming, Ziqui; Su, Yidan; Klenowski, Paul; Summers, Roger J; Kaumann, Alberto; Molenaar, Peter; Du, Xiao-Jun

    2013-01-01

    BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The β1-adrenoceptor has at least two binding sites, high and low affinity sites (β1H and β1L, respectively), which mediate cardiostimulation. While β1H-adrenoceptor can be blocked by all clinically used β-blockers, β1L-adrenoceptor is relatively resistant to blockade. Thus, chronic β1L-adrenoceptor activation may mediate persistent cardiostimulation, despite the concurrent blockade of β1H-adrenoceptors. Hence, it is important to determine the potential significance of β1L-adrenoceptors in vivo, particularly in pathological situations. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH C57Bl/6 male mice were used. Chronic (4 or 8 weeks) β1L-adrenoceptor activation was achieved by treatment, via osmotic mini pumps, with (-)-CGP12177 (10 mg·kg−1·day−1). Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography and micromanometry. KEY RESULTS (-)-CGP12177 treatment of healthy mice increased heart rate and left ventricular (LV) contractility. (-)-CGP12177 treatment of mice subjected to transverse aorta constriction (TAC), during weeks 4–8 or 4–12 after TAC, led to a positive inotropic effect and exacerbated fibrogenic signalling while cardiac hypertrophy tended to be more severe. (-)-CGP12177 treatment of mice with TAC also exacerbated the myocardial expression of hypertrophic, fibrogenic and inflammatory genes compared to untreated TAC mice. Washout of (-)-CGP12177 revealed a more pronounced cardiac dysfunction after 12 weeks of TAC. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS β1L-adrenoceptor activation provides functional support to the heart, in both normal and pathological (pressure overload) situations. Sustained β1L-adrenoceptor activation in the diseased heart exacerbates LV remodelling and therefore may promote disease progression from compensatory hypertrophy to heart failure. PMID:23750586

  5. Mitral regurgitation: anatomy is destiny.

    PubMed

    Athanasuleas, Constantine L; Stanley, Alfred W H; Buckberg, Gerald D

    2018-04-26

    Mitral regurgitation (MR) occurs when any of the valve and ventricular mitral apparatus components are disturbed. As MR progresses, left ventricular remodelling occurs, ultimately causing heart failure when the enlarging left ventricle (LV) loses its conical shape and becomes globular. Heart failure and lethal ventricular arrhythmias may develop if the left ventricular end-systolic volume index exceeds 55 ml/m2. These adverse changes persist despite satisfactory correction of the annular component of MR. Our goal was to describe this process and summarize evolving interventions that reduce the volume of the left ventricle and rebuild its elliptical shape. This 'valve/ventricle' approach addresses the spherical ventricular culprit and offsets the limits of treating MR by correcting only its annular component.

  6. Potential Adverse Cardiovascular Effects From Excessive Endurance Exercise

    PubMed Central

    O'Keefe, James H.; Patil, Harshal R.; Lavie, Carl J.; Magalski, Anthony; Vogel, Robert A.; McCullough, Peter A.

    2012-01-01

    A routine of regular exercise is highly effective for prevention and treatment of many common chronic diseases and improves cardiovascular (CV) health and longevity. However, long-term excessive endurance exercise may induce pathologic structural remodeling of the heart and large arteries. Emerging data suggest that chronic training for and competing in extreme endurance events such as marathons, ultramarathons, ironman distance triathlons, and very long distance bicycle races, can cause transient acute volume overload of the atria and right ventricle, with transient reductions in right ventricular ejection fraction and elevations of cardiac biomarkers, all of which return to normal within 1 week. Over months to years of repetitive injury, this process, in some individuals, may lead to patchy myocardial fibrosis, particularly in the atria, interventricular septum, and right ventricle, creating a substrate for atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. Additionally, long-term excessive sustained exercise may be associated with coronary artery calcification, diastolic dysfunction, and large-artery wall stiffening. However, this concept is still hypothetical and there is some inconsistency in the reported findings. Furthermore, lifelong vigorous exercisers generally have low mortality rates and excellent functional capacity. Notwithstanding, the hypothesis that long-term excessive endurance exercise may induce adverse CV remodeling warrants further investigation to identify at-risk individuals and formulate physical fitness regimens for conferring optimal CV health and longevity. PMID:22677079

  7. Establishment of a novel feline leukemia virus (FeLV)-negative B-cell cell line from a cat with B-cell lymphoma.

    PubMed

    Mochizuki, Hiroyuki; Takahashi, Masashi; Nishigaki, Kazuo; Ide, Tetsuya; Goto-Koshino, Yuko; Watanabe, Shinya; Sato, Hirofumi; Sato, Masahiko; Kotera, Yukiko; Fujino, Yasuhito; Ohno, Koichi; Uchida, Kazuyuki; Tsujimoto, Hajime

    2011-04-15

    We established a novel feline B-cell line, MS4, from the neoplastic pleural effusion of a cat with cutaneous B-cell lymphoma. Immunophenotype staining of the MS4 cells was positive for CD20, CD79α, and IgA and negative for CD3, CD4, CD5, CD8α, CD18, CD21, CD22, IgM, IgG, Ig light chain, and MHC class II. PCR analysis for immunoglobulin heavy chain gene rearrangements revealed a monoclonal rearrangement, whereas no clonal rearrangement of the T-cell receptor γ gene was detected. Southern blotting with an exogenous feline leukemia virus (FeLV) U3 probe revealed no integration of exogenous FeLV provirus. The MS4 cell line is the first FeLV-negative feline B-cell lymphoma cell line, and may be used to investigate the pathogenesis of spontaneously occurring feline lymphoma and the development of new therapies. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Fetal cardiac remodeling in twin pregnancy conceived by assisted reproductive technology.

    PubMed

    Valenzuela-Alcaraz, B; Cruz-Lemini, M; Rodríguez-López, M; Goncé, A; García-Otero, L; Ayuso, H; Sitges, M; Bijnens, B; Balasch, J; Gratacós, E; Crispi, F

    2018-01-01

    Recent data suggest that singleton fetuses conceived by assisted reproductive technology (ART) present cardiovascular remodeling that may persist postnatally. Twin pregnancies are more frequent in the ART population and are associated with increased adverse perinatal outcomes, such as hypertensive disorders, gestational diabetes and preterm birth. However, it is unknown whether cardiac remodeling is also present in twin pregnancies conceived by ART. Our aim was to assess the presence of fetal cardiac remodeling and dysfunction in twin pregnancies conceived by ART as compared with those conceived spontaneously (SC). This was a prospective cohort study including 50 dichorionic twin fetuses conceived by ART and 50 SC twin fetuses. The study protocol included collection of baseline/perinatal data and a fetal ultrasound examination at 28-30 weeks' gestation, including assessment of estimated fetal weight, fetoplacental Doppler and fetal echocardiography. Measurements of atrial area, atrial/heart ratio, ventricular sphericity index, free wall thickness, mitral and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursions, and systolic and early diastolic peak velocities were assessed. Multilevel analyses were used to compare perinatal and ultrasonographic parameters. Comparisons of echocardiographic variables were adjusted for parental age, paternal body mass index and incidence of pre-eclampsia. Compared with SC twins, ART twin fetuses showed significant cardiac changes, predominantly affecting the right heart, such as dilated atria (right atrial/heart area: 15.7 ± 3.1 vs 18.4 ± 3.2, P < 0.001), more globular ventricles (right ventricular sphericity index: 1.57 ± 0.25 vs 1.41 ± 0.23, P = 0.001) and thicker myocardial walls (septal wall thickness: 2.57 ± 0.45 mm vs 2.84 ± 0.41 mm, P = 0.034) together with reduced longitudinal motion (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion: 6.36 ± 0.89 mm vs 5.18 ± 0.93 mm, P < 0

  9. Association of Thoracic Aorta Calcium Score With Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis After Aortic Valve Replacement.

    PubMed

    Cho, In-Jeong; Chang, Hyuk-Jae; Heo, Ran; Kim, In-Cheol; Sung, Ji Min; Chang, Byung-Chul; Shim, Chi Young; Hong, Geu-Ru; Chung, Namsik

    2017-01-01

    Substantial aortic calcification is known to be associated with aortic stiffening and subsequent left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy. This study examined whether the thoracic aorta calcium score (TACS) is related to LV hypertrophy and whether it leads to an adverse prognosis in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) after aortic valve replacement (AVR). We retrospectively reviewed 47 patients (mean age, 64 ± 11 years) with isolated severe AS who underwent noncontrast computed tomography of the entire thoracic aorta and who received AVR. TACS was quantified using the volume method with values becoming log transformed ( log [TACS+1]). Transthoracic echocardiography was performed before and 1 year after the operation. Preoperative LV mass index (LVMI) displayed significant positive correlations with male gender (r = 0.430, p = 0.010) and log (TACS+1) (r = 0.556, p = 0.003). In multivariate linear regression analysis, only log (TACS+1) was independently associated with LVMI, even after adjusting for age, gender, transaortic mean pressure gradient, and coronary or valve calcium score. Independent determinants for postoperative LVMI included log (TACS+1) and preoperative LVMI after 1 year of follow-up echocardiography, adjusting for age, gender, indexed effective orifice area, and coronary or valve calcium score. During a median follow-up period of 54 months after AVR, there were 10 events (21%), which included 4 deaths from all-causes, 3 strokes, 2 inpatient admissions for heart failure, and 1 myocardial infarction. The event-free survival rate was significantly lower for patients with TACS of 2,257 mm 3 or higher compared with those whose TACS was lower than 2,257 mm 3 (log-rank p < 0.001). High TACS was associated with increased LVMI among patients with severe AS. Further, high TACS usefully predicted less regression of LVMI and poor clinical outcomes after AVR. TACS may serve as a useful proxy for predicting LV remodeling and adverse prognosis in patients

  10. ATP-dependent chromatin assembly is functionally distinct from chromatin remodeling

    PubMed Central

    Torigoe, Sharon E; Patel, Ashok; Khuong, Mai T; Bowman, Gregory D; Kadonaga, James T

    2013-01-01

    Chromatin assembly involves the combined action of ATP-dependent motor proteins and histone chaperones. Because motor proteins in chromatin assembly also function as chromatin remodeling factors, we investigated the relationship between ATP-driven chromatin assembly and chromatin remodeling in the generation of periodic nucleosome arrays. We found that chromatin remodeling-defective Chd1 motor proteins are able to catalyze ATP-dependent chromatin assembly. The resulting nucleosomes are not, however, spaced in periodic arrays. Wild-type Chd1, but not chromatin remodeling-defective Chd1, can catalyze the conversion of randomly-distributed nucleosomes into periodic arrays. These results reveal a functional distinction between ATP-dependent nucleosome assembly and chromatin remodeling, and suggest a model for chromatin assembly in which randomly-distributed nucleosomes are formed by the nucleosome assembly function of Chd1, and then regularly-spaced nucleosome arrays are generated by the chromatin remodeling activity of Chd1. These findings uncover an unforeseen level of specificity in the role of motor proteins in chromatin assembly. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.00863.001 PMID:23986862

  11. ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling in T cells

    PubMed Central

    Wurster, Andrea L.; Pazin, Michael J.

    2012-01-01

    One of the best studied systems for mammalian chromatin remodeling is transcriptional regulation during T cell development. The variety of these studies have led to important findings in T cell gene regulation and cell fate determination. Importantly, these findings have also advanced our knowledge of the function of remodeling enzymes in mammalian gene regulation. In this review, first we briefly present biochemical/cell-free analysis of 3 types of ATP dependent remodeling enzymes (SWI/SNF, Mi2, and ISWI), to construct an intellectual framework to understand how these enzymes might be working. Second, we compare and contrast the function of these enzymes, during early (thymic) and late (peripheral) T cell development. Finally, we examine some of the gaps in our present understanding. PMID:21999456

  12. ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling in T cells.

    PubMed

    Wurster, Andrea L; Pazin, Michael J

    2012-02-01

    One of the best studied systems for mammalian chromatin remodeling is transcriptional regulation during T cell development. The variety of these studies have led to important findings in T cell gene regulation and cell fate determination. Importantly, these findings have also advanced our knowledge of the function of remodeling enzymes in mammalian gene regulation. First we briefly present biochemical and cell-free analysis of 3 types of ATP dependent remodeling enzymes (SWI/SNF, Mi2, and ISWI) to construct an intellectual framework to understand how these enzymes might be working. Second, we compare and contrast the function of these enzymes during early (thymic) and late (peripheral) T cell development. Finally, we examine some of the gaps in our present understanding.

  13. Effect of Sex and Sporting Discipline on LV Adaptation to Exercise.

    PubMed

    Finocchiaro, Gherardo; Dhutia, Harshil; D'Silva, Andrew; Malhotra, Aneil; Steriotis, Alexandros; Millar, Lynne; Prakash, Keerthi; Narain, Rajay; Papadakis, Michael; Sharma, Rajan; Sharma, Sanjay

    2017-09-01

    This study sought to investigate the effect of different types of exercise on left ventricular (LV) geometry in a large group of female and male athletes. Studies assessing cardiac adaptation in female and male athletes indicate that female athletes reveal smaller increases in LV wall thickness and cavity size compared with male athletes. However, data on sex-specific changes in LV geometry in athletes are scarce. A total of 1,083 healthy, elite, white athletes (41% female; mean age 21.8 ± 5.7 years) assessed with electrocardiogram and echocardiogram were considered. LV geometry was classified into 4 groups according to relative wall thickness (RWT) and left ventricular mass (LVM) as per European and American Society of Echocardiography guidelines: normal (normal LVM/normal RWT), concentric hypertrophy (increased LVM/increased RWT), eccentric hypertrophy (increased LVM/normal RWT), and concentric remodeling (normal LVM/increased RWT). Athletes were engaged in 40 different sporting disciplines with similar participation rates with respect to the type of exercise between females and males. Females exhibited lower LVM (83 ± 17 g/m 2 vs. 101 ± 21 g/m 2 ; p < 0.001) and RWT (0.35 ± 0.05 vs. 0.36 ± 0.05; p < 0.001) compared with male athletes. Females also demonstrated lower absolute LV dimensions (49 ± 4 mm vs. 54 ± 5 mm; p < 0.001) but following correction for body surface area, the indexed LV dimensions were greater in females (28.6 ± 2.7 mm/m 2 vs. 27.2 ± 2.7 mm/m 2 ; p < 0.001). Most athletes showed normal LV geometry. A greater proportion of females competing in dynamic sport exhibited eccentric hypertrophy compared with males (22% vs. 14%; p < 0.001). In this subgroup only 4% of females compared with 15% of males demonstrated concentric hypertrophy/remodeling (p < 0.001). Highly trained athletes generally show normal LV geometry; however, female athletes participating in dynamic sport often exhibit eccentric hypertrophy. Although concentric

  14. Restrictive annuloplasty to treat functional mitral regurgitation: optimize the restriction to improve the results?

    PubMed

    Totaro, Pasquale; Adragna, Nicola; Argano, Vincenzo

    2008-03-01

    Today, the 'gold standard' treatment of functional mitral regurgitation (MR) is the subject of much discussion. Although restrictive annuloplasty is currently considered the most reproducible technique, the means by which the degree of annular restriction is optimized remains problematic. The study was designed in order to identify whether the degree of restriction of the mitral annulus could influence early and midterm results following the treatment of functional MR using restrictive annuloplasty. A total of 32 consecutive patients with functional MR grade > or = 3+ was enrolled, among whom the mean anterior-posterior (AP) mitral annulus diameter was 39 +/- 3 mm. Restrictive mitral annuloplasty (combined with coronary artery bypass grafting) was performed in all patients using a Carpentier-Edwards Classic or Physio ring (size 26 or 28). The degree of AP annular restriction was calculated for each patient, and correlated with early and mid-term residual MR and left ventricular (LV) reverse remodeling (in terms of LV end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) and LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) reduction). All surviving patients were examined at a one-year follow up. The mean AP mitral annulus restriction achieved was 48 +/- 4%. Intraoperatively, transesophageal echocardiography showed no residual MR in any patient. Before discharge from hospital, transthoracic echocardiography confirmed an absence of residual MR and showed significant LV reverse remodeling (LVEDV from 121 +/- 25 ml to 97 +/- 26 ml; LVEDD from 55 +/- 6 mm to 47 +/- 8 mm). A significant correlation (r = 0.57, p < 0.001) was identified between the degree of AP annulus restriction and LVEDV reduction. A cut-off of annular restriction of 40% (based on AP annulus measurement) correlated with a more significant reverse remodeling. The early postoperative data, with no recurrence of significant MR, was confirmed at a one-year follow up examination. A marked restriction of the AP mitral annulus diameter (> 40% of

  15. Whole-genome sequence of Erysipelothrix larvae LV19(T) (=KCTC 33523(T)), a useful strain for arsenic detoxification, from the larval gut of the rhinoceros beetle, Trypoxylus dichotomus.

    PubMed

    Lim, Sooyeon; Rhee, Moon-Soo; Chang, Dong-Ho; Kim, Byoung-Chan

    2016-04-10

    Erysipelothrix larvae LV19(T) was preliminary isolated from the larval gut of a rhinoceros beetle, Trypoxylus dichotomus in Korea. Here, we present the whole genome sequence of E. larvae LV19(T) strain, which consisted of 2,511,486 base pairs with a GC content of 37.4% and one plasmid. Unlike other Erysipelothrix strains (SY 1027, Fujisawa and ATCC 19414), the arsenic-resistance genes were identified in LV19(T) strain. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  16. Differential coronary resistance microvessel remodeling between type 1 and type 2 diabetic mice: impact of exercise training.

    PubMed

    Trask, Aaron J; Delbin, Maria A; Katz, Paige S; Zanesco, Angelina; Lucchesi, Pamela A

    2012-01-01

    The goals of the present study were to compare coronary resistance microvessel (CRM) remodeling between type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mice, and to determine the impact of aerobic exercise training on CRM remodeling in diabetes. Eight week old male mice were divided into T1DM: control sedentary (Control-SD), T1DM sedentary (T1DM-SD) induced by streptozotocin, and T1DM exercise trained (T1DM-TR); T2DM: control sedentary (Db/db-SD), T2DM sedentary (db/db-SD), and T2DM trained (db/db-TR). Aerobic exercise training (TR) was performed on a mouse treadmill for 8weeks. CRMs were isolated and mounted on a pressure myograph to measure and record vascular remodeling and mechanics. CRM diameters, wall thickness, stress-strain, incremental modulus remained unchanged in T1DM-SD mice compared to control, and exercise training showed no effect. In contrast, CRMs isolated from db/db-SD mice exhibited decreased luminal diameter with thicker microvascular walls, which significantly increased the wall:lumen ratio (Db/db-SD: 5.8±0.3 vs. db/db-SD: 8.9±0.7, p<0.001). Compared to db/db-SD mice, coronary arterioles isolated from db/db-TR mice had similar internal diameter and wall thickness, while wall:lumen ratio (6.8±0.2, p<0.05) and growth index (db/db-SD: 16.2 vs. db/db-TR: 4.3, % over Db/db) were reduced. These data show that CRMs undergo adverse inward hypertrophic remodeling only in T2DM, but not T1DM, and that aerobic exercise training can partially mitigate this process. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Impact of Iron Deficiency on Response to and Remodeling After Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy.

    PubMed

    Martens, Pieter; Verbrugge, Frederik; Nijst, Petra; Dupont, Matthias; Tang, W H Wilson; Mullens, Wilfried

    2017-01-01

    Iron deficiency is prevalent in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and relates to symptomatic status, readmission, and all-cause mortality. The relation between iron status and response to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) remains insufficiently elucidated. This study assesses the impact of iron deficiency on clinical response and reverse cardiac remodeling and outcome after CRT. Baseline characteristics, change in New York Heart Association functional class, reverse cardiac remodeling on echocardiography, and clinical outcome (i.e., all-cause mortality and heart failure readmissions) were retrospectively evaluated in consecutive CRT patients who had full iron status and complete blood count available at implantation, implanted at a single tertiary care center with identical dedicated multidisciplinary CRT follow-up from October 2008 to August 2015. A total of 541 patients were included with mean follow-up of 38 ± 22 months. Prevalence of iron deficiency was 56% at implantation. Patients with iron deficiency exhibited less symptomatic improvement 6 months after implantation (p value <0.001). In addition, both the decrease in left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (-3.1 vs -6.2 mm; p value = 0.011) and improvement in ejection fraction (+11% vs +15%, p value = 0.001) were significantly lower in patients with iron deficiency. Iron deficiency was significantly associated with an increased risk for heart failure admission or all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 1.718, 95% confidence interval 1.178 to 2.506), irrespectively of the presence of anemia (Hemoglobin <12 g/dl in women and <13 g/dl in men). In conclusion, iron deficiency is prevalent and affects both clinical response and reverse cardiac remodeling after CRT implantation. Moreover, it is a powerful predictor of adverse clinical outcomes in CRT. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Low-intensity interval exercise training attenuates coronary vascular dysfunction and preserves Ca²⁺-sensitive K⁺ current in miniature swine with LV hypertrophy.

    PubMed

    Emter, Craig A; Tharp, Darla L; Ivey, Jan R; Ganjam, Venkataseshu K; Bowles, Douglas K

    2011-10-01

    Coronary vascular dysfunction has been observed in several models of heart failure (HF). Recent evidence indicates that exercise training is beneficial for patients with HF, but the precise intensity and underlying mechanisms are unknown. Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy can play a significant role in the development of HF; therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the effects of low-intensity interval exercise training on coronary vascular function in sedentary (HF) and exercise trained (HF-TR) aortic-banded miniature swine displaying LV hypertrophy. Six months postsurgery, in vivo coronary vascular responses to endothelin-1 (ET-1) and adenosine were measured in the left anterior descending coronary artery. Baseline and maximal coronary vascular conductance were similar between all groups. ET-1-induced reductions in coronary vascular conductance (P < 0.05) were greater in HF vs. sedentary control and HF-TR groups. Pretreatment with the ET type A (ET(A)) receptor blocker BQ-123 prevented ET-1 hypersensitivity in HF animals. Whole cell voltage clamp was used to characterize composite K(+) currents (I(K(+))) in coronary smooth muscle cells. Raising internal Ca(2+) from 200 to 500 nM increased Ca(2+)-sensitive K(+) current in HF-TR and control, but not HF animals. In conclusion, an ET(A)-receptor-mediated hypersensitivity to ET-1, elevated resting LV wall tension, and decreased coronary smooth muscle cell Ca(2+)-sensitive I(K(+)) was found in sedentary animals with LV hypertrophy. Low-intensity interval exercise training preserved normal coronary vascular function and smooth muscle cell Ca(2+)-sensitive I(K(+)), illustrating a potential mechanism underlying coronary vascular dysfunction in a large-animal model of LV hypertrophy. Our results demonstrate the potential clinical impact of exercise on coronary vascular function in HF patients displaying pathological LV hypertrophy.

  19. 77 FR 21620 - Notice of the Buy America Waiver Request for Vossloh 101-LV Concrete Ties

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-04-10

    ... the Buy America Waiver Request for Vossloh 101-LV Concrete Ties AGENCY: Federal Railroad... concrete ties, which contain certain components not manufactured in the United States. In furtherance of... concrete ties. FRA has received this request from the four States for the following projects: (a) The...

  20. Effect of Toxoplasma lysate antigen (TLA) on feline cytotoxicity against FeLV positive lymphoma cells.

    PubMed

    Yang, M P; Goitsuka, R; Ono, K; Suzuki, N; Hasegawa, A

    1990-08-01

    The cytotoxic activities of feline spleen cells treated with Toxoplasma lysate antigen (TLA) were assayed against feline leukemia virus (FeLV)-producing lymphoma. FL74 cells, and xenogeneic target lymphoma, mouse YAC-1 cells. The TLA treatments were performed in vivo alone, in vitro alone, and in vivo plus in vitro, respectively. In vivo plus in vitro treatments with TLA induced a marked augmentation in cytotoxic activity of spleen cells to FL74 cells. The treatment with TLA in vivo alone showed an enhancement of cytotoxic activity but in vitro alone did not. The cytotoxic effects of TLA-treated spleen cells obtained from the cats which had been previously immunized with live FL74 cells were similar to those of spleen cells from non-immunized cats treated with TLA. However, no increase of cytotoxicity was shown in the response to mouse YAC-1 cells regardless of TLA treatments. These results indicated that the in vivo TLA treatment augmented the cytotoxicity of feline spleen cells against FeLV-producing lymphoma cell.

  1. Retinal Remodeling in Human Retinitis Pigmentosa

    PubMed Central

    Jones, B.W.; Pfeiffer, R.L.; Ferrell, W. D.; Watt, C.B.; Marmor, M.; Marc, R.E.

    2016-01-01

    Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) in the human is a progressive, currently irreversible neural degenerative disease usually caused by gene defects that disrupt the function or architecture of the photoreceptors. While RP can initially be a disease of photoreceptors, there is increasing evidence that the inner retina becomes progressively disorganized as the outer retina degenerates. These alterations have been extensively described in animal models, but remodeling in humans has not been as well characterized. This study, using computational molecular phenotyping (CMP) seeks to advance our understanding of the retinal remodeling process in humans. We describe cone mediated preservation of overall topology, retinal reprogramming in the earliest stages of the disease in retinal bipolar cells, and alterations in both small molecule and protein signatures of neurons and glia. Furthermore, while Müller glia appear to be some of the last cells left in the degenerate retina, they are also one of the first cell classes in the neural retina to respond to stress which may reveal mechanisms related to remodeling and cell death in other retinal cell classes. Also fundamentally important is the finding that retinal network topologies are altered. Our results suggest interventions that presume substantial preservation of the neural retina will likely fail in late stages of the disease. Even early intervention offers no guarantee that the interventions will be immune to progressive remodeling. Fundamental work in the biology and mechanisms of disease progression are needed to support vision rescue strategies. PMID:27020758

  2. User-initialized active contour segmentation and golden-angle real-time cardiovascular magnetic resonance enable accurate assessment of LV function in patients with sinus rhythm and arrhythmias.

    PubMed

    Contijoch, Francisco; Witschey, Walter R T; Rogers, Kelly; Rears, Hannah; Hansen, Michael; Yushkevich, Paul; Gorman, Joseph; Gorman, Robert C; Han, Yuchi

    2015-05-21

    Data obtained during arrhythmia is retained in real-time cardiovascular magnetic resonance (rt-CMR), but there is limited and inconsistent evidence to show that rt-CMR can accurately assess beat-to-beat variation in left ventricular (LV) function or during an arrhythmia. Multi-slice, short axis cine and real-time golden-angle radial CMR data was collected in 22 clinical patients (18 in sinus rhythm and 4 patients with arrhythmia). A user-initialized active contour segmentation (ACS) software was validated via comparison to manual segmentation on clinically accepted software. For each image in the 2D acquisitions, slice volume was calculated and global LV volumes were estimated via summation across the LV using multiple slices. Real-time imaging data was reconstructed using different image exposure times and frame rates to evaluate the effect of temporal resolution on measured function in each slice via ACS. Finally, global volumetric function of ectopic and non-ectopic beats was measured using ACS in patients with arrhythmias. ACS provides global LV volume measurements that are not significantly different from manual quantification of retrospectively gated cine images in sinus rhythm patients. With an exposure time of 95.2 ms and a frame rate of > 89 frames per second, golden-angle real-time imaging accurately captures hemodynamic function over a range of patient heart rates. In four patients with frequent ectopic contractions, initial quantification of the impact of ectopic beats on hemodynamic function was demonstrated. User-initialized active contours and golden-angle real-time radial CMR can be used to determine time-varying LV function in patients. These methods will be very useful for the assessment of LV function in patients with frequent arrhythmias.

  3. Association of masked hypertension and left ventricular remodeling with the hypertensive response to exercise.

    PubMed

    Sharman, James E; Hare, James L; Thomas, Scott; Davies, Justin E; Leano, Rodel; Jenkins, Carly; Marwick, Thomas H

    2011-08-01

    A hypertensive response to exercise (HRE; defined as normal clinic blood pressure (BP) and exercise systolic BP (SBP) ≥210 mm Hg in men or ≥190 mm Hg in women, or diastolic BP (DBP) ≥105 mm Hg) independently predicts mortality. The mechanisms remain unclear but may be related to masked hypertension. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of masked hypertension and its association with cardiovascular risk factors, including left ventricular (LV) mass, in patients with a HRE. Comprehensive clinical and echocardiographic evaluation (including central BP, aortic pulse wave velocity by tonometry) and 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) were performed in 72 untreated patients with HRE (aged 54 ± 9 years; 60% male; free from coronary artery disease confirmed by exercise stress echocardiography). Masked hypertension was defined according to guidelines as daytime ABPM ≥135/85 mm Hg and clinic BP <140/90 mm Hg. Masked hypertension was present in 42 patients (58%). These patients had higher LV mass index (41.5 ± 8.7 g/m(2.7) vs. 35.9 ± 8.5 g/m(2.7); P = 0.01), LV relative wall thickness (RWT; 0.42 ± 0.09 vs. 0.37 ± 0.06; P = 0.004) and exercise SBP (222 ± 17 mm Hg vs. 212 ± 14 mm Hg; P = 0.01), but no significant difference in aortic pulse wave velocity or central pulse pressure (P > 0.05 for both). The strongest independent determinant of LV mass index was the presence of masked hypertension (unstandardized β = 5.6; P = 0.007), which was also independently related to LV RWT (unstandardized β = 0.04; P = 0.03). Masked hypertension is highly prevalent in HRE patients with a normal resting office BP and is associated with increased LV mass index and RWT. Clinicians should consider measuring ABPM or home BP in HRE patients.

  4. High- and moderate-intensity training normalizes ventricular function and mechanoenergetics in mice with diet-induced obesity.

    PubMed

    Hafstad, Anne D; Lund, Jim; Hadler-Olsen, Elin; Höper, Anje C; Larsen, Terje S; Aasum, Ellen

    2013-07-01

    Although exercise reduces several cardiovascular risk factors associated with obesity/diabetes, the metabolic effects of exercise on the heart are not well-known. This study was designed to investigate whether high-intensity interval training (HIT) is superior to moderate-intensity training (MIT) in counteracting obesity-induced impairment of left ventricular (LV) mechanoenergetics and function. C57BL/6J mice with diet-induced obesity (DIO mice) displaying a cardiac phenotype with altered substrate utilization and impaired mechanoenergetics were subjected to a sedentary lifestyle or 8-10 weeks of isocaloric HIT or MIT. Although both modes of exercise equally improved aerobic capacity and reduced obesity, only HIT improved glucose tolerance. Hearts from sedentary DIO mice developed concentric LV remodeling with diastolic and systolic dysfunction, which was prevented by both HIT and MIT. Both modes of exercise also normalized LV mechanical efficiency and mechanoenergetics. These changes were associated with altered myocardial substrate utilization and improved mitochondrial capacity and efficiency, as well as reduced oxidative stress, fibrosis, and intracellular matrix metalloproteinase 2 content. As both modes of exercise equally ameliorated the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy by preventing LV remodeling and mechanoenergetic impairment, this study advocates the therapeutic potential of physical activity in obesity-related cardiac disorders.

  5. High- and Moderate-Intensity Training Normalizes Ventricular Function and Mechanoenergetics in Mice With Diet-Induced Obesity

    PubMed Central

    Hafstad, Anne D.; Lund, Jim; Hadler-Olsen, Elin; Höper, Anje C.; Larsen, Terje S.; Aasum, Ellen

    2013-01-01

    Although exercise reduces several cardiovascular risk factors associated with obesity/diabetes, the metabolic effects of exercise on the heart are not well-known. This study was designed to investigate whether high-intensity interval training (HIT) is superior to moderate-intensity training (MIT) in counteracting obesity-induced impairment of left ventricular (LV) mechanoenergetics and function. C57BL/6J mice with diet-induced obesity (DIO mice) displaying a cardiac phenotype with altered substrate utilization and impaired mechanoenergetics were subjected to a sedentary lifestyle or 8–10 weeks of isocaloric HIT or MIT. Although both modes of exercise equally improved aerobic capacity and reduced obesity, only HIT improved glucose tolerance. Hearts from sedentary DIO mice developed concentric LV remodeling with diastolic and systolic dysfunction, which was prevented by both HIT and MIT. Both modes of exercise also normalized LV mechanical efficiency and mechanoenergetics. These changes were associated with altered myocardial substrate utilization and improved mitochondrial capacity and efficiency, as well as reduced oxidative stress, fibrosis, and intracellular matrix metalloproteinase 2 content. As both modes of exercise equally ameliorated the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy by preventing LV remodeling and mechanoenergetic impairment, this study advocates the therapeutic potential of physical activity in obesity-related cardiac disorders. PMID:23493573

  6. Extracellular Matrix Degradation and Remodeling in Development and Disease

    PubMed Central

    Lu, Pengfei; Takai, Ken; Weaver, Valerie M.; Werb, Zena

    2011-01-01

    The extracellular matrix (ECM) serves diverse functions and is a major component of the cellular microenvironment. The ECM is a highly dynamic structure, constantly undergoing a remodeling process where ECM components are deposited, degraded, or otherwise modified. ECM dynamics are indispensible during restructuring of tissue architecture. ECM remodeling is an important mechanism whereby cell differentiation can be regulated, including processes such as the establishment and maintenance of stem cell niches, branching morphogenesis, angiogenesis, bone remodeling, and wound repair. In contrast, abnormal ECM dynamics lead to deregulated cell proliferation and invasion, failure of cell death, and loss of cell differentiation, resulting in congenital defects and pathological processes including tissue fibrosis and cancer. Understanding the mechanisms of ECM remodeling and its regulation, therefore, is essential for developing new therapeutic interventions for diseases and novel strategies for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. PMID:21917992

  7. Bone remodelling: its local regulation and the emergence of bone fragility.

    PubMed

    Martin, T John; Seeman, Ego

    2008-10-01

    Bone modelling prevents the occurrence of damage by adapting bone structure - and hence bone strength - to its loading circumstances. Bone remodelling removes damage, when it inevitably occurs, in order to maintain bone strength. This cellular machinery is successful during growth, but fails during advancing age because of the development of a negative balance between the volumes of bone resorbed and formed during remodelling by the basic multicellular unit (BMU), high rates of remodelling during midlife in women and late in life in both sexes, and a decline in periosteal bone formation. together resulting in bone loss and structural decay each time a remodelling event occurs. The two steps in remodelling - resorption of a volume of bone by osteoclasts and formation of a comparable volume by osteoblasts - are sequential, but the regulatory events leading to these two fully differentiated functions are not. Reparative remodelling is initiated by damage producing osteocyte apoptosis, which signals the location of damage via the osteocyte canalicular system to endosteal lining cells which forms the canopy of a bone-remodelling compartment (BRC). Within the BRC, local recruitment of osteoblast precursors from the lining cells, the marrow and circulation, direct contact with osteoclast precursors, osteoclastogenesis and molecular cross-talk between precursors, mature cells, cells of the immune system, and products of the resorbed matrix, titrate the birth, work and lifespan of the cells of this multicellular remodelling machinery to either remove or form a net volume of bone appropriate to the mechanical requirements.

  8. Frontiers in growth and remodeling

    PubMed Central

    Menzel, Andreas; Kuhl, Ellen

    2012-01-01

    Unlike common engineering materials, living matter can autonomously respond to environmental changes. Living structures can grow stronger, weaker, larger, or smaller within months, weeks, or days as a result of a continuous microstructural turnover and renewal. Hard tissues can adapt by increasing their density and grow strong. Soft tissues can adapt by increasing their volume and grow large. For more than three decades, the mechanics community has actively contributed to understand the phenomena of growth and remodeling from a mechanistic point of view. However, to date, there is no single, unified characterization of growth, which is equally accepted by all scientists in the field. Here we shed light on the continuum modeling of growth and remodeling of living matter, and give a comprehensive overview of historical developments and trends. We provide a state-of-the-art review of current research highlights, and discuss challenges and potential future directions. Using the example of volumetric growth, we illustrate how we can establish and utilize growth theories to characterize the functional adaptation of soft living matter. We anticipate this review to be the starting point for critical discussions and future research in growth and remodeling, with a potential impact on life science and medicine. PMID:22919118

  9. Cardiac fibrosis detected by magnetic resonance imaging on predicting time course diversity of left ventricular reverse remodeling in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy.

    PubMed

    Ikeda, Yuki; Inomata, Takayuki; Fujita, Teppei; Iida, Yuichiro; Nabeta, Takeru; Ishii, Shunsuke; Maekawa, Emi; Yanagisawa, Tomoyoshi; Mizutani, Tomohiro; Naruke, Takashi; Koitabashi, Toshimi; Takeuchi, Ichiro; Ako, Junya

    2016-11-01

    This study aimed to identify the association between the time course of left ventricular reverse remodeling (LVRR) and late gadolinium enhancement in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (LGE-cMRI) in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM). We identified 214 IDCM patients treated by optimal pharmacotherapies. LVRR was defined as ≥10 % increment in LV ejection fraction along with ≥10 % reduction in LV end-diastolic dimension. Findings of LGE-cMRI focusing on presence and extent of LGE were evaluated at baseline. Echocardiographic evaluation for detecting LVRR was performed in all patients for 3 years. The primary endpoint was defined as composite events (CEs) including readmission for heart failure, detection of major ventricular arrhythmia, and all-cause mortality. LVRR was found at <1 year in 59 patients (28 %, early responder), ≥1 year in 56 patients (26 %, late responder), and was absent in 99 patients (46 %, non-responder). Multivariate Cox-proportional hazards analysis revealed that both early responders (P = 0.02) and late responders (P < 0.001) had lower incidence of CEs than non-responders. Among 66 subjects (23 %) with complete cMRI evaluation, LGE was detected more often in late and non- than early responders (65, 83 vs. 23 % P < 0.001, respectively), whereas the LGE area was smaller in both early and late than non-responders (2 ± 3, 4 ± 3 vs. 12 ± 10 %, P < 0.001, respectively). In conclusion, evaluating the presence and the extent of LGE is useful for predicting the clinical differences of LVRR time course and subsequent long-term outcomes.

  10. Extracorporeal low-energy shock-wave therapy exerts anti-inflammatory effects in a rat model of acute myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Abe, Yuzuru; Ito, Kenta; Hao, Kiyotaka; Shindo, Tomohiko; Ogata, Tsuyoshi; Kagaya, Yuta; Kurosawa, Ryo; Nishimiya, Kensuke; Satoh, Kimio; Miyata, Satoshi; Kawakami, Kazuyoshi; Shimokawa, Hiroaki

    2014-01-01

    It has been previously demonstrated that extracorporeal low-energy shock-wave (SW) therapy ameliorates left ventricular (LV) remodeling through enhanced angiogenesis after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in pigs in vivo. However, it remains to be examined whether SW therapy also exerts anti-inflammatory effects on AMI. METHODS AND RESULTS: AMI was created by ligating the proximal left anterior descending coronary artery in rats. They were randomly assigned to 2 groups: with (SW group) or without (control group) SW therapy (0.1 mJ/mm(2), 200 shots, 1 Hz to the whole heart at 1, 3 and 5 days after AMI). Four weeks after AMI, SW therapy significantly ameliorated LV remodeling and fibrosis. Histological examinations showed that SW therapy significantly suppressed the infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages at days 3 and 6, in addition to enhanced capillary density in the border area. Molecular examinations demonstrated that SW therapy enhanced the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and suppressed the infiltration of transforming growth factor-β1-positive cells early after AMI. SW therapy also upregulated anti-inflammatory cytokines and downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines in general. These results suggest that low-energy SW therapy suppressed post-MI LV remodeling in rats in vivo, which was associated with anti-inflammatory effects in addition to its angiogenic effects, and demonstrated a novel aspect of the therapy for AMI.

  11. [Bone remodeling and modeling/mini-modeling.

    PubMed

    Hasegawa, Tomoka; Amizuka, Norio

    Modeling, adapting structures to loading by changing bone size and shapes, often takes place in bone of the fetal and developmental stages, while bone remodeling-replacement of old bone into new bone-is predominant in the adult stage. Modeling can be divided into macro-modeling(macroscopic modeling)and mini-modeling(microscopic modeling). In the cellular process of mini-modeling, unlike bone remodeling, bone lining cells, i.e., resting flattened osteoblasts covering bone surfaces will become active form of osteoblasts, and then, deposit new bone onto the old bone without mediating osteoclastic bone resorption. Among the drugs for osteoporotic treatment, eldecalcitol(a vitamin D3 analog)and teriparatide(human PTH[1-34])could show mini-modeling based bone formation. Histologically, mature, active form of osteoblasts are localized on the new bone induced by mini-modeling, however, only a few cell layer of preosteoblasts are formed over the newly-formed bone, and accordingly, few osteoclasts are present in the region of mini-modeling. In this review, histological characteristics of bone remodeling and modeling including mini-modeling will be introduced.

  12. Surface glycosaminoglycans mediate adherence between HeLa cells and Lactobacillus salivarius Lv72.

    PubMed

    Martín, Rebeca; Martín, Carla; Escobedo, Susana; Suárez, Juan E; Quirós, Luis M

    2013-09-17

    The adhesion of lactobacilli to the vaginal surface is of paramount importance to develop their probiotic functions. For this reason, the role of HeLa cell surface proteoglycans in the attachment of Lactobacillus salivarius Lv72, a mutualistic strain of vaginal origin, was investigated. Incubation of cultures with a variety of glycosaminoglycans (chondroitin sulfate A and C, heparin and heparan sulfate) resulted in marked binding interference. However, no single glycosaminoglycan was able to completely abolish cell binding, the sum of all having an additive effect that suggests cooperation between them and recognition of specific adhesins on the bacterial surface. In contrast, chondroitin sulfate B enhanced cell to cell attachment, showing the relevance of the stereochemistry of the uronic acid and the sulfation pattern on binding. Elimination of the HeLa surface glycosaminoglycans with lyases also resulted in severe adherence impairment. Advantage was taken of the Lactobacillus-glycosaminoglycans interaction to identify an adhesin from the bacterial surface. This protein, identify as a soluble binding protein of an ABC transporter system (OppA) by MALDI-TOF/(MS), was overproduced in Escherichia coli, purified and shown to interfere with L. salivarius Lv72 adhesion to HeLa cells. These data suggest that glycosaminoglycans play a fundamental role in attachment of mutualistic bacteria to the epithelium that lines the cavities where the normal microbiota thrives, OppA being a bacterial adhesin involved in the process.

  13. Adaptive scapula bone remodeling computational simulation: Relevance to regenerative medicine

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sharma, Gulshan B., E-mail: gbsharma@ucalgary.ca; University of Pittsburgh, Swanson School of Engineering, Department of Bioengineering, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213; University of Calgary, Schulich School of Engineering, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4

    Shoulder arthroplasty success has been attributed to many factors including, bone quality, soft tissue balancing, surgeon experience, and implant design. Improved long-term success is primarily limited by glenoid implant loosening. Prosthesis design examines materials and shape and determines whether the design should withstand a lifetime of use. Finite element (FE) analyses have been extensively used to study stresses and strains produced in implants and bone. However, these static analyses only measure a moment in time and not the adaptive response to the altered environment produced by the therapeutic intervention. Computational analyses that integrate remodeling rules predict how bone will respondmore » over time. Recent work has shown that subject-specific two- and three dimensional adaptive bone remodeling models are feasible and valid. Feasibility and validation were achieved computationally, simulating bone remodeling using an intact human scapula, initially resetting the scapular bone material properties to be uniform, numerically simulating sequential loading, and comparing the bone remodeling simulation results to the actual scapula’s material properties. Three-dimensional scapula FE bone model was created using volumetric computed tomography images. Muscle and joint load and boundary conditions were applied based on values reported in the literature. Internal bone remodeling was based on element strain-energy density. Initially, all bone elements were assigned a homogeneous density. All loads were applied for 10 iterations. After every iteration, each bone element’s remodeling stimulus was compared to its corresponding reference stimulus and its material properties modified. The simulation achieved convergence. At the end of the simulation the predicted and actual specimen bone apparent density were plotted and compared. Location of high and low predicted bone density was comparable to the actual specimen. High predicted bone density was greater

  14. Adaptive scapula bone remodeling computational simulation: Relevance to regenerative medicine

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sharma, Gulshan B.; Robertson, Douglas D.

    2013-07-01

    Shoulder arthroplasty success has been attributed to many factors including, bone quality, soft tissue balancing, surgeon experience, and implant design. Improved long-term success is primarily limited by glenoid implant loosening. Prosthesis design examines materials and shape and determines whether the design should withstand a lifetime of use. Finite element (FE) analyses have been extensively used to study stresses and strains produced in implants and bone. However, these static analyses only measure a moment in time and not the adaptive response to the altered environment produced by the therapeutic intervention. Computational analyses that integrate remodeling rules predict how bone will respond over time. Recent work has shown that subject-specific two- and three dimensional adaptive bone remodeling models are feasible and valid. Feasibility and validation were achieved computationally, simulating bone remodeling using an intact human scapula, initially resetting the scapular bone material properties to be uniform, numerically simulating sequential loading, and comparing the bone remodeling simulation results to the actual scapula's material properties. Three-dimensional scapula FE bone model was created using volumetric computed tomography images. Muscle and joint load and boundary conditions were applied based on values reported in the literature. Internal bone remodeling was based on element strain-energy density. Initially, all bone elements were assigned a homogeneous density. All loads were applied for 10 iterations. After every iteration, each bone element's remodeling stimulus was compared to its corresponding reference stimulus and its material properties modified. The simulation achieved convergence. At the end of the simulation the predicted and actual specimen bone apparent density were plotted and compared. Location of high and low predicted bone density was comparable to the actual specimen. High predicted bone density was greater than actual

  15. Treating a 20 mm Hg gradient alleviates myocardial hypertrophy in experimental aortic coarctation.

    PubMed

    Wendell, David C; Friehs, Ingeborg; Samyn, Margaret M; Harmann, Leanne M; LaDisa, John F

    2017-10-01

    Children with coarctation of the aorta (CoA) can have a hyperdynamic and remodeled left ventricle (LV) from increased afterload. Literature from an experimental model suggests the putative 20 mm Hg blood pressure gradient (BPG) treatment guideline frequently implemented in CoA studies may permit irreversible vascular changes. LV remodeling from pressure overload has been studied, but data are limited following correction and using a clinically representative BPG. Rabbits underwent CoA at 10 weeks to induce a 20 mm Hg BPG using permanent or dissolvable suture thereby replicating untreated and corrected CoA, respectively. Cardiac function was evaluated at 32 weeks by magnetic resonance imaging using a spoiled cine GRE sequence (TR/TE/FA 8/2.9/20), 14 × 14-cm FOV, and 3-mm slice thickness. Images (20 frames/cycle) were acquired in 6-8 short axis views from the apex to the mitral valve annulus. LV volume, ejection fraction (EF), and mass were quantified. LV mass was elevated for CoA (5.2 ± 0.55 g) versus control (3.6 ± 0.16 g) and corrected (4.0 ± 0.44 g) rabbits, resulting in increased LV mass/volume ratio for CoA rabbits. A trend toward increased EF and stroke volume was observed but did not reach significance. Elevated EF by volumetric analysis in CoA rabbits was supported by concomitant increases in total aortic flow by phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging. The indices quantified trended toward a persistent hyperdynamic LV despite correction, but differences were not statistically significant versus control rabbits. These findings suggest the current putative 20 mm Hg BPG for treatment may be reasonable from the LV's perspective. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Relationship between extent and complexity of coronary artery disease and different left ventricular geometric patterns in patients with coronary artery disease and hypertension

    PubMed Central

    Uçar, Hakan; Gür, Mustafa; Börekçi, Abdürrezzak; Yıldırım, Arafat; Baykan, Ahmet Oytun; Kalkan, Gülhan Yüksel; Koç, Mevlüt; Şeker, Taner; Coşkun, Mehmet; Şen, Ömer; Çaylı, Murat

    2015-01-01

    Objective: The relationship between severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) and left ventricler (LV) hypertrophy in hypertensive patients is well known. However, the association between the extent and complexity of CAD assessed with SYNTAX score (SS) and different LV geometric patterns has not been investigated. We aimed to investigate the association between SYNTAX score and different LV geometric patterns in hypertensive patients. Methods: The study had been made in our clinic between January 2013 and August 2013. We studied 251 CAD patients who had hypertension and who underwent coronary angiography (147 males, 104 females; mean age 61.61±9.9 years). Coronary angiography was performed based on clinical indications. SS was determined in all patients. Echocardiographic examination was performed in all subjects. Four different geometric patterns were determined in patients according to LV mass index (LVMI) and relative wall thickness (RWT) (Groups: NG-normal geometry, CR-concentric remodeling, EH-eccentric hypertrophy, and CH-concentric hypertrophy). Biochemical markers were measured in all participants. Results: The highest SS values were observed in the CH group compared with the NG, CR, and EH groups (p<0.05 for all). Also, the SS values of the EH group were higher than in the NG and CR groups (p<0.05 for all). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that SS was independently associated with LV geometry (β=0.316, p=0.001), as well as age (β=0.163, p=0.007) and diabetes (β=-0.134, p=0.022). Conclusion: SYNTAX score is independently related with LV geometry in hypertensive patients. This result shows that LV remodeling is parallel to the increase in the extent and complexity of CAD in our study patients. PMID:25592099

  17. Impact of aerobic interval training and continuous training on left ventricular geometry and function: a SAINTEX-CAD substudy.

    PubMed

    Van De Heyning, Caroline M; De Maeyer, Catherine; Pattyn, Nele; Beckers, Paul J; Cornelissen, Véronique A; Goetschalckx, Kaatje; Possemiers, Nadine; Van Craenenbroeck, Emeline M; Voigt, Jens-Uwe; Vanhees, Luc; Shivalkar, Bharati

    2018-04-15

    Increase of exercise capacity (peak VO 2 ) after cardiac rehabilitation improves outcome in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Systolic and diastolic function have been associated with peak VO 2 , but their role towards improvement of exercise capacity remains unclear. It is unknown which exercise intensity has the most beneficial impact on left ventricular (LV) geometry and function in CAD patients without heart failure. 200 stable CAD patients without heart failure were randomized to 3months of aerobic interval training (AIT) or aerobic continuous training (ACT). Cardiopulmonary exercise test and transthoracic echocardiography were scheduled before and after 3months of training. At baseline, a higher peak VO 2 correlated with lower LV posterior wall thickness (p=0.002), higher LV ejection fraction (p=0.008), better LV global longitudinal strain (p=0.043) and lower E/e' (0=0.001). After multivariate stepwise regression analysis only E/é remained an independent predictor of peak VO 2 (p=0.042). Improvement of peak VO 2 after 3months of training correlated with reverse remodeling of the interventricular septum (p=0.005), enlargement of LV diastolic volume (p=0.007) and increase of LV stroke volume (p=0.018) but not with other indices of systolic or diastolic function. Significant reduction of the interventricular septum thickness after cardiac rehabilitation was observed (p=0.012), with a trend towards more reverse remodeling after ACT compared to AIT (p=0.054). In contrast, there were no changes in other parameters of LV geometry, diastolic or systolic function. Systolic and diastolic function are determinants of baseline exercise capacity in CAD patients without heart failure, but do not seem to mediate improvement of peak VO 2 after either AIT or ACT. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Impact of Preeclampsia on Clinical and Functional Outcomes in Women With Peripartum Cardiomyopathy.

    PubMed

    Lindley, Kathryn J; Conner, Shayna N; Cahill, Alison G; Novak, Eric; Mann, Douglas L

    2017-06-01

    Preeclampsia is a risk factor for the development of peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), but it is unknown whether preeclampsia impacts clinical or left ventricular (LV) functional outcomes. This study sought to assess clinical and functional outcomes in women with PPCM complicated by preeclampsia. This retrospective cohort study included women diagnosed with PPCM delivering at Barnes-Jewish Hospital between 2004 to 2014. The primary outcome was one-year event-free survival rate for the combined end point of death and hospital readmission. The secondary outcome was recovery of LV ejection fraction. Seventeen of 39 women (44%) with PPCM had preeclampsia. The groups had similar mean LV ejection fraction at diagnosis (29.6 with versus 27.3 without preeclampsia; P =0.5). Women with preeclampsia had smaller mean LV end-diastolic diameters (5.2 versus 6.0 cm; P =0.001), greater relative wall thickness (0.41 versus 0.35 mm Hg; P =0.009), and lower incidence of eccentric remodeling (12% versus 48%; P =0.03). Clinical follow-up was available for 32 women; 5 died of cardiovascular complications within 1 year of diagnosis (4/15 with versus 1/17 without preeclampsia; P =0.16). In time to event analysis, patients with preeclampsia had worse event-free survival during 1-year follow-up ( P =0.047). Echocardiographic follow-up was available in 10 survivors with and 16 without preeclampsia. LV ejection fraction recovered in 80% of survivors with versus 25% without preeclampsia ( P =0.014). PPCM with concomitant preeclampsia is associated with increased morbidity and mortality and different patterns of LV remodeling and recovery of LV function when compared with patients with PPCM that is not complicated by preeclampsia. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

  19. Low-Level Laser Application in the Early Myocardial Infarction Stage Has No Beneficial Role in Heart Failure.

    PubMed

    Manchini, Martha T; Antônio, Ednei L; Silva Junior, José Antônio; de Carvalho, Paulo de Tarso C; Albertini, Regiane; Pereira, Fernando C; Feliciano, Regiane; Montemor, Jairo; Vieira, Stella S; Grandinetti, Vanessa; Yoshizaki, Amanda; Chaves, Marcio; da Silva, Móises P; de Lima, Rafael do Nascimento; Bocalini, Danilo S; de Melo, Bruno L; Tucci, Paulo J F; Serra, Andrey J

    2017-01-01

    Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been targeted as a promising approach that can mitigate post-infarction cardiac remodeling. There is some interesting evidence showing that the beneficial role of the LLLT could persist long-term even after the end of the application, but it remains to be systematically evaluated. Therefore, the present study aimed to test the hypothesis that LLLT beneficial effects in the early post-infarction cardiac remodeling could remain in overt heart failure even with the disruption of irradiations. Female Wistar rats were subjected to the coronary occlusion to induce myocardial infarction or Sham operation. A single LLLT application was carried out after 60 s and 3 days post-coronary occlusion, respectively. Echocardiography was performed 3 days and at the end of the experiment (5 weeks) to evaluate cardiac function. After the last echocardiographic examination, LV hemodynamic evaluation was performed at baseline and on sudden afterload increases. Compared with the Sham group, infarcted rats showed increased systolic and diastolic internal diameter as well as a depressed shortening fraction of LV. The only benefit of the LLLT was a higher shortening fraction after 3 days of infarction. However, treated-LLLT rats show a lower shortening fraction in the 5th week of study when compared with Sham and non-irradiated rats. A worsening of cardiac function was confirmed in the hemodynamic analysis as evidenced by the higher LV end-diastolic pressure and lower +dP/dt and -dP/dt with five weeks of study. Cardiac functional reserve was also impaired by infarction as evidenced by an attenuated response of stroke work index and cardiac output to a sudden afterload stress, without LLLT repercussions. No significant differences were found in the myocardial expression of Akt 1 /VEGF pathway. Collectively, these findings illustrate that LLLT improves LV systolic function in the early post-infarction cardiac remodeling. However, this beneficial effect may

  20. DEVELOPMENT AND USE OF IMMUNOCHEMICAL METHODS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINANTS AT THE U.S. EPA, NERL, HERB-LV

    EPA Science Inventory

    The HERB-LV has developed several immunoassay methods for environmental and human exposure studies. Immunoassays to detect low levels (<10 ng/mL) chlorpyrifos in track-in dirt and house dust have been developed for indoor exposure surveys. An immunoassay for the urinary metabol...

  1. αConotoxin ArIB[V11L,V16D] is a potent and selective antagonist at rat and human native α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors

    PubMed Central

    Innocent, Neal; Livingstone, Phil D.; Hone, Arik; Kimura, Atsuko; Young, Tracey; Whiteaker, Paul; McIntosh, J. Michael; Wonnacott, Susan

    2008-01-01

    A recently developed α-conotoxin, α-CtxArIB[V11L,V16D] is a potent and selective competitive antagonist at rat recombinant α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), making it an attractive probe for this receptor subtype. α7 nAChRs are potential therapeutic targets that are widely expressed in both neuronal and non-neuronal tissues where they are implicated in a variety of functions. Here we evaluate this toxin at rat and human native nAChRs. Functional α7 nAChR responses were evoked by choline plus the allosteric potentiator PNU-120596 in rat PC12 cells and human SHSY5Y cells loaded with calcium indicators. α-CtxArIB[V11L,V16D] specifically inhibited α7 nAChR-mediated increases in Ca2+ in PC12 cells. Responses to other stimuli (5-iodo-A-85380, nicotine or KCl) that did not activate α7 nAChRs were unaffected. Human α7 nAChRs were also sensitive to α-CtxArIB[V11L,V16D]: ACh-evoked currents in X. laevis oocytes expressing human α7 nAChRs were inhibited by α-CtxArIB[V11L,V16D] (IC50 3.4 nM) in a slowly reversible manner, with full recovery taking 15 min. This is consistent with the timecourse of recovery from blockade of rat α7 nAChRs in PC12 cells. α-CtxArIB[V11L,V16D] inhibited human native α7 nAChRs in SHSY5Y cells, activated by either choline or AR-R17779 plus PNU-120596. Rat brain α7 nAChRs contribute to dopamine release from striatal minces: α-CtxArIB[V11L,V16D] (300 nM) selectively inhibited choline-evoked dopamine release without affecting responses evoked by nicotine that activates heteromeric nAChRs. This study establishes that α-CtxArIB[V11L,V16D] selectively inhibits human and rat native α7 nAChRs with comparable potency, making this a potentially useful antagonist for investigating α7 nAChR functions. PMID:18664588

  2. Neural circuit rewiring: insights from DD synapse remodeling.

    PubMed

    Kurup, Naina; Jin, Yishi

    2016-01-01

    Nervous systems exhibit many forms of neuronal plasticity during growth, learning and memory consolidation, as well as in response to injury. Such plasticity can occur across entire nervous systems as with the case of insect metamorphosis, in individual classes of neurons, or even at the level of a single neuron. A striking example of neuronal plasticity in C. elegans is the synaptic rewiring of the GABAergic Dorsal D-type motor neurons during larval development, termed DD remodeling. DD remodeling entails multi-step coordination to concurrently eliminate pre-existing synapses and form new synapses on different neurites, without changing the overall morphology of the neuron. This mini-review focuses on recent advances in understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms driving DD remodeling.

  3. Intraobserver reproducibility of parameters of standard and 2D speckle tracking echocardiography, dynamics of global longitudinal strain I in patients with acute primary anterior STEMI

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kercheva, M.; Ryabova, T.; Ryabov, V.; Karpov, R.

    2015-11-01

    The aim of this study was to assess the intraobserver reproducibility of parameters of standard and 2 dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography, dynamics of global longitudinal strain in patients with acute primary anterior STEMI. The study included 24 patients, mean age 58.46±10.2. Echocardiography with 2D speckle tracking imaging was performed on the 1st (T1), 7th (T2), 14th days (T3) after STEMI («Vivid E9»). Analysis of echocardiographic images was performed offline at the different periods by the two independent observers (EchoPac) - experienced and inexperienced. In order to assess the agreement between standard and 2D speckle tracking echocardiography, a correlation analysis (Pearson correlation, Spearman's rank correlation coefficient) and Bland-Altman analysis were undertaken. The 23 patients had urgent reperfusion therapy, 6 patients underwent primary PCI, 16 patients - PCI after successful fibrinolysis (68%). GLS and WMSI had the best intraobsever reproducibility. Dynamics of EDV LV, ESV LV, EF LV was without significant differences. Nevertheless, it was found positive dynamic of GLS: - 12.65±3.53 (T1), -13.61±3.81 (T2), -14.27±4.1 (T3), p<0.05. GLS reduced 11.35% (p=0.0048) from T1 to T3. The best intraobserver reproducibility of parameters of 2 D speckle-tracking and standard echocardiography was revealed in GLS and WMSI. The modern management of STEMI patients limits adverse postinfarction remodeling and preserves of global left ventricular contractility detected by the EF LV. However, GLS had the positive dynamics and improved to the 14th day.

  4. Clinical Implications and Pathogenesis of Esophageal Remodeling in Eosinophilic Esophagitis

    PubMed Central

    Hirano, Ikuo; Aceves, Seema S.

    2014-01-01

    In eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), remodeling changes are manifest histologically in both the epithelium as well as in the subepithelium where lamina propria (LP) fibrosis, expansion of the muscularis propria and increased vascularity occur. The major clinical symptoms and complications of EoE are largely consequences of esophageal remodeling. Important mediators of the process include IL-5, IL-13, TGFβ1, mast cells, fibroblasts and eosinophils. Methods to detect remodeling effects include upper endoscopy, histopathology, barium esophagram, endoscopic ultrasonography, esophageal manometry, and functional luminal imaging. These modalities provide evidence of organ dysfunction that include focal and diffuse esophageal strictures, expansion of the mucosa and subepithelium, esophageal motor abnormalities and reduced esophageal distensibility. Complications of food impaction and perforations of the esophageal wall have been associated with reduction in esophageal caliber and increased esophageal mural stiffness. The therapeutic benefits of topical corticosteroids and elimination diet therapy in resolving mucosal eosinophilic inflammation of the esophagus are evident. Available therapies, however, have demonstrated variable ability to reverse existing remodeling changes of the esophagus. Systemic therapies that include novel, targeted biologic agents have the potential of addressing subepithelial remodeling. Esophageal dilation remains a useful, adjunctive therapeutic maneuver in symptomatic adults with esophageal stricture. As novel treatments emerge, it is essential that therapeutic endpoints account for the fundamental contributions of esophageal remodeling to overall disease activity. PMID:24813517

  5. Energy Efficiency Measures to Incorporate into Remodeling Projects

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Liaukus, C.

    2014-12-01

    Energy improvements in a home are often approached as one concerted effort, beginning with a simple walk-through assessment or more in-depth energy audit and followed by the installation of recommended energy measures. While this approach allows for systems thinking to guide the efforts, comprehensive energy improvements of this nature are undertaken by a relatively small number of U.S. households compared to piecemeal remodeling efforts. In this report, the U.S Department of Energy Building America Retrofit Alliance research team examines the improvement of a home’s energy performance in an opportunistic way by examining what can be done to incorporate energy efficiencymore » measures into general remodeling work and home repair projects. This allows for energy efficiency upgrades to occur at the same time as remodeling proejcts. There are challenges to this approach, not the least of which being that the work will take place over time in potentially many separate projects. The opportunity to improve a home’s energy efficiency at one time expands or contracts with the scope of the remodel. As such, guidance on how to do each piece thoughtfully and with consideration for potential future projects, is critical.« less

  6. Endothelial Msx1 transduces hemodynamic changes into an arteriogenic remodeling response

    PubMed Central

    Vandersmissen, Ine; Craps, Sander; Depypere, Maarten; Coppiello, Giulia; van Gastel, Nick; Maes, Frederik; Carmeliet, Geert; Schrooten, Jan; Jones, Elizabeth A.V.; Umans, Lieve; Devlieger, Roland; Koole, Michel; Gheysens, Olivier; Zwijsen, An; Aranguren, Xabier L.

    2015-01-01

    Collateral remodeling is critical for blood flow restoration in peripheral arterial disease and is triggered by increasing fluid shear stress in preexisting collateral arteries. So far, no arterial-specific mediators of this mechanotransduction response have been identified. We show that muscle segment homeobox 1 (MSX1) acts exclusively in collateral arterial endothelium to transduce the extrinsic shear stimulus into an arteriogenic remodeling response. MSX1 was specifically up-regulated in remodeling collateral arteries. MSX1 induction in collateral endothelial cells (ECs) was shear stress driven and downstream of canonical bone morphogenetic protein–SMAD signaling. Flow recovery and collateral remodeling were significantly blunted in EC-specific Msx1/2 knockout mice. Mechanistically, MSX1 linked the arterial shear stimulus to arteriogenic remodeling by activating the endothelial but not medial layer to a proinflammatory state because EC but not smooth muscle cellMsx1/2 knockout mice had reduced leukocyte recruitment to remodeling collateral arteries. This reduced leukocyte infiltration in EC Msx1/2 knockout mice originated from decreased levels of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1)/vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1), whose expression was also in vitro driven by promoter binding of MSX1. PMID:26391659

  7. The Chd1 Chromatin Remodeler Shifts Nucleosomal DNA Bidirectionally as a Monomer

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Qiu, Yupeng; Levendosky, Robert F.; Chakravarthy, Srinivas

    Chromatin remodelers catalyze dynamic packaging of the genome by carrying out nucleosome assembly/disassembly, histone exchange, and nucleosome repositioning. Remodeling results in evenly spaced nucleosomes, which requires probing both sides of the nucleosome, yet the way remodelers organize sliding activity to achieve this task is not understood. Here, we show that the monomeric Chd1 remodeler shifts DNA back and forth by dynamically alternating between different segments of the nucleosome. During sliding, Chd1 generates unstable remodeling intermediates that spontaneously relax to a pre-remodeled position. We demonstrate that nucleosome sliding is tightly controlled by two regulatory domains: the DNA-binding domain, which interferes withmore » sliding when its range is limited by a truncated linking segment, and the chromodomains, which play a key role in substrate discrimination. We propose that active interplay of the ATPase motor with the regulatory domains may promote dynamic nucleosome structures uniquely suited for histone exchange and chromatin reorganization during transcription.« less

  8. Comparative study of diastolic filling under varying left ventricular wall stiffness

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mekala, Pritam; Santhanakrishnan, Arvind

    2014-11-01

    Pathological remodeling of the human cardiac left ventricle (LV) is observed in hypertensive heart failure as a result of pressure overload. Myocardial stiffening occurs in these patients prior to chronic maladaptive changes, resulting in increased LV wall stiffness. The goal of this study was to investigate the change in intraventricular filling fluid dynamics inside a physical model of the LV as a function of wall stiffness. Three LV models of varying wall stiffness were incorporated into an in vitro flow circuit driven by a programmable piston pump. Windkessel elements were used to tune the inflow and systemic pressure in the model with least stiffness to match healthy conditions. Models with stiffer walls were comparatively tested maintaining circuit compliance, resistance and pump amplitude constant. 2D phase-locked PIV measurements along the central plane showed that with increase in wall stiffness, the peak velocity and cardiac output inside the LV decreased. Further, inflow vortex ring propagation toward the LV apex was reduced with increasing stiffness. The above findings indicate the importance of considering LV wall relaxation characteristics in pathological studies of filling fluid dynamics.

  9. Soft skills turned into hard facts: nucleosome remodelling at developmental switches.

    PubMed

    Chioda, M; Becker, P B

    2010-07-01

    Nucleosome remodelling factors are regulators of DNA accessibility in chromatin and lubricators of all major functions of eukaryotic genomes. Their action is transient and reversible, yet can be decisive for irreversible cell-fate decisions during development. In addition to the well-known local actions of nucleosome remodelling factors during transcription initiation, more global and fundamental roles for remodelling complexes in shaping the epigenome during development are emerging.

  10. Constitutive glycogen synthase kinase-3α/β activity protects against chronic β-adrenergic remodelling of the heart

    PubMed Central

    Webb, Ian G.; Nishino, Yasuhiro; Clark, James E.; Murdoch, Colin; Walker, Simon J.; Makowski, Marcus R.; Botnar, Rene M.; Redwood, Simon R.; Shah, Ajay M.; Marber, Michael S.

    2010-01-01

    Aims Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3) signalling is implicated in the growth of the heart during development and in response to stress. However, its precise role remains unclear. We set out to characterize developmental growth and response to chronic isoproterenol (ISO) stress in knockin (KI) mice lacking the critical N-terminal serines, 21 of GSK-3α and 9 of GSK-3β respectively, required for inactivation by upstream kinases. Methods and results Between 5 and 15 weeks, KI mice grew more rapidly, but normalized heart weight and contractile performance were similar to wild-type (WT) mice. Isolated hearts of both genotypes responded comparably to acute ISO infusion with increases in heart rate and contractility. In WT mice, chronic subcutaneous ISO infusion over 14 days resulted in cardiac hypertrophy, interstitial fibrosis, and impaired contractility, accompanied by foetal gene reactivation. These effects were all significantly attenuated in KI mice. Indeed, ISO-treated KI hearts demonstrated reversible physiological remodelling traits with increased stroke volume and a preserved contractile response to acute adrenergic stimulation. Furthermore, simultaneous pharmacological inhibition of GSK-3 in KI mice treated with chronic subcutaneous ISO recapitulated the adverse remodelling phenotype seen in WT hearts. Conclusion Expression of inactivation-resistant GSK-3α/β does not affect eutrophic myocardial growth but protects against pathological hypertrophy induced by chronic adrenergic stimulation, maintaining cardiac function and attenuating interstitial fibrosis. Accordingly, strategies to prevent phosphorylation of Ser-21/9, and consequent inactivation of GSK-3α/β, may enable a sustained cardiac response to chronic β-agonist stimulation while preventing pathological remodelling. PMID:20299330

  11. ECM remodeling and its plasticity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Feng, Jingchen; Jones, Christopher A. R.; Cibula, Matthew; Mao, Xiaoming; Sander, Leonard M.; Levine, Herbert; Sun, Bo

    The mechanical interactions between cells and Extracellular Matrix (ECM) are of great importance in many cellular processes. These interactions are reciprocal, i.e. contracting cells pull and reorganize the surrounding matrix, while the remodeled matrix feeds back to regulate cell activities. Recent experiments show in collagen gels with densely distributed cells, aligned fiber bundles are formed in the direction between neighboring cells. Fibers flow into the center region between contracting cell pairs in this process, which causes the concentration of fibers in the fiber bundles to become significantly enhanced. Using an extended lattice-based model, we show that viscoelasticity plays an essential role in ECM remodeling and contributes to the enhanced concentration in fiber bundles. We further characterize ECM plasticity within our model and verify our results with rheometer experiments.

  12. Intrafamilial aggregation and heritability of tissue Doppler indexes of left ventricular diastolic function in a group of African descent.

    PubMed

    Peterson, Vernice R; Norton, Gavin R; Libhaber, Carlos D; Maseko, Muzi J; Sareli, Pinhas; Woodiwiss, Angela J

    2016-06-01

    Although several indexes of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function show heritability, the genetic influence on the tissue Doppler index, E/e' (early transmitral velocity/velocity of myocardial tissue lengthening), an index of LV filling pressures in those of black African descent is currently unknown. Furthermore, whether any genetic influences on E/e' are through an impact of LV remodeling or aortic function is unknown. Intrafamilial aggregation and heritability (SAGE software) of E/e' (echocardiography) were assessed in 129 nuclear families (29 spouse pairs, 216 parent-child pairs, and 113 sibling-sibling pairs) from an urban developing community of black Africans, independent of LV mass index (LVMI), LV relative wall thickness (RWT), central aortic systolic pressure (SBPc), and backward wave pressures (Pb) (applanation tonometry, SphygmoCor software). Independent of confounders including LVMI and RWT, E/e' was correlated in parent-child (r = 0.23; P < .001) and sibling-sibling (r = 0.29; P < .005), but not in spouse (r = 0.13; P = .51) pairs. The relationships between parent-child (r = 0.22; P < .001) and sibling-sibling (r = 0.29; P < .005) pairs persisted with adjustments for SBPc. The relationships between parent-child (r = 0.22; P < .001) and sibling-sibling (r = 0.26; P < .01) pairs also persisted with adjustments for Pb. Independent of confounders including LVMI and RWT, E/e' showed significant heritability (h(2) ± standard error of the mean [SEM] = 0.51 ± 0.11; P < .0001) which similarly persisted with adjustments for SBPc (h(2) ± SEM = 0.50 ± 0.11; P < .0001) and Pb (h(2) ± SEM = 0.49 ± 0.11; P < .0001). In conclusion, in a group of African ancestry, independent of LV remodeling and aortic function, E/e' shows significant intrafamilial aggregation and robust heritability. Hence, genetic factors may play an important role in determining moderate-to-severe LV diastolic dysfunction independent of

  13. Remodelling the extracellular matrix in development and disease

    PubMed Central

    Bonnans, Caroline; Chou, Jonathan; Werb, Zena

    2015-01-01

    The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a highly dynamic structure that is present in all tissues and continuously undergoes controlled remodelling. This process involves quantitative and qualitative changes in the ECM, mediated by specific enzymes that are responsible for ECM degradation, such as metalloproteinases. The ECM interacts with cells to regulate diverse functions, including proliferation, migration and differentiation. ECM remodelling is crucial for regulating the morphogenesis of the intestine and lungs, as well as of the mammary and submandibular glands. Dysregulation of ECM composition, structure, stiffness and abundance contributes to several pathological conditions, such as fibrosis and invasive cancer. A better understanding of how the ECM regulates organ structure and function and of how ECM remodelling affects disease progression will contribute to the development of new therapeutics. PMID:25415508

  14. [Numeric simulation of functional remodeling of the anterior alveolar bone].

    PubMed

    Wang, Wei-feng; Xin, Hai-tao; Zang, Shun-lai; Ding, Jie

    2012-04-01

    To study the remodeling of the anterior alveolar bone with parodontium under physiology loading using finite element method (FEM) and theory of bone remodeling. A FEM model of the maxillary central incisor with parodontium was established, and the change of bone density during the remodeling of alveolar bone was investigated under physiology loading (60 - 150 N) based on the theory of bone remodeling about strain energy density (SED). The finite element analysis software Abaqus user material subroutine (UMAT) were used. With the increase of physiology loading, the pressure stress on the buccal cervical margin increased gradually while the density was decreased gradually. The cortical bone was lower than its initial density 1.74 g/cm(3), which was 1.74 - 1.63 g/cm(3). The density of cancellous bone was 0.90 - 0.77 g/cm(3), which was lower than its intial density 0.90 g/cm(3). The lingual cervical margin was under tensile stress which also increased with loading, the density had no significant change. When the achieve to 120 N, the density of cortical bone was 1.74 - 1.73 g/cm(3). No significant change was found in the cancellous bone. The simulation of the perodontium remodeling is achieved and proved to be effective by the relevant research based on the method of the study. And the result will be helpful to form the basis of analysis bone remodeling process and predict the results in the clinical work.

  15. National Remodelling Team: Evaluation Study (Year 2). Final Report

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Easton, Claire; Wilson, Rebekah; Sharp, Caroline

    2005-01-01

    This report sets out to provide the National Remodelling Team (NRT) with comprehensive details on stakeholders' views about the second year of the remodelling programme. This report is divided into nine chapters: (1) Introduction; (2) outlines the aims of the evaluation and the methodology used; (3) describes the findings from the survey of local…

  16. Curva de rotação óptica de ESO-LV 5100550

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Carvalho, D. B.; Soares, D. S. L.

    2003-08-01

    ESO-LV 5100550 é o membro mais fraco do par de galáxias austral SBG 357 (Soares et al. 1995). É classificada no catálogo RC3 como uma espiral ordinária de tipo inicial (early-type); porém, uma análise morfológica sugere que ela tenha uma grande barra. O objetivo do estudo é determinar sua cinemática de tal modo que possamos inferir mais a respeito de sua dinâmica, provavelmente perturbada, já que se espera que esteja sob forte influência da companheira ESO-LV 5100560. Apresentarei resultados parciais determinados a partir de espectros obtidos com o instrumento Double Spectrograph montado no telescópio Hale do Monte Palomar, EUA. As observações foram realizadas por D.S.L. Soares, P.M.V. Veiga e T.E. Nordgren, em 1998. Foram tomados espectros de fenda longa posicionada sobre a linha dos nodos do disco e ao longo da suposta barra. Os dados foram reduzidos com uso do pacote IRAF. Obtivemos o perfil de velocidades radiais na linha de visada ao longo das fendas e calculamos o desvio para o vermelho cosmológico do sistema, com base no espectro central. Determinamos as curvas de rotação deprojetadas, com base em cálculos para os valores teóricos esperados das componentes de velocidades puramente circulares em um disco inclinado. A inclinação do disco, dado fundamental nesta deprojeção, foi estimada através da média das elipticidades das isofotas mais externas.

  17. DNA Looping Facilitates Targeting of a Chromatin Remodeling Enzyme

    PubMed Central

    Yadon, Adam N; Singh, Badri Nath; Hampsey, Michael; Tsukiyama, Toshio

    2013-01-01

    Summary ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling enzymes are highly abundant and play pivotal roles regulating DNA-dependent processes. The mechanisms by which they are targeted to specific loci have not been well understood on a genome-wide scale. Here we present evidence that a major targeting mechanism for the Isw2 chromatin remodeling enzyme to specific genomic loci is through sequence-specific transcription factor (TF)-dependent recruitment. Unexpectedly, Isw2 is recruited in a TF-dependent fashion to a large number of loci without TF binding sites. Using the 3C assay, we show that Isw2 can be targeted by Ume6- and TFIIB-dependent DNA looping. These results identify DNA looping as a previously unknown mechanism for the recruitment of a chromatin remodeling enzyme and defines a novel function for DNA looping. We also present evidence suggesting that Ume6-dependent DNA looping is involved in chromatin remodeling and transcriptional repression, revealing a mechanism by which the three-dimensional folding of chromatin affects DNA-dependent processes. PMID:23478442

  18. Matrix Metalloproteinases in Bone Resorption, Remodeling, and Repair.

    PubMed

    Paiva, Katiucia B S; Granjeiro, José M

    2017-01-01

    Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are the major protease family responsible for the cleavage of the matrisome (global composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM) proteome) and proteins unrelated to the ECM, generating bioactive molecules. These proteins drive ECM remodeling, in association with tissue-specific and cell-anchored inhibitors (TIMPs and RECK, respectively). In the bone, the ECM mediates cell adhesion, mechanotransduction, nucleation of mineralization, and the immobilization of growth factors to protect them from damage or degradation. Since the first description of an MMP in bone tissue, many other MMPs have been identified, as well as their inhibitors. Numerous functions have been assigned to these proteins, including osteoblast/osteocyte differentiation, bone formation, solubilization of the osteoid during bone resorption, osteoclast recruitment and migration, and as a coupling factor in bone remodeling under physiological conditions. In turn, a number of pathologies, associated with imbalanced bone remodeling, arise mainly from MMP overexpression and abnormalities of the ECM, leading to bone osteolysis or bone formation. In this review, we will discuss the functions of MMPs and their inhibitors in bone cells, during bone remodeling, pathological bone resorption (osteoporosis and bone metastasis), bone repair/regeneration, and emergent roles in bone bioengineering. © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Automated classification of LV regional wall motion based on spatio-temporal profiles from cardiac cine magnetic resonance imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mantilla, Juan; Garreau, Mireille; Bellanger, Jean-Jacques; Paredes, José Luis

    2013-11-01

    Assessment of the cardiac Left Ventricle (LV) wall motion is generally based on visual inspection or quantitative analysis of 2D+t sequences acquired in short-axis cardiac cine-Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Most often, cardiac dynamic is globally analized from two particular phases of the cardiac cycle. In this paper, we propose an automated method to classify regional wall motion in LV function based on spatio-temporal pro les and Support Vector Machines (SVM). This approach allows to obtain a binary classi cation between normal and abnormal motion, without the need of pre-processing and by exploiting all the images of the cardiac cycle. In each short- axis MRI slice level (basal, median, and apical), the spatio-temporal pro les are extracted from the selection of a subset of diametrical lines crossing opposites LV segments. Initialized at end-diastole phase, the pro les are concatenated with their corresponding projections into the succesive temporal phases of the cardiac cycle. These pro les are associated to di erent types of information that derive from the image (gray levels), Fourier, Wavelet or Curvelet domains. The approach has been tested on a set of 14 abnormal and 6 healthy patients by using a leave-one-out cross validation and two kernel functions for SVM classi er. The best classi cation performance is yielded by using four-level db4 wavelet transform and SVM with a linear kernel. At each slice level the results provided a classi cation rate of 87.14% in apical level, 95.48% in median level and 93.65% in basal level.

  20. CaM Kinase II mediates maladaptive post-infarct remodeling and pro-inflammatory chemoattractant signaling but not acute myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury

    PubMed Central

    Weinreuter, Martin; Kreusser, Michael M; Beckendorf, Jan; Schreiter, Friederike C; Leuschner, Florian; Lehmann, Lorenz H; Hofmann, Kai P; Rostosky, Julia S; Diemert, Nathalie; Xu, Chang; Volz, Hans Christian; Jungmann, Andreas; Nickel, Alexander; Sticht, Carsten; Gretz, Norbert; Maack, Christoph; Schneider, Michael D; Gröne, Hermann-Josef; Müller, Oliver J; Katus, Hugo A; Backs, Johannes

    2014-01-01

    CaMKII was suggested to mediate ischemic myocardial injury and adverse cardiac remodeling. Here, we investigated the roles of different CaMKII isoforms and splice variants in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury by the use of new genetic CaMKII mouse models. Although CaMKIIδC was upregulated 1 day after I/R injury, cardiac damage 1 day after I/R was neither affected in CaMKIIδ-deficient mice, CaMKIIδ-deficient mice in which the splice variants CaMKIIδB and C were re-expressed, nor in cardiomyocyte-specific CaMKIIδ/γ double knockout mice (DKO). In contrast, 5 weeks after I/R, DKO mice were protected against extensive scar formation and cardiac dysfunction, which was associated with reduced leukocyte infiltration and attenuated expression of members of the chemokine (C-C motif) ligand family, in particular CCL3 (macrophage inflammatory protein-1α, MIP-1α). Intriguingly, CaMKII was sufficient and required to induce CCL3 expression in isolated cardiomyocytes, indicating a cardiomyocyte autonomous effect. We propose that CaMKII-dependent chemoattractant signaling explains the effects on post-I/R remodeling. Taken together, we demonstrate that CaMKII is not critically involved in acute I/R-induced damage but in the process of post-infarct remodeling and inflammatory processes. PMID:25193973

  1. Biocorrosion of 316LV steel used in oral cavity due to Desulfotomaculum nigrificans bacteria.

    PubMed

    Mystkowska, Joanna; Ferreira, Jose A; Leszczyńska, Katarzyna; Chmielewska, Sylwia; Dąbrowski, Jan Ryszard; Wieciński, Piotr; Kurzydłowski, Krzysztof Jan

    2017-01-01

    Corrosion processes of metallic biomaterials in the oral cavity pose a significant limitation to the life and reliable functioning of dental materials. In this article, the influence of environment bacteria Desulfotomaculum nigrificans sulfate reducing bacteria on the corrosion processes of 316LV steel was assessed. After 14 and 28 days of contact of the material with the bacterial environment, the surfaces of the tested biomaterial were observed by means of confocal scanning laser microscopy, and their chemical composition was studied using X-Ray Photoelectron Spectrometry and a scanning transmission electron microscopy. Corrosive changes, the presence of sulfur (with atomic concentration of 0.5%) on the surface of the biomaterial and the presence of a thin oxide layer (thickness of ∼20 nm) under the surface of the steel were observed. This corrosion layer with significant size reduction of grains was characterized by an increased amount of oxygen (18% mas., p < 0.001) in comparison to untreated 316LV steel (where oxygen concentration - 10% mas.). Image analysis conducted using APHELION software indicated that corrosion pits took up ∼2.8% of the total tested surface. The greatest number of corrosion pits had a surface area within the range of 100-200 μm 2 . © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 222-229, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  2. Left ventricular geometry in children and adolescents with primary hypertension

    PubMed Central

    Richey, Phyllis A.; DiSessa, Thomas G.; Somes, Grant W.; Alpert, Bruce S.; Jones, Deborah P.

    2009-01-01

    Objective Children with hypertension (HTN) are at increased risk for left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Increased LV mass by the process of remodeling in response to volume or pressure loading may be eccentric (increased LV diameter) or concentric (increased wall thickness). Our objective was to classify LV geometry among children with primary HTN and examine differences in ambulatory blood pressure (ABP). Study design Subjects aged 7-18 years with suspected HTN were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. ABP and LVM index (LVMI) and were measured within the same 24 hour period. LV geometry was classified as normal, concentric remodeling, concentric LVH or eccentric LVH. Results Children with LVH had significantly higher ambulatory systolic and diastolic BP levels and BMI z-score. Sixty-eight children had HTN based upon ABPM. Thirty-eight percent of the hypertensive subjects had LVH, with equal distribution in the concentric and eccentric groups. There were significant differences in the 24-hour diastolic BP (DBP) parameters when the eccentric LVH group was compared to the normal geometry and concentric LVH groups. Relative wall thickness was inversely associated with nighttime DBP parameters. These relationships persisted after controlling for BMI Z-score. Conclusions While the risk for LVH is associated with increased systolic BP and BMI Z-score, those with eccentric LVH had significantly higher DBP. PMID:19851297

  3. The Psycho-cardiac Coupling, Myocardial Remodeling, and Neuroendocrine Factor Levels: The Psychosomatics of Major Depressive Disorder.

    PubMed

    Syeda, Javeria N; Rutkofsky, Ian H; Muhammad, Adnan S; Balla Abdalla, Tarig H; Saghir, Zahid

    2018-04-11

    The association of major depressive disorder (MDD) with myocardial infarction (MI) and vice versa is not unknown. Depression, along with many other systemic factors like atherosclerosis, obesity, diabetes and vascular dysfunction, contributes to the development of adverse cardiac events in the future and, has always been a topic of interest in the fields of cardiology and psychosomatics. We wrote this review article to elaborate this relationship in detail. This article suggests that the individuals with type D personality who already had cardiovascular disease had undergone more serious myocardial damage. In addition, we elucidated the effects of depression on sympathetic activity and remodeling of myocardium after MI. The alterations in the neuroendocrine factors, which included the changes in levels of Serotonin (5-HT), Norepinephrine and Corticosterone, also geared towards the changes associated with depression-induced myocardial injury. However, we need more studies in the near future to further dig into this association process. Therefore, we recommend more research to explore the relationship of psychological factors and adverse cardiac outcomes.

  4. MMPs-Mediated ECM Remodeling

    PubMed

    Mali, Aniket V; Joshi, Asavari A; Hegde, Mahabaleshwar V; Kadam, Shivajirao S

    2017-04-01

    Background: To enhance their own survival, tumor cells can manipulate their microenvironment through remodeling of the extra cellular matrix (ECM). The urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) system catalyzes plasmin production which further mediates activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and plays an important role in breast cancer invasion and metastasis through ECM remodeling. This provides a potential target for therapeutic intervention of breast cancer treatment. Enterolactone (EL) is derived from dietary flax lignans in the human body and is known to have anti-breast cancer activity. We here investigated molecular and cellular mechanisms of EL action on the uPA-plasmin- MMPs system. Methods: MTT and trypan blue dye exclusion assays, anchorage-dependent clonogenic assays and wound healing assays were carried out to study effects on cell proliferation and viability, clonogenicity and migration capacity, respectively. Real-time PCR was employed to study gene expression and gelatin zymography was used to assess MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities. All data were statistically analysed and presented as mean ± SEM values. Results: All the findings collectively demonstrated anticancer and antimetastatic potential of EL with antiproliferative, antimigratory and anticlonogenic cellular mechanisms. EL was found to exhibit multiple control of plasmin activation by down-regulating uPA expression and also up-regulating its natural inhibitor, PAI-1, at the mRNA level. Further, EL was found to down-regulate expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 genes, and up-regulate TIMP-1 and TIMP-2; natural inhibitors of MMP-2 and MMP-9, respectively. This may be as a consequence of inhibition of plasmin activation, resulting in robust control over migration and invasion of breast cancer cells during metastasis. Conclusions: EL suppresses proliferation, migration and metastasis of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells by inhibiting induced ECM remodeling by the ‘uPA-plasmin-MMPs system’. Creative

  5. Bone modeling and remodeling: potential as therapeutic targets for the treatment of osteoporosis.

    PubMed

    Langdahl, Bente; Ferrari, Serge; Dempster, David W

    2016-12-01

    The adult skeleton is renewed by remodeling throughout life. Bone remodeling is a process where osteoclasts and osteoblasts work sequentially in the same bone remodeling unit. After the attainment of peak bone mass, bone remodeling is balanced and bone mass is stable for one or two decades until age-related bone loss begins. Age-related bone loss is caused by increases in resorptive activity and reduced bone formation. The relative importance of cortical remodeling increases with age as cancellous bone is lost and remodeling activity in both compartments increases. Bone modeling describes the process whereby bones are shaped or reshaped by the independent action of osteoblast and osteoclasts. The activities of osteoblasts and osteoclasts are not necessarily coupled anatomically or temporally. Bone modeling defines skeletal development and growth but continues throughout life. Modeling-based bone formation contributes to the periosteal expansion, just as remodeling-based resorption is responsible for the medullary expansion seen at the long bones with aging. Existing and upcoming treatments affect remodeling as well as modeling. Teriparatide stimulates bone formation, 70% of which is remodeling based and 20-30% is modeling based. The vast majority of modeling represents overflow from remodeling units rather than de novo modeling. Denosumab inhibits bone remodeling but is permissive for modeling at cortex. Odanacatib inhibits bone resorption by inhibiting cathepsin K activity, whereas modeling-based bone formation is stimulated at periosteal surfaces. Inhibition of sclerostin stimulates bone formation and histomorphometric analysis demonstrated that bone formation is predominantly modeling based. The bone-mass response to some osteoporosis treatments in humans certainly suggests that nonremodeling mechanisms contribute to this response and bone modeling may be such a mechanism. To date, this has only been demonstrated for teriparatide, however, it is clear that

  6. Long-Term Outcome of Administration of c-kitPOS Cardiac Progenitor Cells After Acute Myocardial Infarction: Transplanted Cells Do Not Become Cardiomyocytes, Structural and Functional Improvement and Proliferation of Endogenous Cells Persist for at Least One Year

    PubMed Central

    Tang, Xian-Liang; Li, Qianhong; Rokosh, Gregg; Sanganalmath, Santosh K.; Chen, Ning; Ou, Qinghui; Stowers, Heather; Hunt, Greg; Bolli, Roberto

    2016-01-01

    RATIONALE Cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs) improve left ventricular (LV) remodeling and function after acute or chronic myocardial infarction (MI). However, the long-term (>5 weeks) effects, potential tumorigenicity, and fate of transplanted CPCs are unknown. OBJECTIVE To assess the outcome of CPC therapy at 1 year. METHODS AND RESULTS Female rats underwent a 90-min coronary occlusion; 4 h after reperfusion, they received intracoronarily vehicle or 1 million male, syngeneic CPCs. One year later, CPC-treated rats exhibited smaller scars and more viable myocardium in the risk region, along with improved LV remodeling and regional and global LV function. No tumors were observed. Some transplanted (Y-chromosomePOS) CPCs (or their progeny) persisted and continued to proliferate, but they failed to acquire a mature cardiomyocyte phenotype and were too few (4-8% of nuclei) to account for the benefits of CPC therapy. Surprisingly, CPC transplantation triggered a prolonged proliferative response of endogenous cells, resulting in increased formation of endothelial cells and Y-chromosomeNEG CPCs for 12 months and increased formation, for at least 7 months, of small cells that expressed cardiomyocytic proteins (α-sarcomeric actin) but did not have a mature cardiomyocyte phenotype. CONCLUSIONS The beneficial effects of CPCs on LV remodeling and dysfunction are sustained for at least 1 year, and thus are likely to be permanent. Since transplanted CPCs do not differentiate into mature myocytes, their major mechanism of action must involve paracrine actions. These paracrine mechanisms could be very prolonged because some CPCs engraft, proliferate, and persist at 1 year. This is the first report that transplantation of any cell type in the heart induces a proliferative response that lasts at least 1 year. The results strongly support the safety and clinical utility of CPC therapy. PMID:26838790

  7. Computed tomography-based diagnosis of diffuse compensatory enlargement of coronary arteries using scaling power laws.

    PubMed

    Huo, Yunlong; Choy, Jenny Susana; Wischgoll, Thomas; Luo, Tong; Teague, Shawn D; Bhatt, Deepak L; Kassab, Ghassan S

    2013-04-06

    Glagov's positive remodelling in the early stages of coronary atherosclerosis often results in plaque rupture and acute events. Because positive remodelling is generally diffused along the epicardial coronary arterial tree, it is difficult to diagnose non-invasively. Hence, the objective of the study is to assess the use of scaling power law for the diagnosis of positive remodelling of coronary arteries based on computed tomography (CT) images. Epicardial coronary arterial trees were reconstructed from CT scans of six Ossabaw pigs fed on a high-fat, high-cholesterol, atherogenic diet for eight months as well as the same number of body-weight-matched farm pigs fed on a lean chow (101.9±16.1 versus 91.5±13.1 kg). The high-fat diet Ossabaw pig model showed diffuse positive remodelling of epicardial coronary arteries. Good fit of measured coronary data to the length-volume scaling power law ( where L(c) and V(c) are crown length and volume) were found for both the high-fat and control groups (R(2) = 0.95±0.04 and 0.99±0.01, respectively). The coefficient, K(LV), decreased significantly in the high-fat diet group when compared with the control (14.6±2.6 versus 40.9±5.6). The flow-length scaling power law, however, was nearly unaffected by the positive remodelling. The length-volume and flow-length scaling power laws were preserved in epicardial coronary arterial trees after positive remodelling. K(LV) < 18 in the length-volume scaling relation is a good index of positive remodelling of coronary arteries. These findings provide a clinical rationale for simple, accurate and non-invasive diagnosis of positive remodelling of coronary arteries, using conventional CT scans.

  8. RAMCO Remodel America Corp.Information Sheet

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    RAMCO Remodel America Corp. (the Company) is located in Memphis, Tennessee. The settlement involves renovation activities conducted at a property constructed prior to 1978, located in Memphis, Tennessee.

  9. Gender-related differences in β-adrenergic receptor-mediated cardiac remodeling.

    PubMed

    Zhu, Baoling; Liu, Kai; Yang, Chengzhi; Qiao, Yuhui; Li, Zijian

    2016-12-01

    Cardiac remodeling is the pathological basis of various cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we found gender-related differences in β-adrenergic receptor (AR)-mediated pathological cardiac remodeling. Cardiac remodeling model was established by subcutaneous injection of isoprenaline (ISO) for 14 days. Heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and echocardiography were obtained on 7th and 14th days during ISO administration. Myocardial cross-sectional area and the ratio of heart mass to tibia length (HM/TL) were detected to assess cardiac hypertrophy. Picro-Sirius red staining (picric acid + Sirius red F3B) was used to evaluate cardiac fibrosis. Myocardial capillary density was assessed by immunohistochemistry for von Willebrand factor. Further, real-time PCR was used to measure the expression of β1-AR and β2-AR. Results showed that ISO induced cardiac remodeling, the extent of which was different between female and male mice. The extent of increase in cardiac wall thickness, myocardial cross-sectional area, and collagen deposition in females was less than that in males. However, no gender-related difference was observed in HR, MAP, cardiac function, and myocardial capillary density. The distinctive decrease of β2-AR expression, rather than a decrease of β1-AR expression, seemed to result in gender-related differences in cardiac remodeling.

  10. Study on post occupancy evaluation after remodeling in accordance with the `green remodeling certification standards of existing non-residential buildings'- Focusing on the case of H building

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cho, Kyungjoo; Cho, Dongwoo; Yoon, Yosun

    2018-06-01

    South Korea has adopted the Paris Convention and promised to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 37% from business-as-usual (BAU) levels in the `First Basic Plan to Respond to Climate Change'. The reduction goal of greenhouse gas cannot be achieved considering only new buildings; the analysis results shows that the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from existing buildings is essential. `The Green Remodeling Certification Standards', established in South Korea in 2016, is in line with the above plan. The post-occupancy evaluation (POE) of remodeled buildings after applying the `Green Remodeling Certification Standards of Existing Buildings' must be studied for expansion of this scheme. The study results are expected to be used as foundational data for the promotion of remodeling existing buildings.

  11. Trefoil factor-2 reverses airway remodeling changes in allergic airways disease.

    PubMed

    Royce, Simon G; Lim, Clarice; Muljadi, Ruth C; Samuel, Chrishan S; Ververis, Katherine; Karagiannis, Tom C; Giraud, Andrew S; Tang, Mimi L K

    2013-01-01

    Trefoil factor 2 (TFF2) is a small peptide with an important role in mucosal repair. TFF2 is up-regulated in asthma, suggesting a role in asthma pathogenesis. Given its known biological role in promoting epithelial repair, TFF2 might be expected to exert a protective function in limiting the progression of airway remodeling in asthma. The contribution of TFF2 to airway remodeling in asthma was investigated by examining the expression of TFF2 in the airway and lung, and evaluating the effects of recombinant TFF2 treatment on established airway remodeling in a murine model of chronic allergic airways disease (AAD). BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA) or saline for 9 weeks, whereas mice with established OVA-induced AAD were treated with TFF2 or vehicle control (intranasally for 14 d). Effects on airway remodeling, airway inflammation, and airway hyperresponsiveness were then assessed, whereas TFF2 expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. TFF2 expression was significantly increased in the airways of mice with AAD, compared with expression levels in control mice. TFF2 treatment resulted in reduced epithelial thickening, subepithelial collagen deposition, goblet-cell metaplasia, bronchial epithelium apoptosis, and airway hyperresponsiveness (all P < 0.05, versus vehicle control), but TFF2 treatment did not influence airway inflammation. The increased expression of endogenous TFF2 in response to chronic allergic inflammation is insufficient to prevent the progression of airway inflammation and remodeling in a murine model of chronic AAD. However, exogenous TFF2 treatment is effective in reversing aspects of established airway remodeling. TFF2 has potential as a novel treatment for airway remodeling in asthma.

  12. B.B. Contracting & Remodeling Information Sheet

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    B.B. Contracting & Remodeling (the Company) is located in St. Louis, Missouri. The settlement involves renovation activities conducted at property constructed prior to 1978, located in St. Louis, Missouri.

  13. Matrix remodeling between cells and cellular interactions with collagen bundle

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Jihan; Sun, Bo

    When cells are surrounded by complex environment, they continuously probe and interact with it by applying cellular traction forces. As cells apply traction forces, they can sense rigidity of their local environment and remodel the matrix microstructure simultaneously. Previous study shows that single human carcinoma cell (MDA-MB-231) remodeled its surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM) and the matrix remodeling was reversible. In this study we examined the matrix microstructure between cells and cellular interaction between them using quantitative confocal microscopy. The result shows that the matrix microstructure is the most significantly remodeled between cells consisting of aligned, and densified collagen fibers (collagen bundle)., the result shows that collagen bundle is irreversible and significantly change micromechanics of ECM around the bundle. We further examined cellular interaction with collagen bundle by analyzing dynamics of actin and talin formation along with the direction of bundle. Lastly, we analyzed dynamics of cellular protrusion and migrating direction of cells along the bundle.

  14. Favourable effects of exercise training on N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide plasma levels in elderly patients after acute myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Giallauria, Francesco; Lucci, Rosa; De Lorenzo, Anna; D'Agostino, Mariantonietta; Del Forno, Domenico; Vigorito, Carlo

    2006-11-01

    regional or global impairment of left ventricular (LV) systolic or diastolic function leading to increased LV wall stress results in increased circulating levels of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro-BNP). this study aims at evaluating the effect of exercise training (ET) on NT-pro-BNP plasma levels in older patients recovering from acute myocardial infarction (AMI). prospective randomised study. Academic Medical Centre. forty older patients (33 males and 7 females) who experienced AMI. patients were randomised into two groups, each composed of 20 patients: Group A were enrolled in a 3-month exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programme and Group B were discharged home with generic instructions to continue physical activity. NT-pro-BNP, cardiopulmonary and Doppler-echocardiographic parameters were measured at baseline and at 3-month follow-up. in Group A, ET reduced NT-pro-BNP levels (from 1446 +/- 475 to 435 +/- 251 pg/ml, P<0.001) and increased maximal exercise parameters; there was also an inverse correlation between changes in NT-pro-BNP levels and in VO(2peak) (r = -0.67, P<0.01), E-wave (r = -0.42, P<0.01) and E/A ratio (r = -0.60, P<0.01). In Group B, after 3 months, no changes were observed in NT-pro-BNP levels, exercise and echocardiographic parameters. LV volumes and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were unchanged after 3 months in both groups. three months ET in older patients after AMI was associated with a reduction in NT-pro-BNP levels and an overall improvement of exercise capacity, without negative LV remodelling and with improvement in early LV filling. Further investigation is required to evaluate whether in these patients the reduction of NT-pro-BNP levels at 3 months could be useful as a surrogate marker of favourable LV remodelling at a later follow-up.

  15. Preemptive heme oxygenase-1 gene delivery reveals reduced mortality and preservation of left ventricular function 1 yr after acute myocardial infarction.

    PubMed

    Liu, Xiaoli; Simpson, Jeremy A; Brunt, Keith R; Ward, Christopher A; Hall, Sean R R; Kinobe, Robert T; Barrette, Valerie; Tse, M Yat; Pang, Stephen C; Pachori, Alok S; Dzau, Victor J; Ogunyankin, Kofo O; Melo, Luis G

    2007-07-01

    We reported previously that predelivery of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) gene to the heart by adeno-associated virus-2 (AAV-2) markedly reduces ischemia and reperfusion (I/R)-induced myocardial injury. However, the effect of preemptive HO-1 gene delivery on long-term survival and prevention of postinfarction heart failure has not been determined. We assessed the effect of HO-1 gene delivery on long-term survival, myocardial function, and left ventricular (LV) remodeling 1 yr after myocardial infarction (MI) using echocardiographic imaging, pressure-volume (PV) analysis, and histomorphometric approaches. Two groups of Lewis rats were injected with 2 x 10(11) particles of AAV-LacZ (control) or AAV-human HO-1 (hHO-1) in the anterior-posterior apical region of the LV wall. Six weeks after gene transfer, animals were subjected to 30 min of ischemia by ligation of the left anterior descending artery followed by reperfusion. Echocardiographic measurements and PV analysis of LV function were obtained at 2 wk and 12 mo after I/R. One year after acute MI, mortality was markedly reduced in the HO-1-treated animals compared with the LacZ-treated animals. PV analysis demonstrated significantly enhanced LV developed pressure, elevated maximal dP/dt, and lower end-diastolic volume in the HO-1 animals compared with the LacZ animals. Echocardiography showed a larger apical anterior-to-posterior wall ratio in HO-1 animals compared with LacZ animals. Morphometric analysis revealed extensive myocardial scarring and fibrosis in the infarcted LV area of LacZ animals, which was reduced by 62% in HO-1 animals. These results suggest that preemptive HO-1 gene delivery may be useful as a therapeutic strategy to reduce post-MI LV remodeling and heart failure.

  16. Chronic N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester-induced hypertension : novel molecular adaptation to systolic load in absence of hypertrophy

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bartunek, J.; Weinberg, E. O.; Tajima, M.; Rohrbach, S.; Katz, S. E.; Douglas, P. S.; Lorell, B. H.; Schneider, M. (Principal Investigator)

    2000-01-01

    BACKGROUND: Chronic N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), which inhibits nitric oxide synthesis, causes hypertension and would therefore be expected to induce robust cardiac hypertrophy. However, L-NAME has negative metabolic effects on protein synthesis that suppress the increase in left ventricular (LV) mass in response to sustained pressure overload. In the present study, we used L-NAME-induced hypertension to test the hypothesis that adaptation to pressure overload occurs even when hypertrophy is suppressed. METHODS AND RESULTS: Male rats received L-NAME (50 mg. kg(-1). d(-1)) or no drug for 6 weeks. Rats with L-NAME-induced hypertension had levels of systolic wall stress similar to those of rats with aortic stenosis (85+/-19 versus 92+/-16 kdyne/cm). Rats with aortic stenosis developed a nearly 2-fold increase in LV mass compared with controls. In contrast, in the L-NAME rats, no increase in LV mass (1. 00+/-0.03 versus 1.04+/-0.04 g) or hypertrophy of isolated myocytes occurred (3586+/-129 versus 3756+/-135 microm(2)) compared with controls. Nevertheless, chronic pressure overload was not accompanied by the development of heart failure. LV systolic performance was maintained by mechanisms of concentric remodeling (decrease of in vivo LV chamber dimension relative to wall thickness) and augmented myocardial calcium-dependent contractile reserve associated with preserved expression of alpha- and beta-myosin heavy chain isoforms and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) ATPase (SERCA-2). CONCLUSIONS: When the expected compensatory hypertrophic response is suppressed during L-NAME-induced hypertension, severe chronic pressure overload is associated with a successful adaptation to maintain systolic performance; this adaptation depends on both LV remodeling and enhanced contractility in response to calcium.

  17. Drosophila Brahma complex remodels nucleosome organizations in multiple aspects.

    PubMed

    Shi, Jiejun; Zheng, Meizhu; Ye, Youqiong; Li, Min; Chen, Xiaolong; Hu, Xinjie; Sun, Jin; Zhang, Xiaobai; Jiang, Cizhong

    2014-09-01

    ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complexes regulate nucleosome organizations. In Drosophila, gene Brm encodes the core Brahma complex, the ATPase subunit of SWI/SNF class of chromatin remodelers. Its role in modulating the nucleosome landscape in vivo is unclear. In this study, we knocked down Brm in Drosophila third instar larvae to explore the changes in nucleosome profiles and global gene transcription. The results show that Brm knockdown leads to nucleosome occupancy changes throughout the entire genome with a bias in occupancy decrease. In contrast, the knockdown has limited impacts on nucleosome position shift. The knockdown also alters another important physical property of nucleosome positioning, fuzziness. Nucleosome position shift, gain or loss and fuzziness changes are all enriched in promoter regions. Nucleosome arrays around the 5' ends of genes are reorganized in five patterns as a result of Brm knockdown. Intriguingly, the concomitant changes in the genes adjacent to the Brahma-dependent remodeling regions have important roles in development and morphogenesis. Further analyses reveal abundance of AT-rich motifs for transcription factors in the remodeling regions. © The Author(s) 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Nucleic Acids Research.

  18. calculation of B → D*lv form factor at zero recoil using the Oktay-Kronfeld action

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bailey, Jon A.; Bhattacharya, Tanmoy; Gupta, Rajan; Jang, Yong-Chull; Lee, Weonjong; Leem, Jaehoon; Park, Sungwoo; Yoon, Boram

    2018-03-01

    We present the first preliminary results for the semileptonic form factor hA1 (w = 1)/ρAj at zero recoil for the B → D*lv decay using lattice QCD with four flavors of sea quarks. We use the HISQ staggered action for the light valence and sea quarks (the MILC HISQ configurations), and the Oktay-Kronfeld (OK) action for the heavy valence quarks.

  19. A homeostatic-driven turnover remodelling constitutive model for healing in soft tissues

    PubMed Central

    Gasser, T. Christian; Bellomo, Facundo J.

    2016-01-01

    Remodelling of soft biological tissue is characterized by interacting biochemical and biomechanical events, which change the tissue's microstructure, and, consequently, its macroscopic mechanical properties. Remodelling is a well-defined stage of the healing process, and aims at recovering or repairing the injured extracellular matrix. Like other physiological processes, remodelling is thought to be driven by homeostasis, i.e. it tends to re-establish the properties of the uninjured tissue. However, homeostasis may never be reached, such that remodelling may also appear as a continuous pathological transformation of diseased tissues during aneurysm expansion, for example. A simple constitutive model for soft biological tissues that regards remodelling as homeostatic-driven turnover is developed. Specifically, the recoverable effective tissue damage, whose rate is the sum of a mechanical damage rate and a healing rate, serves as a scalar internal thermodynamic variable. In order to integrate the biochemical and biomechanical aspects of remodelling, the healing rate is, on the one hand, driven by mechanical stimuli, but, on the other hand, subjected to simple metabolic constraints. The proposed model is formulated in accordance with continuum damage mechanics within an open-system thermodynamics framework. The numerical implementation in an in-house finite-element code is described, particularized for Ogden hyperelasticity. Numerical examples illustrate the basic constitutive characteristics of the model and demonstrate its potential in representing aspects of remodelling of soft tissues. Simulation results are verified for their plausibility, but also validated against reported experimental data. PMID:27009177

  20. A homeostatic-driven turnover remodelling constitutive model for healing in soft tissues.

    PubMed

    Comellas, Ester; Gasser, T Christian; Bellomo, Facundo J; Oller, Sergio

    2016-03-01

    Remodelling of soft biological tissue is characterized by interacting biochemical and biomechanical events, which change the tissue's microstructure, and, consequently, its macroscopic mechanical properties. Remodelling is a well-defined stage of the healing process, and aims at recovering or repairing the injured extracellular matrix. Like other physiological processes, remodelling is thought to be driven by homeostasis, i.e. it tends to re-establish the properties of the uninjured tissue. However, homeostasis may never be reached, such that remodelling may also appear as a continuous pathological transformation of diseased tissues during aneurysm expansion, for example. A simple constitutive model for soft biological tissues that regards remodelling as homeostatic-driven turnover is developed. Specifically, the recoverable effective tissue damage, whose rate is the sum of a mechanical damage rate and a healing rate, serves as a scalar internal thermodynamic variable. In order to integrate the biochemical and biomechanical aspects of remodelling, the healing rate is, on the one hand, driven by mechanical stimuli, but, on the other hand, subjected to simple metabolic constraints. The proposed model is formulated in accordance with continuum damage mechanics within an open-system thermodynamics framework. The numerical implementation in an in-house finite-element code is described, particularized for Ogden hyperelasticity. Numerical examples illustrate the basic constitutive characteristics of the model and demonstrate its potential in representing aspects of remodelling of soft tissues. Simulation results are verified for their plausibility, but also validated against reported experimental data. © 2016 The Author(s).

  1. The importance of integrated left atrial evaluation: From hypertension to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

    PubMed

    Beltrami, Matteo; Palazzuoli, Alberto; Padeletti, Luigi; Cerbai, Elisabetta; Coiro, Stefano; Emdin, Michele; Marcucci, Rossella; Morrone, Doralisa; Cameli, Matteo; Savino, Ketty; Pedrinelli, Roberto; Ambrosio, Giuseppe

    2018-02-01

    Functional analysis and measurement of left atrium are an integral part of cardiac evaluation, and they represent a key element during non-invasive analysis of diastolic function in patients with hypertension (HT) and/or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). However, diastolic dysfunction remains quite elusive regarding classification, and atrial size and function are two key factors for left ventricular (LV) filling evaluation. Chronic left atrial (LA) remodelling is the final step of chronic intra-cavitary pressure overload, and it accompanies increased neurohormonal, proarrhythmic and prothrombotic activities. In this systematic review, we aim to purpose a multi-modality approach for LA geometry and function analysis, which integrates diastolic flow with LA characteristics and remodelling through application of both traditional and new diagnostic tools. The most important studies published in the literature on LA size, function and diastolic dysfunction in patients with HFpEF, HT and/or atrial fibrillation (AF) are considered and discussed. In HFpEF and HT, pulsed and tissue Doppler assessments are useful tools to estimate LV filling pressure, atrio-ventricular coupling and LV relaxation but they need to be enriched with LA evaluation in terms of morphology and function. An integrated evaluation should be also applied to patients with a high arrhythmic risk, in whom eccentric LA remodelling and higher LA stiffness are associated with a greater AF risk. Evaluation of LA size, volume, function and structure are mandatory in the management of patients with HT, HFpEF and AF. A multi-modality approach could provide additional information, identifying subjects with more severe LA remodelling. Left atrium assessment deserves an accurate study inside the cardiac imaging approach and optimised measurement with established cut-offs need to be better recognised through multicenter studies. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  2. Cardiac remodeling in preterm infants with prolonged exposure to a patent ductus arteriosus.

    PubMed

    de Waal, Koert; Phad, Nilkant; Collins, Nick; Boyle, Andrew

    2017-05-01

    Sustained volume load due to a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) leads to cardiac remodeling. Remodeling changes can become pathological and are associated with cardiovascular disease progression. Data on remodeling changes in preterm infants is not available. Clinical and echocardiography data were collected in preterm infants <30 weeks gestation on postnatal day 3 and then every 7-14 days until closure of the ductus arteriosus. Images were analyzed using conventional techniques and speckle tracking. Remodeling changes of infants with prolonged (>14 days) exposure to a PDA were compared to control infants without a PDA. Thirty out of 189 infants had prolonged exposure to a PDA. The left heart remodeled to a larger and more spherical shape and thus significantly increased in volume. Most changes occurred in the first 4 weeks, plateaued, and then returned to control values. Systolic function and estimates of filling pressure increased and effective arterial elastance reduced with a PDA, however contractility was unchanged. Wall thickness increased after 4 weeks of increased volume exposure. The preterm PDA induces early and significant remodeling of the left heart. A compensated cardiac physiology was seen with preserved systolic function, suggesting adaptive rather than pathological remodeling changes with prolonged exposure to a PDA. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  3. Computational biomechanics of bone's responses to dental prostheses - osseointegration, remodeling and resorption

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Wei; Rungsiyakull, Chaiy; Field, Clarice; Lin, Daniel; Zhang, Leo; Li, Qing; Swain, Michael

    2010-06-01

    Clinical and experimental studies showed that human bone has the ability to remodel itself to better adapt to its biomechanical environment by changing both its material properties and geometry. As a consequence of the rapid development and extensive applications of major dental restorations such as implantation and fixed partial denture (FPD), the effect of bone remodeling on the success of a dental restorative surgery is becoming critical for prosthetic design and pre-surgical assessment. This paper aims to provide a computational biomechanics framework to address dental bone's responses as a result of dental restoration. It explored three important issues of resorption, apposition and osseointegration in terms of remodeling simulation. The published remodeling data in long bones were regulated to drive the computational remodeling prediction for the dental bones by correlating the results to clinical data. It is anticipated that the study will provide a more predictive model of dental bone response and help develop a new design methodology for patient-specific dental prosthetic restoration.

  4. Long-Term Overexpression of Hsp70 Does Not Protect against Cardiac Dysfunction and Adverse Remodeling in a MURC Transgenic Mouse Model with Chronic Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation

    PubMed Central

    Bernardo, Bianca C.; Sapra, Geeta; Patterson, Natalie L.; Cemerlang, Nelly; Kiriazis, Helen; Ueyama, Tomomi; Febbraio, Mark A.; McMullen, Julie R.

    2015-01-01

    Previous animal studies had shown that increasing heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) using a transgenic, gene therapy or pharmacological approach provided cardiac protection in models of acute cardiac stress. Furthermore, clinical studies had reported associations between Hsp70 levels and protection against atrial fibrillation (AF). AF is the most common cardiac arrhythmia presenting in cardiology clinics and is associated with increased rates of heart failure and stroke. Improved therapies for AF and heart failure are urgently required. Despite promising observations in animal studies which targeted Hsp70, we recently reported that increasing Hsp70 was unable to attenuate cardiac dysfunction and pathology in a mouse model which develops heart failure and intermittent AF. Given our somewhat unexpected finding and the extensive literature suggesting Hsp70 provides cardiac protection, it was considered important to assess whether Hsp70 could provide protection in another mouse model of heart failure and AF. The aim of the current study was to determine whether increasing Hsp70 could attenuate adverse cardiac remodeling, cardiac dysfunction and episodes of arrhythmia in a mouse model of heart failure and AF due to overexpression of Muscle-Restricted Coiled-Coil (MURC). Cardiac function and pathology were assessed in mice at approximately 12 months of age. We report here, that chronic overexpression of Hsp70 was unable to provide protection against cardiac dysfunction, conduction abnormalities, fibrosis or characteristic molecular markers of the failing heart. In summary, elevated Hsp70 may provide protection in acute cardiac stress settings, but appears insufficient to protect the heart under chronic cardiac disease conditions. PMID:26660322

  5. Long-Term Overexpression of Hsp70 Does Not Protect against Cardiac Dysfunction and Adverse Remodeling in a MURC Transgenic Mouse Model with Chronic Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation.

    PubMed

    Bernardo, Bianca C; Sapra, Geeta; Patterson, Natalie L; Cemerlang, Nelly; Kiriazis, Helen; Ueyama, Tomomi; Febbraio, Mark A; McMullen, Julie R

    2015-01-01

    Previous animal studies had shown that increasing heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) using a transgenic, gene therapy or pharmacological approach provided cardiac protection in models of acute cardiac stress. Furthermore, clinical studies had reported associations between Hsp70 levels and protection against atrial fibrillation (AF). AF is the most common cardiac arrhythmia presenting in cardiology clinics and is associated with increased rates of heart failure and stroke. Improved therapies for AF and heart failure are urgently required. Despite promising observations in animal studies which targeted Hsp70, we recently reported that increasing Hsp70 was unable to attenuate cardiac dysfunction and pathology in a mouse model which develops heart failure and intermittent AF. Given our somewhat unexpected finding and the extensive literature suggesting Hsp70 provides cardiac protection, it was considered important to assess whether Hsp70 could provide protection in another mouse model of heart failure and AF. The aim of the current study was to determine whether increasing Hsp70 could attenuate adverse cardiac remodeling, cardiac dysfunction and episodes of arrhythmia in a mouse model of heart failure and AF due to overexpression of Muscle-Restricted Coiled-Coil (MURC). Cardiac function and pathology were assessed in mice at approximately 12 months of age. We report here, that chronic overexpression of Hsp70 was unable to provide protection against cardiac dysfunction, conduction abnormalities, fibrosis or characteristic molecular markers of the failing heart. In summary, elevated Hsp70 may provide protection in acute cardiac stress settings, but appears insufficient to protect the heart under chronic cardiac disease conditions.

  6. Profilin-1 Promotes the Development of Hypertension-induced Artery Remodeling

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Yan; Zhang, Jun; Gao, Haiqing; Zhao, Shaohua; Ji, Xiang; Liu, Xiangju; You, Beian; Li, Xiao

    2014-01-01

    Hypertension is associated with the structural remodeling and stiffening of arteries and is known to increase cardiovascular risk. In the present study, we investigated the effects of overexpression and knock down of profilin-1 on the vascular structural remodeling in spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHRs) using an adenovirus injection to knock down or overexpress profilin-1 mRNA. As a control, blank adenovirus was injected into age-matched SHRs and Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKYs). We quantified arterial structural remodeling through morphological methods, with thoracic aortas stained with hematoxylin–eosin and picosirius red. Western blotting was performed to measure the protein expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38), and peroxynitrite was quantified by immunohistochemical staining. Overexpression of profilin-1 significantly promoted aortic remodeling, including an increase in vessel size, wall thickness, and collagen content, whereas the knockdown of profilin-1 could reverse these effects. In addition, the expression of phosphorylated p38, iNOS and peroxynitrite was significantly upregulated in SHRs with profilin-1 overexpression along with an increased level of interleukin- 6 (IL-6). These changes could be reversed by knockdown of profilin-1. Our results demonstrate a crucial role for profilin-1 in hypertension-induced arterial structural remodeling at least in part through the p38–iNOS–peroxynitrite pathway. PMID:24399041

  7. Dynamic microtubules drive circuit rewiring in the absence of neurite remodeling

    PubMed Central

    Kurup, Naina; Yan, Dong; Goncharov, Alexandr; Jin, Yishi

    2015-01-01

    A striking neuronal connectivity change in C. elegans involves the coordinated elimination of existing synapses and formation of synapses at new locations, without altering neuronal morphology. Here, we investigate the tripartite interaction between dynamic microtubules (MTs), kinesin-1, and vesicular cargo during this synapse remodeling. We find that a reduction in the dynamic MT population in motor neuron axons, resulting from genetic interaction between loss of function in the conserved MAPKKK dlk-1 and an α-tubulin mutation, specifically blocks synapse remodeling. Using live imaging and pharmacological modulation of the MT cytoskeleton, we show that dynamic MTs are increased at the onset of remodeling and are critical for new synapse formation. DLK-1 acts during synapse remodeling, and its function involves MT catastrophe factors including kinesin-13/KLP-7 and spastin/SPAS-1. Through a forward genetic screen, we identify gain-of-function mutations in kinesin-1 that can compensate for reduced dynamic MTs to promote synaptic vesicle transport during remodeling. Our data provide in vivo evidence supporting the requirement of dynamic MTs for kinesin-1 dependent axonal transport and shed insight on the role of the MT cytoskeleton in facilitating neural circuit plasticity. PMID:26051896

  8. Periprosthetic bone remodelling of short-stem total hip arthroplasty: a systematic review.

    PubMed

    Yan, Shuang G; Weber, Patrick; Steinbrück, Arnd; Hua, Xingyi; Jansson, Volkmar; Schmidutz, Florian

    2017-11-27

    Short-stem hip arthroplasty (SHA) was designed to preserve bone stock and provide an improved load transfer. To gain more evidence regarding the load transfer, this review analysed the periprosthetic bone remodelling of SHA in comparison to standard hip arthroplasty (THA). PubMed and ScienceDirect were screened to extract dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) studies evaluating the periprosthetic bone remodelling of SHA and two proven THA designs. From the studies included, the postoperative change in periprosthetic bone mineral density (BMD) after one year and the trend over two years was determined. Fifteen studies with four SHAs (CFP, Metha, Nanos, Fitmore) and two THAs (CLS and Bicontact) designs were included. All SHA and THA stems revealed an initial decrease at the calcar and major trochanter (Gruen 1 and 7) with the Metha, Nanos and Fitmore showing a smaller and more balanced remodelling compared to THA. The pattern after one year and the trend over two years argue for a methaphyseal anchorage of the Metha and Nanos, whereas the Fitmore and CFP seem to anchor metha-diaphyseal. Clearly different pattern of bone remodelling were observed between all four SHAs. Periprosthetic bone remodelling is also present in SHA, with the main bone reduction observed proximally. However, certain SHA stems show a more balanced remodelling compared to THA, arguing for a favourable load transfer. Also, the femoral length where bone remodelling occurs is clearly shorter in SHA. As distinctively different pattern between the SHA designs were observed, they should not be judged as a single implant group.

  9. IRAK4 deficiency promotes cardiac remodeling induced by pressure overload

    PubMed Central

    Yuan, Yuan; Gan, Huawen; Dai, Jia; Zhou, Heng; Deng, Wei; Zong, Jing; Bian, Zhouyan; Liao, Haihan; Li, Hongliang; Tang, Qizhu

    2015-01-01

    Background: Interluekin1 receptor-associated kinase-4 (IRAK4) plays an essential role in the innate immune system. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of IRAK4 in cardiac remodeling induced by pressure overload and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Methods: In vivo studies were performed using IRAK4 heterozygous knockout (HET) mice and wild type (WT) mice. Models of cardiac remodeling were induced by aortic banding (AB). Cardiac remodeling was evaluated by Echocardiography and histological analysis. Results: IRAK4 was upregulated in hearts of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) patients and also pressure overload-induced mice hearts. IRAK4 HET mice exhibited exacerbated cardiac hypertrophy, dysfunction and fibrosis after 4 weeks of AB compared with that in WT mice. Furthermore, enhanced activation of the MEK-ERK1/2, p38 and NFκB pathways was found in IRAK4 HET mice compared to WT mice. Conclusion: Our results suggest that IRAK4 may play a crucial role in the development of cardiac remodeling via negative regulation of multiple signaling pathways. PMID:26884959

  10. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, tobacco smoke, and epigenetic remodeling in asthma

    PubMed Central

    Klingbeil, E. C.; Hew, K. M.; Nygaard, U. C.; Nadeau, K. C.

    2014-01-01

    Environmental determinants including aerosolized pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and tobacco smoke have been associated with exacerbation and increased incidence of asthma. The influence of aerosolized pollutants on the development of immune dysfunction in asthmatics has been suggested to be mediated through epigenetic remodeling. Genome accessibility and transcription are regulated primarily through DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA transcript silencing. Epigenetic remodeling has been shown in studies to be associated with Th2 polarization and associated cytokine and chemokine regulation in the development of asthma. This review will present evidence for the contribution of the aerosolized pollutants PAH and environmental tobacco smoke to epigenetic remodeling in asthma. PMID:24760221

  11. Molecular Imaging of Activated Matrix Metalloproteinases in Vascular Remodeling

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Jiasheng; Nie, Lei; Razavian, Mahmoud; Ahmed, Masood; Dobrucki, Lawrence W.; Asadi, Abolfazl; Edwards, D. Scott; Azure, Michael; Sinusas, Albert J.; Sadeghi, Mehran M.

    2008-01-01

    Background Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activation plays a key role in vascular remodeling. RP782 is a novel 111In –labeled tracer with specificity for activated MMPs. We hypothesized that RP782 can detect injury-induced vascular remodeling in vivo. Methods and Results Left common carotid artery injury was induced using a guide wire in apolipoprotein E-/- mice. Sham surgery was performed on the contralateral artery, which served as control for imaging experiments. Carotid wire injury led to significant hyperplasia and expansive remodeling over a period of 4 weeks. MMP activity detected by in-situ zymography, increased in response to injury and was maximal by 3-4 weeks after injury. RP782 (11.1 MBq) was injected intravenously to apolipoprotein E-/- mice at 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks after left carotid injury. MicroSPECT imaging was performed at 2 hours and was followed by CT angiography to localize the carotid arteries. In vivo images revealed focal uptake of RP782 in the injured carotid artery at 2, 3 and 4 weeks. Increased tracer uptake in the injured artery was confirmed by quantitative autoradiography. Pretreatment with 50-fold excess non-labeled tracer significantly reduced RP782 uptake in injured carotids, demonstrating uptake specificity. Weekly changes in the vessel wall area closely paralleled and correlated with RP782 uptake (Spearman r=0.95, p=0.001). Conclusions Injury-induced MMP activation in the vessel wall can be detected by RP782 microSPECT/CT imaging in vivo. RP782 uptake tracks the hyperplastic process in vascular remodeling, and provides an opportunity to track the remodeling process in vivo. PMID:18936327

  12. Regulator of calcineurin 1 mediates pathological vascular wall remodeling

    PubMed Central

    Esteban, Vanesa; Méndez-Barbero, Nerea; Jesús Jiménez-Borreguero, Luis; Roqué, Mercè; Novensá, Laura; Belén García-Redondo, Ana; Salaices, Mercedes; Vila, Luis; Arbonés, María L.

    2011-01-01

    Artery wall remodeling, a major feature of diseases such as hypertension, restenosis, atherosclerosis, and aneurysm, involves changes in the tunica media mass that reduce or increase the vessel lumen. The identification of molecules involved in vessel remodeling could aid the development of improved treatments for these pathologies. Angiotensin II (AngII) is a key effector of aortic wall remodeling that contributes to aneurysm formation and restenosis through incompletely defined signaling pathways. We show that AngII induces vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration and vessel remodeling in mouse models of restenosis and aneurysm. These effects were prevented by pharmacological inhibition of calcineurin (CN) or lentiviral delivery of CN-inhibitory peptides. Whole-genome analysis revealed >1,500 AngII-regulated genes in VSMCs, with just 11 of them requiring CN activation. Of these, the most sensitive to CN activation was regulator of CN 1 (Rcan1). Rcan1 was strongly activated by AngII in vitro and in vivo and was required for AngII-induced VSMC migration. Remarkably, Rcan1−/− mice were resistant to AngII-induced aneurysm and restenosis. Our results indicate that aneurysm formation and restenosis share mechanistic elements and identify Rcan1 as a potential therapeutic target for prevention of aneurysm and restenosis progression. PMID:21930771

  13. Age-related motor unit remodeling in the Tibialis Anterior.

    PubMed

    Siddiqi, Ariba; Kumar, Dinesh; Arjunan, Sridhar

    2015-01-01

    Limited studies exist on the use of surface electromyogram (EMG) signal features to detect age-related motor unit remodeling in the Tibialis Anterior. Motor unit remodeling leads to declined muscle strength and force steadiness during submaximal contractions which are factors for risk of falls in the elderly. This study investigated the remodeling phenomena in the Tibialis Anterior using sample entropy and higher order statistics. Eighteen young (26.1 ± 2.9 years) and twelve elderly (68.7 ± 9.0 years) participants performed isometric dorsiflexion of the ankle at 20% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and their Tibialis Anterior (TA) EMG was recorded. Sample entropy, Gaussianity and Linearity Test statistics were calculated from the recorded EMG for each MVC. Shapiro-Wilk test was used to determine normality, and either a two-tail student t-test or Wilcoxon rank sum test was performed to determine significant difference in the EMG features between the young and old cohorts. Results show age-related motor unit remodeling to be depicted by decreased sample entropy (p <; 0.1), increased non-Gaussianity (p <; 0.05) and lesser degree of linearity in the elderly. This is due to the increased sparsity of the MUAPs as a result of the denervation-reinnervation process, and the decrease in total number of motor units.

  14. Non-Equilibrium Cytoquake Dynamics in Cytoskeletal Remodeling and Stabilization

    PubMed Central

    Alencar, Adriano Mesquita; Ferraz, Mariana Sacrini Ayres; Park, Chan Young; Millet, Emil; Trepat, Xavier; Butler, James P.; Fredberg, Jeffrey J.

    2016-01-01

    The cytoskeleton (CSK) is a tensed fiber framework that supports, shapes and stabilizes the cell. The CSK is in a constant state of remodeling, moreover, which is an active non-equilibrium thermodynamic process. We report here that cytoskeletal remodeling involves reconfigurations that are not only sudden but also are transmitted to great distances within the cell in a fashion reminiscent of quakes in the Earth's crust. Remarkably, these events in the cell conform both qualitatively and quantitatively to empirical laws typical of earthquakes, including hierarchical fault structures, cumulative energy distributions following the Gutenberg-Richter law, and rate of after-shocks following Omori's law. While it is well-established that remodeling and stabilization of the cytoskeleton are non-equilibrium process, these new unanticipated observations establish that these processes are also remarkably non-local and strongly cooperative. PMID:27722665

  15. Glucocorticoid suppression of osteocyte perilacunar remodeling is associated with subchondral bone degeneration in osteonecrosis

    DOE PAGES

    Fowler, Tristan W.; Acevedo, Claire; Mazur, Courtney M.; ...

    2017-03-22

    Through a process called perilacunar remodeling, bone-embedded osteocytes dynamically resorb and replace the surrounding perilacunar bone matrix to maintain mineral homeostasis. The vital canalicular networks required for osteocyte nourishment and communication, as well as the exquisitely organized bone extracellular matrix, also depend upon perilacunar remodeling. Nonetheless, many questions remain about the regulation of perilacunar remodeling and its role in skeletal disease. We find that suppression of osteocyte-driven perilacunar remodeling, a fundamental cellular mechanism, plays a critical role in the glucocorticoid-induced osteonecrosis. In glucocorticoid-treated mice, we find that glucocorticoids coordinately suppress expression of several proteases required for perilacunar remodeling while causingmore » degeneration of the osteocyte lacunocanalicular network, collagen disorganization, and matrix hypermineralization; all of which are apparent in human osteonecrotic lesions. Therefore, osteocyte-mediated perilacunar remodeling maintains bone homeostasis, is dysregulated in skeletal disease, and may represent an attractive therapeutic target for the treatment of osteonecrosis.« less

  16. Glucocorticoid suppression of osteocyte perilacunar remodeling is associated with subchondral bone degeneration in osteonecrosis

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fowler, Tristan W.; Acevedo, Claire; Mazur, Courtney M.

    Through a process called perilacunar remodeling, bone-embedded osteocytes dynamically resorb and replace the surrounding perilacunar bone matrix to maintain mineral homeostasis. The vital canalicular networks required for osteocyte nourishment and communication, as well as the exquisitely organized bone extracellular matrix, also depend upon perilacunar remodeling. Nonetheless, many questions remain about the regulation of perilacunar remodeling and its role in skeletal disease. We find that suppression of osteocyte-driven perilacunar remodeling, a fundamental cellular mechanism, plays a critical role in the glucocorticoid-induced osteonecrosis. In glucocorticoid-treated mice, we find that glucocorticoids coordinately suppress expression of several proteases required for perilacunar remodeling while causingmore » degeneration of the osteocyte lacunocanalicular network, collagen disorganization, and matrix hypermineralization; all of which are apparent in human osteonecrotic lesions. Therefore, osteocyte-mediated perilacunar remodeling maintains bone homeostasis, is dysregulated in skeletal disease, and may represent an attractive therapeutic target for the treatment of osteonecrosis.« less

  17. Computational modelling of left-ventricular diastolic mechanics: effect of fibre orientation and right-ventricle topology.

    PubMed

    Palit, Arnab; Bhudia, Sunil K; Arvanitis, Theodoros N; Turley, Glen A; Williams, Mark A

    2015-02-26

    Majority of heart failure patients who suffer from diastolic dysfunction retain normal systolic pump action. The dysfunction remodels the myocardial fibre structure of left-ventricle (LV), changing its regular diastolic behaviour. Existing LV diastolic models ignored the effects of right-ventricular (RV) deformation, resulting in inaccurate strain analysis of LV wall during diastole. This paper, for the first time, proposes a numerical approach to investigate the effect of fibre-angle distribution and RV deformation on LV diastolic mechanics. A finite element modelling of LV passive inflation was carried out, using structure-based orthotropic constitutive law. Rule-based fibre architecture was assigned on a bi-ventricular (BV) geometry constructed from non-invasive imaging of human heart. The effect of RV deformation on LV diastolic mechanics was investigated by comparing the results predicted by BV and single LV model constructed from the same image data. Results indicated an important influence of RV deformation which led to additional LV passive inflation and increase of average fibre and sheet stress-strain in LV wall during diastole. Sensitivity of LV passive mechanics to the changes in the fibre distribution was also examined. The study revealed that LV diastolic volume increased when fibres were aligned more towards LV longitudinal axis. Changes in fibre angle distribution significantly altered fibre stress-strain distribution of LV wall. The simulation results strongly suggest that patient-specific fibre structure and RV deformation play very important roles in LV diastolic mechanics and should be accounted for in computational modelling for improved understanding of the LV mechanics under normal and pathological conditions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Mechanical remodeling of normally sized mammalian cells under a gravity vector.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Chen; Zhou, Lüwen; Zhang, Fan; Lü, Dongyuan; Li, Ning; Zheng, Lu; Xu, Yanhong; Li, Zhan; Sun, Shujin; Long, Mian

    2017-02-01

    Translocation of the dense nucleus along a gravity vector initiates mechanical remodeling of a cell, but the underlying mechanisms of cytoskeletal network and focal adhesion complex (FAC) reorganization in a mammalian cell remain unclear. We quantified the remodeling of an MC3T3-E1 cell placed in upward-, downward-, or edge-on-orientated substrate. Nucleus longitudinal translocation presents a high value in downward orientation at 24 h or in edge-on orientation at 72 h, which is consistent with orientation-dependent distribution of perinuclear actin stress fibers and vimentin cords. Redistribution of total FAC area and fractionized super mature adhesion number coordinates this dependence at short duration. This orientation-dependent remodeling is associated with nucleus flattering and lamin A/C phosphorylation. Actin depolymerization or Rho-associated protein kinase signaling inhibition abolishes the orientation dependence of nucleus translocation, whereas tubulin polymerization inhibition or vimentin disruption reserves the dependence. A biomechanical model is therefore proposed for integrating the mechanosensing of nucleus translocation with cytoskeletal remodeling and FAC reorganization induced by a gravity vector.-Zhang, C., Zhou, L., Zhang, F., Lü, D., Li, N., Zheng, L., Xu, Y., Li, Z., Sun, S., Long, M. Mechanical remodeling of normally sized mammalian cells under a gravity vector. © FASEB.

  19. Project of Ariane 5 LV family advancement by use of reusable fly-back boosters (named “Bargouzine”)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sumin, Yu.; Bonnal, Ch.; Kostromin, S.; Panichkin, N.

    2007-12-01

    The paper concerns possible concept variants of a partially reusable Heavy-Lift Launch Vehicle derived from the advanced basic launcher (Ariane-2010) by means of substitution of the EAP Solid Rocket Boosters for a Reusable Starting Stage consisting two Liquid-propellant Reusable Fly-Back Boosters called "Bargouzin". This paper describes the status of the presently studied RFBB concepts during its three phases. The first project phase was dedicated to feasibility expertise of liquid-rocket reusable fly-back boosters ("Baikal" type) utilization for heavy-lift space launch vehicle. The design features and main conclusions are presented. The second phase has been performed with the purpose of selection of preferable concept among the alternative ones for the future Ariane LV modernization by using RFBB instead of EAP Boosters. The main requirements, logic of work, possible configuration and conclusion are presented. Initial aerodynamic, ballistic, thermoloading, dynamic loading, trade-off and comparison analysis have been performed on these concepts. The third phase consists in performing a more detailed expertise of the chosen LV concept. This part summarizes some of the more detailed results related to flight performance, system mass, thermoprotection system, aspects of technologies, ground complex modification, comparison analyses and conclusion.

  20. Immune remodeling: lessons from repertoire alterations during chronological aging and in immune-mediated disease.

    PubMed

    Vallejo, Abbe N

    2007-03-01

    Immunological studies of aging and of patients with chronic immune-mediated diseases document overlap of immune phenotypes. Here, the term "immune remodeling" refers to these phenotypes that are indicative of biological processes of deterioration and repair. This concept is explored through lessons from studies about the changes in the T-cell repertoire and the functional diversity of otherwise oligoclonal, senescent T cells. Immune remodeling suggests a gradual process that occurs throughout life. However, similar but more drastic remodeling occurs disproportionately among young patients with chronic disease. In this article, I propose that immune remodeling is a beneficial adaptation of aging to promote healthy survival beyond reproductive performance, but acute remodeling poses risk of premature exhaustion of the immune repertoire and, thus, is detrimental in young individuals.

  1. Disruption of TGF-β signaling in smooth muscle cell prevents flow-induced vascular remodeling

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gao, Fu; Chambon, Pierre; Tellides, George

    Highlights: • TGF-β signaling in SMC contributes to the flow-induced vascular remodeling. • Disruption of TGF-β signaling in SMC can prevent this process. • Targeting SM-specific Tgfbr2 could be a novel therapeutic strategy for vascular remodeling. - Abstract: Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling has been prominently implicated in the pathogenesis of vascular remodeling, especially the initiation and progression of flow-induced vascular remodeling. Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) are the principal resident cells in arterial wall and are critical for arterial remodeling. However, the role of TGF-β signaling in SMC for flow-induced vascular remodeling remains unknown. Therefore, the goal of our studymore » was to determine the effect of TGF-β pathway in SMC for vascular remodeling, by using a genetical smooth muscle-specific (SM-specific) TGF-β type II receptor (Tgfbr2) deletion mice model. Mice deficient in the expression of Tgfbr2 (MyhCre.Tgfbr2{sup f/f}) and their corresponding wild-type background mice (MyhCre.Tgfbr2{sup WT/WT}) underwent partial ligation of left common carotid artery for 1, 2, or 4 weeks. Then the carotid arteries were harvested and indicated that the disruption of Tgfbr2 in SMC provided prominent inhibition of vascular remodeling. And the thickening of carotid media, proliferation of SMC, infiltration of macrophage, and expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) were all significantly attenuated in Tgfbr2 disruption mice. Our study demonstrated, for the first time, that the TGF-β signaling in SMC plays an essential role in flow-induced vascular remodeling and disruption can prevent this process.« less

  2. Effect of Right Ventricular versus Biventricular Pacing on Electrical Remodeling in the Normal Heart

    PubMed Central

    Saba, Samir; Mehdi, Haider; Mathier, Michael A.; Islam, M. Zahadul; Salama, Guy; London, Barry

    2010-01-01

    Background Biventricular (BIV) pacing can improve cardiac function in heart failure by altering the mechanical and electrical substrates. We investigated the effect of BIV versus right ventricular (RV) pacing on the normal heart. Methods and Results Male New Zealand White rabbits (n=33) were divided into 3 groups: sham-operated (control), RV pacing, and BIV pacing groups. Four weeks after surgery, the native QT (p=0.004) interval was significantly shorter in the BIV group compared to the RV or sham-operated groups. Also, compared to rabbits in the RV group, rabbits in the BIV group had shorter RV ventricular effective refractory period (VERP) at all cycle lengths, and shorter LV paced QT interval during the drive train of stimuli and close to refractoriness (p<0.001 for all comparisons). Protein expression of the KVLQT1 was significantly increased in the BIV group compared to the RV and control groups, while protein expression of SCN5A and connexin43 was significantly decreased in the RV compared to the other study groups. Erg protein expression was significantly increased in both pacing groups compared to the controls. Conclusions In this rabbit model, we demonstrate a direct effect of BIV but not RV pacing on shortening the native QT interval as well as the paced QT interval during burst pacing and close to the VERP. These findings underscore the fact that the effect of BIV pacing is partially mediated through direct electrical remodeling and may have implications as to the effect of BIV pacing on arrhythmia incidence and burden. PMID:20042767

  3. Association of apical rocking with long-term major adverse cardiac events in patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy.

    PubMed

    Ghani, Abdul; Delnoy, Peter Paul H M; Ottervanger, Jan Paul; Ramdat Misier, Anand R; Smit, Jaap Jan J; Adiyaman, Ahmet; Elvan, Arif

    2016-02-01

    Correctly identifying patients who will benefit from cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is still challenging. 'Apical rocking' is observed in asynchronously contracting ventricles and is associated with echocardiographic response to CRT. The association of apical rocking and long-term clinical outcome is however unknown at present. We assessed the predictive value of left ventricular (LV) apical rocking on a long-term clinical outcome in patients treated with CRT. Consecutive heart failure patients treated with primary indication for CRT-D between 2005 and 2009 were included in a prospective registry. Echocardiography was performed prior to CRT to assess apical rocking, defined as motion of the LV apical myocardium perpendicular to the LV long axis. Major adverse cardiac event (MACE) was defined as combined end point of cardiac death and/or heart failure hospitalization and/or appropriate therapy (ATP and/or ICD shocks). All echocardiograms were assessed by independent cardiologists, blinded for clinical data. Multivariable analyses were performed to adjust for potential confounders. Two hundred and ninety-five patients with echocardiography prior to implantation were included in the final analyses. Apical rocking was present in 45% of the study patients. Apical rocking was significantly more common in younger patients, females, patients with sinus rhythm, non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy, and in patients with LBBB and wider QRS duration. During a mean clinical follow-up of 5.2 ± 1.6 years, 92 (31%) patients reached the end point of the study (MACE). Patients with MACE had shorter QRS duration, had more ischaemic cardiomyopathy, and were more often on Amiodarone. In univariate analyses, MACE was associated with shorter QRS duration, ischaemic aetiology, and the absence of apical rocking. After multivariable analyses, apical rocking was associated with less MACE (hazards ratio, HR 0.44, 95% confidence interval, CI 0.25-0.77). Apical rocking is an independent

  4. Evidence for immune cell involvement in decidual spiral arteriole remodeling in early human pregnancy.

    PubMed

    Smith, Samantha D; Dunk, Caroline E; Aplin, John D; Harris, Lynda K; Jones, Rebecca L

    2009-05-01

    Decidual artery remodeling is essential for a healthy pregnancy. This process involves loss of vascular smooth muscle cells and endothelium, which are replaced by endovascular trophoblasts (vEVTs) embedded in fibrinoid. Remodeling is impaired during pre-eclampsia, a disease of pregnancy that results in maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. Early vascular changes occur in the absence of vEVTs, suggesting that another cell type is involved; evidence from animal models indicates that decidual leukocytes play a role. We hypothesized that leukocytes participate in remodeling through the triggering of apoptosis or extracellular matrix degradation. Decidua basalis samples (8 to 12 weeks gestation) were examined by immunohistochemistry to elucidate associations between leukocytes, vEVTs, and key remodeling events. Trophoblast-independent and -dependent phases of remodeling were identified. Based on a combination of morphological attributes, vessel profiles were classified into a putative temporal series of four stages. In early stages of remodeling, vascular smooth muscle cells showed dramatic disruption and disorganization before vEVT presence. Leukocytes (identified as uterine natural killer cells and macrophages) were apparent infiltrating vascular smooth muscle cells layers and were matrix metalloproteinase-7 and -9 immunopositive. A proportion of vascular smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells were terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling positive, suggesting remodeling involves apoptosis. We thus confirm that vascular remodeling occurs in distinct trophoblast-independent and -dependent stages and provide the first evidence of decidual leukocyte involvement in trophoblast-independent stages.

  5. Regulation of bone remodeling by vitamin K2.

    PubMed

    Myneni, V D; Mezey, E

    2017-11-01

    All living tissues require essential nutrients such as amino acids, fatty acids, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, and water. The skeleton requires nutrients for development, maintaining bone mass and density. If the skeletal nutritional requirements are not met, the consequences can be quite severe. In recent years, there has been growing interest in promotion of bone health and inhibition of vascular calcification by vitamin K2. This vitamin regulates bone remodeling, an important process necessary to maintain adult bone. Bone remodeling involves removal of old or damaged bone by osteoclasts and its replacement by new bone formed by osteoblasts. The remodeling process is tightly regulated, when the balance between bone resorption and bone formation shifts to a net bone loss results in the development of osteoporosis in both men and women. In this review, we focus on our current understanding of the effects of vitamin K2 on bone cells and its role in prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Published 2016. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

  6. Re-Modelling as De-Professionalisation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Thompson, Meryl

    2006-01-01

    The article sets out the consequences of the British Government's remodelling agenda and its emphasis on less demarcation, for the professional status of teachers in England. It describes how the National Agreement on Raising Standards and Tackling Workload, reached between five of the six trade unions for teachers and headteachers paves the way…

  7. Seasonal and post-trauma remodeling in cone-dominant ground squirrel retina

    PubMed Central

    Merriman, Dana K.; Sajdak, Benjamin S.; Li, Wei; Jones, Bryan W.

    2016-01-01

    With a photoreceptor mosaic containing ~85% cones, the ground squirrel is one of the richest known mammalian sources of these important retinal cells. It also has a visual ecology much like the human’s. While the ground squirrel retina is understandably prominent in the cone biochemistry, physiology, and circuitry literature, far less is known about the remodeling potential of its retinal pigment epithelium, neurons, macroglia, or microglia. This review aims to summarize the data from ground squirrel retina to this point in time, and to relate them to data from other brain areas where appropriate. We begin with a survey of the ground squirrel visual system, making comparisons with traditional rodent models and with human. Because this animal’s status as a hibernator often goes unnoticed in the vision literature, we then present a brief primer on hibernation biology. Next we review what is known about ground squirrel retinal remodeling concurrent with deep torpor and with rapid recovery upon re-warming. Notable here is rapidly-reversible, temperature-dependent structural plasticity of cone ribbon synapses, as well as pre- and post-synaptic plasticity throughout diverse brain regions. It is not yet clear if retinal cell types other than cones engage in torpor-associated synaptic remodeling. We end with the small but intriguing literature on the ground squirrel retina’s remodeling responses to insult by retinal detachment. Notable for widespread loss of (cone) photoreceptors, there is surprisingly little remodeling of the RPE or Müller cells. Microglial activation appears minimal, and remodeling of surviving second- and third-order neurons seems absent, but both require further study. In contrast, traumatic brain injury in the ground squirrel elicits typical macroglial and microglial responses. Overall, the data to date strongly suggest a heretofore unrecognized, natural checkpoint between retinal deafferentiation and RPE and Müller cell remodeling events. As

  8. Toxoplasma gondii, Dirofilaria immitis, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infections in stray and pet cats (Felis catus) in northwest China: co-infections and risk factors.

    PubMed

    Cong, Wei; Meng, Qing-Feng; Blaga, Radu; Villena, Isabelle; Zhu, Xing-Quan; Qian, Ai-Dong

    2016-01-01

    This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii, Dirofilaria immitis, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infections among stray and pet cats in Lanzhou, northwest China, and to identify the influence of age, gender, and regions on seropositivity. T. gondii antibodies were examined in cat sera by the modified agglutination test (MAT). The circulating antigens of D. immitis and FeLV and specific antibodies to FIV were examined using kits commercially available. The overall prevalence of T. gondii, FIV, FeLV, and D. immitis was 19.34, 9.12, 11.33, and 3.04 %, respectively. For the genetic characterization of T. gondii genotypes in cats, genomic DNA was extracted from the seropositive cats and the T. gondii B1 gene was amplified using a semi-nested PCR. DNA samples giving positive B1 amplification were then genotyped using multilocus PCR-RFLP. Two T. gondii genotypes (ToxoDB#9 and ToxoDB#1) were identified. Results of the multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that older cats are more likely to be seropositive than juveniles for T. gondii, FIV, FeLV, and D. immitis. This is the first report of T. gondii genotypes in cats in northwest China. Moreover, the present study is the first study of retrovirus and D. immitis seroprevalence in cats in China. The results revealed that T. gondii, FIV, and FeLV infections are common in stray and pet cats in northwest China.

  9. Remodeling of legacy systems in health care using UML.

    PubMed

    Garde, Sebastian; Knaup, Petra; Herold, Ralf

    2002-01-01

    Research projects in the field of Medical Informatics often involve the development of application systems. Usually they are developed over a longer period of time, so that at a certain point of time a systematically planned reimplementation is necessary. The first step of reimplementation should be a systematic and comprehensive remodeling. When using UML for this task a systematic approach for remodeling activities is missing. Therefore, we developed a method for remodeling of legacy systems (Qumquad) and applied it to DOSPO, a documentation and therapy planning system for pediatric oncology. Qumquad helps to systematically carry out three steps: the modeling of the current actual state of the application system, the systematic identification of weak points and the development of a target concept for reimplementation considering the identified weak points. Results show that this approach is valuable and feasible and could be applied to various application systems in health care.

  10. Energy Efficiency Measures to Incorporate into Remodeling Projects

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Liaukus, C.

    2014-12-01

    Energy improvements in a home are often approached as one concerted effort, beginning with a simple walk-through assessment or more in-depth energy audit and followed by the installation of recommended energy measures. While this approach allows for systems thinking to guide the efforts, comprehensive energy improvements of this nature are undertaken by a relatively small number of the households in our nation compared to more piecemeal remodeling efforts. Even when programs like the Weatherization Assistance Program and Home Performance with ENERGY STAR are considered, homes that have had a comprehensive energy makeover still represent a small fraction of the 111.1more » million households. In this report, the U.S Department of Energy Building America Retrofit Alliance research team looks at the improvement of a home's energy performance in an opportunistic way: it examines what can be done to incorporate energy efficiency measures into general remodeling work and home repair projects. This allows for the possibility for people who would not normally pursue energy efficiency but will remodel their kitchen or re-side their home to improve their home's performance at the same time. There are challenges to this approach, not the least of which being that the work will take place over time in potentially many separate projects. The opportunity to improve a home's energy efficiency at one time expands or contracts with the scope of the remodel. As such, guidance on how to do each piece thoughtfully and with consideration for potential future projects, is critical.« less

  11. Odanacatib, effects of 16-month treatment and discontinuation of therapy on bone mass, turnover and strength in the ovariectomized rabbit model of osteopenia.

    PubMed

    Duong, Le T; Crawford, Randy; Scott, Kevin; Winkelmann, Christopher T; Wu, Gouxin; Szczerba, Pete; Gentile, Michael A

    2016-12-01

    Odanacatib (ODN) a selective and reversible cathepsin K inhibitor, inhibits bone resorption, increases bone mass and reduces fracture risk in women with osteoporosis. A 16-month (~7-remodeling cycles) study was carried out in treatment mode to assess the effects of ODN versus ALN on bone mass, remodeling status and biomechanical properties of lumbar vertebrae (LV) and femur in ovariectomized (OVX) rabbits. This study also evaluated the impact of discontinuing ODN on these parameters. Rabbits at 7.5months post-OVX were dosed for 16-months with ODN (7.5μM·h 0-24 , in food) or ALN (0.2mg/kg/wk, s.c.) and compared to vehicle-treated OVX- (OVX+Veh) or Sham-operated animals. After 8months, treatment was discontinued in half of the ODN group. ODN treatment increased in vivo LV aBMD and trabecular (Tb) vBMD until reaching plateau at month 12 by 16% and 23% vs. baseline, respectively, comparable levels to that in Sham and significantly above OVX+Veh. LV BMD was also higher in ALN that plateaued around month 8 to levels below that in ODN or Sham. ODN treatment resulted in higher BMD, structure and improved biomechanical strength of LV and central femur (CF) to levels similar to Sham. ALN generally showed less robust efficacy compared to ODN. Neither ODN nor ALN influenced material properties at these bone sites following ODN or ALN treatment for 7 remodeling cycles in rabbits. ODN and ALN persistently reduced the bone resorption marker urinary helical peptide over study duration. While ALN reduced the bone formation marker BSAP, ODN treatment did not affect this marker. ODN also preserved histomorphometry-based bone formation indices in LV trabecular, CF endocortical and intracortical surfaces, at the levels of OVX+Veh. Discontinuation of ODN returned bone mass, structure and strength parameters to the comparable respective levels in OVX+Veh. Together, these data demonstrate efficacy and bone safety profile of ODN and suggests the potential long-term benefits of this agent

  12. A-kinase anchoring proteins that regulate cardiac remodeling.

    PubMed

    Carnegie, Graeme K; Burmeister, Brian T

    2011-11-01

    In response to injury or stress, the adult heart undergoes maladaptive changes, collectively defined as pathological cardiac remodeling. Here, we focus on the role of A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) in 3 main areas associated with cardiac remodeling and the progression of heart failure: excitation-contraction coupling, sarcomeric regulation, and induction of pathological hypertrophy. AKAPs are a diverse family of scaffold proteins that form multiprotein complexes, integrating cAMP signaling with protein kinases, phosphatases, and other effector proteins. Many AKAPs have been characterized in the heart, where they play a critical role in modulating cardiac function.

  13. A-Kinase Anchoring Proteins That Regulate Cardiac Remodeling

    PubMed Central

    Carnegie, Graeme K.; Burmeister, Brian T.

    2012-01-01

    In response to injury or stress, the adult heart undergoes maladaptive changes, collectively defined as pathological cardiac remodeling. Here, we focus on the role of A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) in 3 main areas associated with cardiac remodeling and the progression of heart failure: excitation–contraction coupling, sarcomeric regulation, and induction of pathological hypertrophy. AKAPs are a diverse family of scaffold proteins that form multi-protein complexes, integrating cAMP signaling with protein kinases, phosphatases, and other effector proteins. Many AKAPs have been characterized in the heart, where they play a critical role in modulating cardiac function. PMID:22075671

  14. [Impacts of physical exercise on remodeling and hypertrophy of skeletal muscle.

    PubMed

    Sakashita, Yoshihiro; Uchida, Takayuki; Nikawa, Takeshi

    The skeletal muscle has high sensitivity for the mechanical stress. Because it is enlarged by training, whereas it is easily withered by lack of exercise. When we exercise, skeletal muscle cells per se sense mechanical loading, and muscular remodeling and the muscular hypertrophy occur. It has been revealed that the intracellular signaling through PGC-1α participates in the remodeling of the skeletal muscle, while PGC-1α4, an isoform of PGC-1α, and the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex play important roles in muscular hypertrophy. This review describes the impact of physical exercise gives on the remodeling and hypertrophy of muscle through the signaling.

  15. Lymph node biophysical remodeling is associated with melanoma lymphatic drainage

    PubMed Central

    Rohner, Nathan Andrew; McClain, Jacob; Tuell, Sara Lydia; Warner, Alex; Smith, Blair; Yun, Youngho; Mohan, Abhinav; Sushnitha, Manuela; Thomas, Susan Napier

    2015-01-01

    Tissue remodeling is a characteristic of many solid tumor malignancies including melanoma. By virtue of tumor lymphatic transport, remodeling pathways active within the local tumor microenvironment have the potential to be operational within lymph nodes (LNs) draining the tumor interstitium. Here, we show that lymphatic drainage from murine B16 melanomas in syngeneic, immune-competent C57Bl/6 mice is associated with LN enlargement as well as nonuniform increases in bulk tissue elasticity and viscoelasticity, as measured by the response of whole LNs to compression. These remodeling responses, which quickly manifest in tumor-draining lymph nodes (TDLNs) after tumor inoculation and before apparent metastasis, were accompanied by changes in matrix composition, including up to 3-fold increases in the abundance of soluble collagen and hyaluronic acid. Intranodal pressures were also significantly increased in TDLNs (+1 cmH2O) relative to both non-tumor-draining LNs (−1 cmH2O) and LNs from naive animals (−1 to 2 cmH2O). These data suggest that the reorganization of matrix structure, composition, and fluid microenvironment within LNs associated with tumor lymphatic drainage parallels remodeling seen in primary malignancies and has the potential to regulate the adhesion, proliferation, and signaling function of LN-resident cells involved in directing melanoma disease progression.—Rohner, N. A., McClain, J., Tuell, S. L., Warner, A., Smith, B., Yun, Y., Mohan, A., Sushnitha, M., Thomas, S. N. Lymph node biophysical remodeling is associated with melanoma lymphatic drainage. PMID:26178165

  16. Aldosterone synthase inhibition improves cardiovascular function and structure in rats with heart failure: a comparison with spironolactone.

    PubMed

    Mulder, Paul; Mellin, Virginie; Favre, Julie; Vercauteren, Magali; Remy-Jouet, Isabelle; Monteil, Christelle; Richard, Vincent; Renet, Sylvanie; Henry, Jean Paul; Jeng, Arco Y; Webb, Randy L; Thuillez, Christian

    2008-09-01

    Inhibition of aldosterone synthase, the key enzyme in aldosterone formation, could be an alternative strategy for mineralocorticoid-receptor antagonists in congestive heart failure (CHF), but its effect in CHF is unknown. We compared, in rats with CHF, the effects of a 7 day and a 12 week treatment with the aldosterone synthase inhibitor FAD286 (4 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) with those induced by spironolactone (80 mg kg(-1) day(-1)). FAD286/spironolactone increased cardiac output without modifying arterial pressure. Long-term FAD286 and spironolactone reduced left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic pressure, LV relaxation constant, and LV dilatation, and these effects were more marked with FAD286, whereas both drugs reduced LV hypertrophy and collagen accumulation to the same extent. Long-term FAD286/spironolactone prevented CHF-related enhancement in LV ACE and reduction in LV ACE-2, but only FAD286 prevented the reduction in LV AT(2) receptors. FAD286, but not long-term spironolactone, reduced the CHF-related enhancements in LV reactive oxygen species, reduced-oxidized glutathione ratio, and aortic nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase activity. FAD286 normalized the CHF-induced impairment of endothelium-dependent vasodilatation. In experimental CHF, FAD286 and spironolactone improve LV haemodynamics, remodelling, and function, but only FAD286 persistently normalizes LV 'redox status'. These results suggest that aldosterone synthase inhibition is a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of CHF.

  17. Mapping protein-DNA and protein-protein interactions of ATP-dependent chromatin remodelers.

    PubMed

    Hota, Swetansu K; Dechassa, Mekonnen Lemma; Prasad, Punit; Bartholomew, Blaine

    2012-01-01

    Chromatin plays a key regulatory role in several DNA-dependent processes as it regulates DNA access to different protein factors. Several multisubunit protein complexes interact, modify, or mobilize nucleosomes: the basic unit of chromatin, from its original location in an ATP-dependent manner to facilitate processes, such as transcription, replication, repair, and recombination. Knowledge of the interactions of chromatin remodelers with nucleosomes is a crucial requirement to understand the mechanism of chromatin remodeling. Here, we describe several methods to analyze the interactions of multisubunit chromatin-remodeling enzymes with nucleosomes.

  18. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) promoter targeting through a novel chromatin remodeling complex.

    PubMed

    Kato, Shigeaki; Fujiki, Ryoji; Kitagawa, Hirochika

    2004-05-01

    We have purified nuclear complexes for Vitamin D receptor (VDR), and identified one of them as a novel ATP-dependent chromatine remodeling containing Williams syndrome transcription factor (WSTF), that is supposed to be responsible for Williams syndrome. This complex (WSTF including nucleosome assembly complex (WINAC)) exhibited an ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling activity in vitro. Transient expression assays revealed that WINAC potentiates ligand-induced function of VDR in gene activation and repression. Thus, this study describes a molecular basis of the VDR function on chromosomal DNA through chromatine remodeling.

  19. Remodelling of a Lycee in Grenoble. Programme on Educational Building 14.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Roche, G.

    The 1973 remodeling of the Emmanuel Mounier Lycee in Grenoble, France, shows how a secondary educational facility can respond to expanding school offerings. As background to the lycee's expansion, the author, who was principal of the school during its remodeling, provides general information on the French educational system and on the consequent…

  20. Role of Soluble ST2 Levels and Beta-Blockers Dosage on Cardiovascular Events of Patients with Unselected ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

    PubMed Central

    Huang, Wei-Ping; Zheng, Xuan; He, Lei; Su, Xi; Liu, Cheng-Wei; Wu, Ming-Xiang

    2018-01-01

    Background: Serum soluble ST2 (sST2) levels are elevated early after acute myocardial infarction and are related to adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling and cardiovascular outcomes in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Beta-blockers (BB) have been shown to improve LV remodeling and survival. However, the relationship between sST2, final therapeutic BB dose, and cardiovascular outcomes in STEMI patients remains unknown. Methods: A total of 186 STEMI patients were enrolled at the Wuhan Asia Heart Hospital between January 2015 and June 2015. All patients received standard treatment and were followed up for 1 year. Serum sST2 was measured at baseline. Patients were divided into four groups according to their baseline sST2 values (high >56 ng/ml vs. low ≤56 ng/ml) and final therapeutic BB dose (high ≥47.5 mg/d vs. low <47.5 mg/d). Cox regression analyses were performed to determine whether sST2 and BB were independent risk factors for cardiovascular events in STEMI. Results: Baseline sST2 levels were positively correlated with heart rate (r = 0.327, P = 0.002), Killip class (r = 0.408, P = 0.000), lg N-terminal prohormone B-type natriuretic peptide (r = 0.467, P = 0.000), lg troponin I (r = 0.331, P = 0.000), and lg C-reactive protein (r = 0.307, P = 0.000) and negatively correlated to systolic blood pressure (r = −0.243, P = 0.009) and LV ejection fraction (r = −0.402, P = 0.000). Patients with higher baseline sST2 concentrations who were not titrated to high-dose BB therapy (P < 0.0001) had worse outcomes. Baseline high sST2 (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.653; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.201–8.929; P = 0.041) and final low BB dosage (HR: 1.904; 95% CI, 1.084–3.053; P = 0.035) were independent predictors of cardiovascular events in STEMI. Conclusions: High baseline sST2 levels and final low BB dosage predicted cardiovascular events in STEMI. Hence, sST2 may be a useful biomarker in cardiac pathophysiology. PMID:29786039

  1. Cardiovascular remodeling induced by passive smoking.

    PubMed

    Minicucci, Marcos F; Azevedo, Paula S; Paiva, Sergio A R; Zornoff, Leonardo A M

    2009-12-01

    Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most common cause of death in many developed countries. The major risk factors for CHD are smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, and lack of physical activity. Importantly, passive smoke also increases the risk for CHD. The mechanisms involved in the effects of passive smoke in CHD are complex and include endothelial dysfunction, lipoprotein modification, increased inflammation and platelet activation. Recently, several studies have shown that exposure to tobacco smoke can result in cardiac remodeling and compromised cardiac function. Potential mechanisms for these alterations are neurohumoral activation, oxidative stress, and MAPK activation. Although the vascular effects of cigarette smoke exposure are well known, the effects of tobacco smoking on the heart have received less attention. Therefore, this review will focus on the recent findings as to the effects of passive smoking in acute and chronic phases of vascular and cardiac remodeling.

  2. Drosophila transcription factor Tramtrack69 binds MEP1 to recruit the chromatin remodeler NuRD.

    PubMed

    Reddy, B Ashok; Bajpe, Prashanth Kumar; Bassett, Andrew; Moshkin, Yuri M; Kozhevnikova, Elena; Bezstarosti, Karel; Demmers, Jeroen A A; Travers, Andrew A; Verrijzer, C Peter

    2010-11-01

    ATP-dependent chromatin-remodeling complexes (remodelers) are essential regulators of chromatin structure and gene transcription. How remodelers can act in a gene-selective manner has remained enigmatic. A yeast two-hybrid screen for proteins binding the Drosophila transcription factor Tramtrack69 (TTK69) identified MEP1. Proteomic characterization revealed that MEP1 is a tightly associated subunit of the NuRD remodeler, harboring the Mi2 enzymatic core ATPase. In addition, we identified the fly homolog of human Deleted in oral cancer 1 (DOC1), also known as CDK2-associated protein 1 (CDK2AP1), as a bona fide NuRD subunit. Biochemical and genetic assays supported the functional association between MEP1, Mi2, and TTK69. Genomewide expression analysis established that TTK69, MEP1, and Mi2 cooperate closely to control transcription. The TTK69 transcriptome profile correlates poorly with remodelers other than NuRD, emphasizing the selectivity of remodeler action. On the genes examined, TTK69 is able to bind chromatin in the absence of NuRD, but targeting of NuRD is dependent on TTK69. Thus, there appears to be a hierarchical relationship in which transcription factor binding precedes remodeler recruitment.

  3. Chymase-producing cells of the innate immune system are required for decidual vascular remodeling and fetal growth

    PubMed Central

    Meyer, Nicole; Woidacki, Katja; Knöfler, Martin; Meinhardt, Gudrun; Nowak, Désirée; Velicky, Philipp; Pollheimer, Jürgen; Zenclussen, Ana C.

    2017-01-01

    Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is caused by insufficient remodeling of spiral arteries (SAs). The mechanism underlying the relevance of natural killer cells (NKs) and mast cells (MCs) for SA remodeling and its effects on pregnancy outcome are not well understood. We show that NK depletion arrested SA remodeling without affecting pregnancy. MC depletion resulted in abnormally remodeled SAs and IUGR. Combined absence of NKs and MCs substantially affected SA remodeling and impaired fetal growth. We found that α-chymase mast cell protease (Mcpt) 5 mediates apoptosis of uterine smooth muscle cells, a key feature of SA remodeling. Additionally, we report a previously unknown source for Mcpt5: uterine (u) NKs. Mice with selective deletion of Mcpt5+ cells had un-remodeled SAs and growth-restricted progeny. The human α-chymase CMA1, phylogenetic homolog of Mcpt5, stimulated the ex vivo migration of human trophoblasts, a pre-requisite for SA remodeling. Our results show that chymases secreted by uMCs and uNKs are pivotal to the vascular changes required to support pregnancy. Understanding the mechanisms underlying pregnancy-induced vascular changes is essential for developing therapeutic options against pregnancy complications associated with poor vascular remodeling. PMID:28327604

  4. Left ventricular structural and functional characteristics in Cushing's syndrome.

    PubMed

    Muiesan, Maria Lorenza; Lupia, Mario; Salvetti, Massimo; Grigoletto, Consuelo; Sonino, Nicoletta; Boscaro, Marco; Rosei, Enrico Agabiti; Mantero, Franco; Fallo, Francesco

    2003-06-18

    This study was designed to evaluate left ventricular (LV) anatomy and function in patients with Cushing's syndrome. A high prevalence of LV hypertrophy and concentric remodeling has been reported in Cushing's syndrome, although no data have been reported on LV systolic and diastolic function. Forty-two consecutive patients with Cushing's syndrome and 42 control subjects, matched for age, gender, and blood pressure, were studied. Left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and relative wall thickness (RWT) were measured by echocardiography, endocardial and midwall fractional shortening (FS) were assessed, and diastolic filling was measured by Doppler transmitral flow. The RWT was significantly greater in Cushing patients than in controls. Left ventricular hypertrophy and concentric remodeling were observed in 10 and 26 patients with Cushing's syndrome, respectively. In Cushing patients, midwall FS was significantly reduced compared with controls (16.2 +/- 3% vs. 21 +/- 4.5%, p = 0.01). The ratio of transmitral E and A flow velocities was reduced and E deceleration time was prolonged in Cushing patients compared with controls (p = 0.03 and p < 0.001, respectively). In patients with Cushing's syndrome, cardiac structural changes are associated with reduced midwall systolic performance and with diastolic dysfunction that may contribute to the high risk of cardiovascular events observed in these patients.

  5. Cardiac Rotational Mechanics As a Predictor of Myocardial Recovery in Heart Failure Patients Undergoing Chronic Mechanical Circulatory Support: A Pilot Study.

    PubMed

    Bonios, Michael J; Koliopoulou, Antigone; Wever-Pinzon, Omar; Taleb, Iosif; Stehlik, Josef; Xu, Weining; Wever-Pinzon, James; Catino, Anna; Kfoury, Abdallah G; Horne, Benjamin D; Nativi-Nicolau, Jose; Adamopoulos, Stamatis N; Fang, James C; Selzman, Craig H; Bax, Jeroen J; Drakos, Stavros G

    2018-04-01

    Impaired qualitative and quantitative left ventricular (LV) rotational mechanics predict cardiac remodeling progression and prognosis after myocardial infarction. We investigated whether cardiac rotational mechanics can predict cardiac recovery in chronic advanced cardiomyopathy patients. Sixty-three patients with advanced and chronic dilated cardiomyopathy undergoing implantation of LV assist device (LVAD) were prospectively investigated using speckle tracking echocardiography. Acute heart failure patients were prospectively excluded. We evaluated LV rotational mechanics (apical and basal LV twist, LV torsion) and deformational mechanics (circumferential and longitudinal strain) before LVAD implantation. Cardiac recovery post-LVAD implantation was defined as (1) final resulting LV ejection fraction ≥40%, (2) relative LV ejection fraction increase ≥50%, (iii) relative LV end-systolic volume decrease ≥50% (all 3 required). Twelve patients fulfilled the criteria for cardiac recovery (Rec Group). The Rec Group had significantly less impaired pre-LVAD peak LV torsion compared with the Non-Rec Group. Notably, both groups had similarly reduced pre-LVAD LV ejection fraction. By receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, pre-LVAD peak LV torsion of 0.35 degrees/cm had a 92% sensitivity and a 73% specificity in predicting cardiac recovery. Peak LV torsion before LVAD implantation was found to be an independent predictor of cardiac recovery after LVAD implantation (odds ratio, 0.65 per 0.1 degrees/cm [0.49-0.87]; P =0.014). LV rotational mechanics seem to be useful in selecting patients prone to cardiac recovery after mechanical unloading induced by LVADs. Future studies should investigate the utility of these markers in predicting durable cardiac recovery after the explantation of the cardiac assist device. © 2018 American Heart Association, Inc.

  6. [Experimental therapy of cardiac remodeling with quercetin-containing drugs].

    PubMed

    Kuzmenko, M A; Pavlyuchenko, V B; Tumanovskaya, L V; Dosenko, V E; Moybenko, A A

    2013-01-01

    It was shown that continuous beta-adrenergic hyperstimulation resulted in cardiac function disturbances and fibrosis of cardiac tissue. Treatment with quercetin-containing drugs, particularly, water-soluble corvitin and tableted quertin exerted favourable effect on cardiac hemodynamics, normalized systolic and diastolic function in cardiac remodeling, induced by sustained beta-adrenergic stimulation. It was estimated that conducted experimental therapy limited cardiac fibrosis area almost three-fold, that could be associated with first and foremost improved cardiac distensibility, characteristics of diastolic and also pump function in cardiac remodeling.

  7. A Matrix Metalloproteinase Mediates Airway Remodeling in Drosophila

    PubMed Central

    Glasheen, Bernadette M.; Robbins, Renée M.; Piette, Caitlin; Beitel, Greg J.; Page-McCaw, Andrea

    2010-01-01

    Organ size typically increases dramatically during juvenile growth. This growth presents a fundamental tension, as organs need resiliency to resist stresses while still maintaining plasticity to accommodate growth. Extracellular matrix (ECM) is central to providing resiliency, but how ECM is remodeled to accommodate growth is poorly understood. We investigated remodeling of Drosophila respiratory tubes (tracheae) that elongate continually during larval growth, despite being lined with a rigid cuticular ECM. Cuticle is initially deposited with a characteristic pattern of repeating ridges and valleys known as taenidia. We find that for tubes to elongate, the extracellular protease Mmp1 is required for expansion of ECM between the taenidial ridges during each inter-molt period. Mmp1 protein localizes in periodically-spaced puncta that are in register with the taenidial spacing. Mmp1 also degrades old cuticle at molts, promotes apical membrane expansion in larval tracheae, and promotes tube elongation in embryonic tracheae. Whereas work in other developmental systems has demonstrated that MMPs are required for axial elongation occurring in localized growth zones, this study demonstrates that MMPs can also mediate interstitial matrix remodeling during growth of an organ system. PMID:20513443

  8. REMODELING SENSORY CORTICAL MAPS IMPLANTS SPECIFIC BEHAVIORAL MEMORY

    PubMed Central

    Bieszczad, Kasia M.; Miasnikov, Alexandre A.; Weinberger, Norman M.

    2013-01-01

    Neural mechanisms underlying the capacity of memory to be rich with sensory detail are largely unknown. A candidate mechanism is learning-induced plasticity that remodels adult sensory cortex. Here, expansion in the primary auditory cortical (A1) tonotopic map of rats was induced by pairing a 3.66 kHz tone with activation of the nucleus basalis, mimicking the effects of natural associative learning. Remodeling of A1 produced de novo specific behavioral memory, but neither memory nor plasticity were consistently at the frequency of the paired tone, which typically decreased in A1 representation. Rather, there was a specific match between individual subjects’ area of expansion and the tone that was strongest in each animal’s memory, as determined by post-training frequency generalization gradients. These findings provide the first demonstration of a match between the artificial induction of specific neural representational plasticity and artificial induction of behavioral memory. As such, together with prior and present findings for detection, correlation and mimicry of plasticity with the acquisition of memory, they satisfy a key criterion for neural substrates of memory. This demonstrates that directly remodeling sensory cortical maps is sufficient for the specificity of memory formation. PMID:23639876

  9. Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract alleviates ouabain-induced vascular remodeling through regulation of endothelial function.

    PubMed

    Liu, Xiangju; Qiu, Jie; Zhao, Shaohua; You, Beian; Ji, Xiang; Wang, Yan; Cui, Xiaopei; Wang, Qian; Gao, Haiqing

    2012-11-01

    Recent studies indicate that chronic ouabain treatment leads to hypertension and hypertensive vascular remodeling. Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) has been reported to be effective in treating arteriosclerosis, while little is known about its effect on systolic blood pressure and vascular remodeling. In this study, the effects of GSPE on systolic blood pressure and vascular remodeling were analyzed by treating ouabain-induced hypertensive rats with GSPE (250 mg/kg·d). The expression of nitric oxide (NO) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) in thoracic aorta was examined by ELISA; the mRNA and protein levels of TGF-β1 were detected using real-time PCR and western blotting, respectively. The results showed that the systolic blood pressure was significantly decreased following treatment with GSPE, with blocked vascular remodeling. The ET-1 content was reduced while NO production was increased in the GSPE group, which showed improved vascular endothelial function. Moreover, GSPE also reduced TGF-β1 expression in the thoracic aorta, which is a determinant in vascular remodeling. In conclusion, GSPE antagonized ouabain-induced hypertension and vascular remodeling and is recommended as a potential anti-hypertensive agent for patients with hypertensive vascular diseases.

  10. Application of Petri Nets in Bone Remodeling

    PubMed Central

    Li, Lingxi; Yokota, Hiroki

    2009-01-01

    Understanding a mechanism of bone remodeling is a challenging task for both life scientists and model builders, since this highly interactive and nonlinear process can seldom be grasped by simple intuition. A set of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) have been built for simulating bone formation as well as bone resorption. Although solving ODEs numerically can provide useful predictions for dynamical behaviors in a continuous time frame, an actual bone remodeling process in living tissues is driven by discrete events of molecular and cellular interactions. Thus, an event-driven tool such as Petri nets (PNs), which may dynamically and graphically mimic individual molecular collisions or cellular interactions, seems to augment the existing ODE-based systems analysis. Here, we applied PNs to expand the ODE-based approach and examined discrete, dynamical behaviors of key regulatory molecules and bone cells. PNs have been used in many engineering areas, but their application to biological systems needs to be explored. Our PN model was based on 8 ODEs that described an osteoprotegerin linked molecular pathway consisting of 4 types of bone cells. The models allowed us to conduct both qualitative and quantitative evaluations and evaluate homeostatic equilibrium states. The results support that application of PN models assists understanding of an event-driven bone remodeling mechanism using PN-specific procedures such as places, transitions, and firings. PMID:19838338

  11. Cigarette Smoke-induced Left Ventricular Remodelling is Associated with Activation of Mitogen-activated Protein Kinases

    PubMed Central

    Gu, Lianzhi; Pandey, Vikas; Geenen, David L.; Chowdhury, Shamim A. K.; Piano, Mariann R.

    2008-01-01

    Aim To determine the effects of cigarette smoke (CS) exposure on the expression/activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) (extracellular signal-regulated kinase [ERK1/2], p38-kinase [p38] and c-Jun NH2–terminal protein kinase [JNK]), norepinephrine (NE) levels and myocardial structure and function. Methods Rats were randomised to two groups: CS–exposed (n = 10) or room air (CON) (n = 12). After 5 weeks, the animals underwent echocardiography with pulse-wave Doppler flow measurements. Hearts were removed for microscopy and Western blot analysis. Results CS exposure was associated with significant increases in NE urinary levels and larger ventricular dimensions (mm) (CON = left ventricular end diastolic dimension [LVEDD] 7.99 ± 0.10, LV end systolic dimension [LVESD] 4.55 ± 0.20, CS = LVEDD 8.3 ± 0.10, LVESD 5.3 ± 0.09, p = 0.026, p = 0.003). There was also evidence of systolic dysfunction in the CS-exposed group compared to the CON group (fractional shortening %, CON = 43 ± 2, CS = 36 ± .09, p = 0.010). In CS-exposed hearts, significant increases in phosphorylated p38/total p38 (0.975 ± 0.05) and phosphorylated ERK1/2/totalERK1/2 (1.919 ± 0.050) were found compared to CON hearts (0.464 ± 0.008, 0.459 ± 0.050, respectively). No significant differences were found in JNK levels between the groups. Conclusions Increased NE levels and MAPK activation are associated with CS-related left ventricular remodelling. PMID:18815071

  12. Lysyl oxidases regulate fibrillar collagen remodelling in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Tjin, Gavin; White, Eric S; Faiz, Alen; Sicard, Delphine; Tschumperlin, Daniel J; Mahar, Annabelle; Kable, Eleanor P W; Burgess, Janette K

    2017-11-01

    Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive scarring disease of the lung with few effective therapeutic options. Structural remodelling of the extracellular matrix [i.e. collagen cross-linking mediated by the lysyl oxidase (LO) family of enzymes (LOX, LOXL1-4)] might contribute to disease pathogenesis and represent a therapeutic target. This study aimed to further our understanding of the mechanisms by which LO inhibitors might improve lung fibrosis. Lung tissues from IPF and non-IPF subjects were examined for collagen structure (second harmonic generation imaging) and LO gene (microarray analysis) and protein (immunohistochemistry and western blotting) levels. Functional effects (collagen structure and tissue stiffness using atomic force microscopy) of LO inhibitors on collagen remodelling were examined in two models, collagen hydrogels and decellularized human lung matrices. LOXL1 / LOXL2 gene expression and protein levels were increased in IPF versus non-IPF. Increased collagen fibril thickness in IPF versus non-IPF lung tissues correlated with increased LOXL1/LOXL2, and decreased LOX, protein expression. β-Aminoproprionitrile (β-APN; pan-LO inhibitor) but not Compound A (LOXL2-specific inhibitor) interfered with transforming growth factor-β-induced collagen remodelling in both models. The β-APN treatment group was tested further, and β-APN was found to interfere with stiffening in the decellularized matrix model. LOXL1 activity might drive collagen remodelling in IPF lungs. The interrelationship between collagen structural remodelling and LOs is disrupted in IPF lungs. Inhibition of LO activity alleviates fibrosis by limiting fibrillar collagen cross-linking, thereby potentially impeding the formation of a pathological microenvironment in IPF. © 2017. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

  13. Delayed Exercise Promotes Remodeling in Sub-Rupture Fatigue Damaged Tendons

    PubMed Central

    Bell, R.; Boniello, M.R.; Gendron, N.R.; Flatow, E.L.; Andarawis-Puri, N.

    2015-01-01

    Tendinopathy is a common musculoskeletal injury whose treatment is limited by ineffective therapeutic interventions. Previously we have shown that tendons ineffectively repair early sub-rupture fatigue damage. In contrast, physiological exercise has been shown to promote remodeling of healthy tendons but its utility as a therapeutic to promote repair of fatigue damaged tendons remains unknown. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the utility of exercise initiated 1 and 14 days after onset of fatigue damage to promote structural repair in fatigue damaged tendons. We hypothesized that exercise initiated 14 days after fatigue loading would promote remodeling as indicated by a decrease in area of collagen matrix damage, increased procollagen I and decorin, while decreasing proteins indicative of tendinopathy. Rats engaged in 6-week exercise for 30 min/day or 60 min/day starting 1 or 14 days after fatigue loading. Initiating exercise 1-day after onset of fatigue injury led to exacerbation of matrix damage, particularly at the tendon insertion. Initiating exercise 14 days after onset of fatigue injury led to remodeling of damaged regions in the midsubstance and collagen synthesis at the insertion. Physiological exercise applied after the initial biological response to injury has dampened can potentially promote remodeling of damaged tendons. PMID:25732052

  14. Protein kinetic signatures of the remodeling heart following isoproterenol stimulation.

    PubMed

    Lam, Maggie P Y; Wang, Ding; Lau, Edward; Liem, David A; Kim, Allen K; Ng, Dominic C M; Liang, Xiangbo; Bleakley, Brian J; Liu, Chenguang; Tabaraki, Jason D; Cadeiras, Martin; Wang, Yibin; Deng, Mario C; Ping, Peipei

    2014-04-01

    Protein temporal dynamics play a critical role in time-dimensional pathophysiological processes, including the gradual cardiac remodeling that occurs in early-stage heart failure. Methods for quantitative assessments of protein kinetics are lacking, and despite knowledge gained from single-protein studies, integrative views of the coordinated behavior of multiple proteins in cardiac remodeling are scarce. Here, we developed a workflow that integrates deuterium oxide (2H2O) labeling, high-resolution mass spectrometry (MS), and custom computational methods to systematically interrogate in vivo protein turnover. Using this workflow, we characterized the in vivo turnover kinetics of 2,964 proteins in a mouse model of β-adrenergic-induced cardiac remodeling. The data provided a quantitative and longitudinal view of cardiac remodeling at the molecular level, revealing widespread kinetic regulations in calcium signaling, metabolism, proteostasis, and mitochondrial dynamics. We translated the workflow to human studies, creating a reference dataset of 496 plasma protein turnover rates from 4 healthy adults. The approach is applicable to short, minimal label enrichment and can be performed on as little as a single biopsy, thereby overcoming critical obstacles to clinical investigations. The protein turnover quantitation experiments and computational workflow described here should be widely applicable to large-scale biomolecular investigations of human disease mechanisms with a temporal perspective.

  15. Protein kinetic signatures of the remodeling heart following isoproterenol stimulation

    PubMed Central

    Lam, Maggie P.Y.; Wang, Ding; Lau, Edward; Liem, David A.; Kim, Allen K.; Ng, Dominic C.M.; Liang, Xiangbo; Bleakley, Brian J.; Liu, Chenguang; Tabaraki, Jason D.; Cadeiras, Martin; Wang, Yibin; Deng, Mario C.; Ping, Peipei

    2014-01-01

    Protein temporal dynamics play a critical role in time-dimensional pathophysiological processes, including the gradual cardiac remodeling that occurs in early-stage heart failure. Methods for quantitative assessments of protein kinetics are lacking, and despite knowledge gained from single-protein studies, integrative views of the coordinated behavior of multiple proteins in cardiac remodeling are scarce. Here, we developed a workflow that integrates deuterium oxide (2H2O) labeling, high-resolution mass spectrometry (MS), and custom computational methods to systematically interrogate in vivo protein turnover. Using this workflow, we characterized the in vivo turnover kinetics of 2,964 proteins in a mouse model of β-adrenergic–induced cardiac remodeling. The data provided a quantitative and longitudinal view of cardiac remodeling at the molecular level, revealing widespread kinetic regulations in calcium signaling, metabolism, proteostasis, and mitochondrial dynamics. We translated the workflow to human studies, creating a reference dataset of 496 plasma protein turnover rates from 4 healthy adults. The approach is applicable to short, minimal label enrichment and can be performed on as little as a single biopsy, thereby overcoming critical obstacles to clinical investigations. The protein turnover quantitation experiments and computational workflow described here should be widely applicable to large-scale biomolecular investigations of human disease mechanisms with a temporal perspective. PMID:24614109

  16. Minor Groove Binder Distamycin Remodels Chromatin but Inhibits Transcription

    PubMed Central

    Majumder, Parijat; Banerjee, Amrita; Shandilya, Jayasha; Senapati, Parijat; Chatterjee, Snehajyoti; Kundu, Tapas K.; Dasgupta, Dipak

    2013-01-01

    The condensed structure of chromatin limits access of cellular machinery towards template DNA. This in turn represses essential processes like transcription, replication, repair and recombination. The repression is alleviated by a variety of energy dependent processes, collectively known as “chromatin remodeling”. In a eukaryotic cell, a fine balance between condensed and de-condensed states of chromatin helps to maintain an optimum level of gene expression. DNA binding small molecules have the potential to perturb such equilibrium. We present herein the study of an oligopeptide antibiotic distamycin, which binds to the minor groove of B-DNA. Chromatin mobility assays and circular dichroism spectroscopy have been employed to study the effect of distamycin on chromatosomes, isolated from the liver of Sprague-Dawley rats. Our results show that distamycin is capable of remodeling both chromatosomes and reconstituted nucleosomes, and the remodeling takes place in an ATP-independent manner. Binding of distamycin to the linker and nucleosomal DNA culminates in eviction of the linker histone and the formation of a population of off-centered nucleosomes. This hints at a possible corkscrew type motion of the DNA with respect to the histone octamer. Our results indicate that distamycin in spite of remodeling chromatin, inhibits transcription from both DNA and chromatin templates. Therefore, the DNA that is made accessible due to remodeling is either structurally incompetent for transcription, or bound distamycin poses a roadblock for the transcription machinery to advance. PMID:23460895

  17. Prostaglandin F2α receptor silencing attenuates vascular remodeling in rats with type 2 diabetes.

    PubMed

    Li, Ya; Han, Lu; Ding, Wen-Yuan; Ti, Yun; Li, Yi-Hui; Tang, Meng-Xiong; Wang, Zhi-Hao; Zhang, Yun; Zhang, Wei; Zhong, Ming

    2015-12-01

    Vascular remodeling is an important feature of diabetic macrovascular complications. The prostaglandin F2α receptor (FP), the expression of which is upregulated by insulin resistance and diabetes, is reportedly involved in myocardial remodeling. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether the FP receptor is implicated in diabetes-induced vascular remodeling. A type 2 diabetic rat model was induced through a high-fat diet and low-dose streptozotocin (STZ). Thirty-two rats were randomized into four groups: control, diabetes, diabetes treated with empty virus and diabetes treated with FP receptor-shRNA. Then, we evaluated the metabolic index, FP receptor expression and vascular remodeling. We used FP receptor gene silencing in vivo to investigate the role that the FP receptor plays in the pathophysiologic features of vascular remodeling. Diabetic rats displayed increased levels of blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides, as well as severe insulin resistance and FP receptor overexpression. In addition, increased medial thickness, excessive collagen deposition and diminished elastic fibers were observed in the diabetic rats, resulting in vascular remodeling. In the FP receptor-shRNA group, the medial thickness, collagen content, elastin/collagen ratio, and collagen I/collagen III content ratio were markedly decreased. Additionally, with FP receptor gene silencing, the JNK phosphorylation level was markedly decreased. Silencing of the FP receptor exerts a protective effect on diabetes-induced vascular remodeling, thereby suggesting a new therapeutic target for vascular remodeling in diabetes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. ADAPTIVE MECHANISMS CONTROLLING UTERINE SPIRAL ARTERY REMODELING DURING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF PREGNANCY

    PubMed Central

    Soares, Michael J.; Chakraborty, Damayanti; Kubota, Kaiyu; Renaud, Stephen J.; Rumi, M.A. Karim

    2015-01-01

    Implantation of the embryo into the uterus triggers the initiation of hemochorial placentation. The hemochorial placenta facilitates the acquisition of maternal resources required for embryo/fetal growth. Uterine spiral arteries form the nutrient supply line for the placenta and fetus. This vascular conduit undergoes gestation stage-specific remodeling directed by maternal natural killer cells and embryo-derived invasive trophoblast lineages. The placentation site, including remodeling of the uterine spiral arteries, is shaped by environmental challenges. In this review, we discuss the cellular participants controlling pregnancy-dependent uterine spiral artery remodeling and mechanisms responsible for their development and function. PMID:25023691

  19. Mechanisms of action of sacubitril/valsartan on cardiac remodeling: a systems biology approach.

    PubMed

    Iborra-Egea, Oriol; Gálvez-Montón, Carolina; Roura, Santiago; Perea-Gil, Isaac; Prat-Vidal, Cristina; Soler-Botija, Carolina; Bayes-Genis, Antoni

    2017-01-01

    Sacubitril/Valsartan, proved superiority over other conventional heart failure management treatments, but its mechanisms of action remains obscure. In this study, we sought to explore the mechanistic details for Sacubitril/Valsartan in heart failure and post-myocardial infarction remodeling, using an in silico, systems biology approach. Myocardial transcriptome obtained in response to myocardial infarction in swine was analyzed to address post-infarction ventricular remodeling. Swine transcriptome hits were mapped to their human equivalents using Reciprocal Best (blast) Hits, Gene Name Correspondence, and InParanoid database. Heart failure remodeling was studied using public data available in gene expression omnibus (accession GSE57345, subseries GSE57338), processed using the GEO2R tool. Using the Therapeutic Performance Mapping System technology, dedicated mathematical models trained to fit a set of molecular criteria, defining both pathologies and including all the information available on Sacubitril/Valsartan, were generated. All relationships incorporated into the biological network were drawn from public resources (including KEGG, REACTOME, INTACT, BIOGRID, and MINT). An artificial neural network analysis revealed that Sacubitril/Valsartan acts synergistically against cardiomyocyte cell death and left ventricular extracellular matrix remodeling via eight principal synergistic nodes. When studying each pathway independently, Valsartan was found to improve cardiac remodeling by inhibiting members of the guanine nucleotide-binding protein family, while Sacubitril attenuated cardiomyocyte cell death, hypertrophy, and impaired myocyte contractility by inhibiting PTEN. The complex molecular mechanisms of action of Sacubitril/Valsartan upon post-myocardial infarction and heart failure cardiac remodeling were delineated using a systems biology approach. Further, this dataset provides pathophysiological rationale for the use of Sacubitril/Valsartan to prevent post

  20. Osteocyte-Intrinsic TGF-β Signaling Regulates Bone Quality through Perilacunar/Canalicular Remodeling

    DOE PAGES

    Dole, Neha S.; Mazur, Courtney M.; Acevedo, Claire; ...

    2017-11-28

    Poor bone quality contributes to bone fragility in diabetes, aging, and osteogenesis imperfecta. However, the mechanisms controlling bone quality are not well understood, contributing to the current lack of strategies to diagnose or treat bone quality deficits. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling is a crucial mechanism known to regulate the material quality of bone, but its cellular target in this regulation is unknown. Studies showing that osteocytes directly remodel their perilacunar/canalicular matrix led us to hypothesize that TGF-β controls bone quality through perilacunar/canalicular remodeling (PLR). Using inhibitors and mice with an osteocyte-intrinsic defect in TGF-β signaling (TβRII ocy-/-), wemore » show that TGF-β regulates PLR in a cell-intrinsic manner to control bone quality. Altogether, this study emphasizes that osteocytes are key in executing the biological control of bone quality through PLR, thereby highlighting the fundamental role of osteocyte-mediated PLR in bone homeostasis and fragility. Resistance to fracture requires healthy bone mass and quality. However, the cellular mechanisms regulating bone quality are unclear. Dole et al. show that osteocyte-intrinsic TGF-β signaling maintains bone quality through perilacunar/canalicular remodeling. Thus, osteocytes mediate perilacunar/canalicular remodeling and osteoclast-directed remodeling to cooperatively maintain bone quality and mass and prevent fragility.« less

  1. Osteocyte-Intrinsic TGF-β Signaling Regulates Bone Quality through Perilacunar/Canalicular Remodeling

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Dole, Neha S.; Mazur, Courtney M.; Acevedo, Claire

    Poor bone quality contributes to bone fragility in diabetes, aging, and osteogenesis imperfecta. However, the mechanisms controlling bone quality are not well understood, contributing to the current lack of strategies to diagnose or treat bone quality deficits. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling is a crucial mechanism known to regulate the material quality of bone, but its cellular target in this regulation is unknown. Studies showing that osteocytes directly remodel their perilacunar/canalicular matrix led us to hypothesize that TGF-β controls bone quality through perilacunar/canalicular remodeling (PLR). Using inhibitors and mice with an osteocyte-intrinsic defect in TGF-β signaling (TβRII ocy-/-), wemore » show that TGF-β regulates PLR in a cell-intrinsic manner to control bone quality. Altogether, this study emphasizes that osteocytes are key in executing the biological control of bone quality through PLR, thereby highlighting the fundamental role of osteocyte-mediated PLR in bone homeostasis and fragility. Resistance to fracture requires healthy bone mass and quality. However, the cellular mechanisms regulating bone quality are unclear. Dole et al. show that osteocyte-intrinsic TGF-β signaling maintains bone quality through perilacunar/canalicular remodeling. Thus, osteocytes mediate perilacunar/canalicular remodeling and osteoclast-directed remodeling to cooperatively maintain bone quality and mass and prevent fragility.« less

  2. Vinpocetine Attenuates Pathological Cardiac Remodeling by Inhibiting Cardiac Hypertrophy and Fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Wu, Mei-Ping; Zhang, Yi-Shuai; Xu, Xiangbin; Zhou, Qian; Li, Jian-Dong; Yan, Chen

    2017-04-01

    Pathological cardiac remodeling, characterized by cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, is a pathological feature of many cardiac disorders that leads to heart failure and cardiac arrest. Vinpocetine, a derivative of the alkaloid vincamine, has been used for enhancing cerebral blood flow to treat cognitive impairment. However, its role in pathological cardiac remodeling remains unknown. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of vinpocetine on pathological cardiac remodeling induced by chronic stimulation with angiotensin II (Ang II). Mice received Ang II infusion via osmotic pumps in the presence of vehicle or vinpocetine. Cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis were assessed by morphological, histological, and biochemical analyses. Mechanistic studies were carried out in vitro with isolated mouse adult cardiac myocytes and fibroblasts. We showed that chronic Ang II infusion caused cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, which were all significantly attenuated by systemic administration of vinpocetine. In isolated adult mouse cardiomyocytes, vinpocetine suppressed Ang II-stimulated myocyte hypertrophic growth. In cultured cardiac fibroblasts, vinpocetine suppressed TGFβ-induced fibroblast activation and matrix gene expression, consistent with its effect in attenuating cardiac fibrosis. The effects of vinpocetine on cardiac myocyte hypertrophy and fibroblast activation are likely mediated by targeting cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase 1 (PDE1). Our results reveal a novel protective effect of vinpocetine in attenuating pathological cardiac remodeling through suppressing cardiac myocyte hypertrophic growth and fibroblast activation and fibrotic gene expression. These studies may also shed light on developing novel therapeutic agents for antagonizing pathological cardiac remodeling.

  3. Lead Poisoning in Remodeling of Old Homes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Barnes, Bart

    1973-01-01

    An article based on Dr. Muriel D. Wolf's study of elevated blood lead levels in children and adults present during the remodeling of old homes. Lead poisoning examples, symptoms, and precautions are given. (ST)

  4. Intrapulmonary vascular remodeling: MSCT-based evaluation in COPD and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficient subjects

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Crosnier, Adeline; Fetita, Catalin; Thabut, Gabriel; Brillet, Pierre-Yves

    2016-03-01

    Whether COPD is generally known as a small airway disease, recent investigations suggest that vascular remodeling could play a key role in disease progression. This paper develops a specific investigation framework in order to evaluate the remodeling of the intrapulmonary vascular network and its correlation with other image or clinical parameters (emphysema score or FEV1) in patients with smoking- or genetic- (alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency - AATD) related COPD. The developed approach evaluates the vessel caliber distribution per lung or lung region (upper, lower, 10%- and 20%- periphery) in relation with the severity of the disease and computes a remodeling marker given by the area under the caliber distribution curve for radii less than 1.6mm, AUC16. It exploits a medial axis analysis in relation with local caliber information computed in the segmented vascular network, with values normalized with respect to the lung volume (for which a robust segmentation is developed). The first results obtained on a 34-patient database (13 COPD, 13 AATD and 8 controls) showed significant vascular remodeling for COPD and AATD versus controls, with a negative correlation with the emphysema degree for COPD, but not for AATD. Significant vascular remodeling at 20% lung periphery was found both for the severe COPD and AATD patients, but not for the moderate groups. Also the vascular remodeling in AATD did not correlate with the FEV1, nor with DLCO, which might suggest independent mechanisms for bronchial and vascular remodeling in the lung.

  5. mFOLFOX6 Plus Panitumumab Versus 5-FU/LV Plus Panitumumab After Six Cycles of Frontline mFOLFOX6 Plus Panitumumab: A Randomized Phase II Study of Patients With Unresectable or Advanced/Recurrent, RAS Wild-type Colorectal Carcinoma (SAPPHIRE)-Study Design and Rationale.

    PubMed

    Nagata, Naoki; Mishima, Hideyuki; Kurosawa, Shuichi; Oba, Koji; Sakamoto, Junichi

    2017-06-01

    In Japan, oxaliplatin (OXA)/5-fluorouracil (5-FU)/leucovorin (LV)-the mFOLFOX6 regimen-is the most frequently used first-line chemotherapy backbone for metastatic colorectal cancer. However, peripheral nerve disorders caused by OXA during mFOLFOX6 therapy can decrease patients' quality of life. OXA can be safely discontinued from a FOLFOX regimen after 6 cycles during first-line therapy. Also, for patients who discontinue OXA without having experienced peripheral nerve disorders, reintroducing OXA in the later stages of treatment could remain an option. The study is a phase II, multicenter, open-label, parallel-group, randomized, controlled exploratory study comparing the efficacy and safety of mFOLFOX6 plus panitumumab and 5-FU/LV plus panitumumab in patients with chemotherapy-naïve, unresectable, advanced or recurrent colorectal carcinoma of RAS wild-type (SAPPHIRE; ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT02337946). Eligible patients will receive 6 cycles of mFOLFOX6 plus panitumumab combination therapy, followed by 1:1 randomization to either further treatment with mFOLFOX6 plus panitumumab or discontinuation of OXA and treatment with 5-FU/LV plus panitumumab. Up to 100 randomized patients will receive treatment for approximately 12 months or until any of the criteria for treatment discontinuation have been met. The primary endpoint is progression-free survival rate at 9 months after the day of randomization. The secondary endpoints are progression-free survival, overall survival, response rate, and interval to treatment failure. Safety will be evaluated according to the incidence and severity of adverse events, including the incidence of peripheral nerve and skin disorders. Additional endpoints will include maintenance of performance status, continuation of OXA in the mFOLFOX6 plus panitumumab group, and continuation of panitumumab in both groups. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  6. [Remodeling of Cardiovascular System: Causes and Consequences].

    PubMed

    Lopatina, E V; Kipenko, A V; Penniyaynen, V A; Pasatetckaia, N A; Tsyrline, V A

    2016-01-01

    Literature and our data suggest the regulatory action of a number of biologically active substances (catecholamines, cardiac glycosides, β-blockers, angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor) on the growth and proliferation of heart cells. By using of organotypic tissue culture has proved that the basis of this regulation is the ability of test substances, receptor- or transducer-mediated signaling to modulate the function of Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase. There is a delay in the development of vascular smooth muscle in the late postnatal period in rats with the blockade of the sympathetic nervous system in the prenatal period. The relationship between vascular remodeling and contractile activity is described. It seems that one of the causes of high blood pressure is a remodeling of the cardiovascular system, which precedes the development of hypertension.

  7. Oxygen drives skeletal muscle remodeling in an amphibious fish out of water.

    PubMed

    Rossi, Giulia S; Turko, Andy J; Wright, Patricia A

    2018-04-24

    Skeletal muscle remodeling in response to terrestrial acclimation improves the locomotor performance of some amphibious fishes on land, but the cue for this remodeling is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that muscle remodeling in the amphibious Kryptolebias marmoratus on land is driven by higher O 2 availability in atmospheric air, and the alternative hypothesis that remodeling is induced by a different environmental or physiological condition fish experience on land. Fish were acclimated to 28 days of air, aquatic hyperoxia, hypercapnia, hypoxia, elevated temperature, or fasting conditions. Air, fasting, and hyperoxic conditions increased (>25%) the size of oxidative fibers in K. marmoratus while hypoxia had the reverse effect (23% decrease). Surprisingly, hyperoxia-acclimation also resulted in a transformation of the musculature to include large bands of oxidative-like muscle. Our results show that K. marmoratus is highly responsive to environmental O 2 levels and capitalize on O 2 -rich opportunities to enhance O 2 utilization by skeletal muscle. © 2018. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

  8. Influence of left ventricular hypertrophy and geometry on diagnostic accuracy of wall motion and perfusion magnetic resonance during dobutamine stress.

    PubMed

    Gebker, Rolf; Mirelis, Jesus G; Jahnke, Cosima; Hucko, Thomas; Manka, Robert; Hamdan, Ashraf; Schnackenburg, Bernhard; Fleck, Eckart; Paetsch, Ingo

    2010-09-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy and geometry on the diagnostic accuracy of wall motion and additional perfusion imaging during high-dose dobutamine/atropine stress magnetic resonance for the detection of coronary artery disease. Combined dobutamine stress magnetic resonance (DSMR)-wall motion and DSMR-perfusion imaging was performed in a single session in 187 patients scheduled for invasive coronary angiography. Patients were classified into 4 categories on the basis of LV mass (normal, ≤ 81 g/m(2) in men and ≤ 62 g/m(2) in women) and relative wall thickness (RWT) (normal, <0.45) as follows: normal geometry (normal mass, normal RWT), concentric remodeling (normal mass, increased RWT), concentric hypertrophy (increased mass, increased RWT), and eccentric hypertrophy (increased mass, normal RWT). Wall motion and perfusion images were interpreted sequentially, with observers blinded to other data. Significant coronary artery disease was defined as ≥ 70% stenosis. In patients with increased LV concentricity (defined by an RWT ≥ 0.45), sensitivity and accuracy of DSMR-wall motion were significantly reduced (63% and 73%, respectively; P<0.05) compared with patients without increased LV concentricity (90% and 88%, respectively; P<0.05). Although accuracy of DSMR-perfusion was higher than that of DSMR-wall motion in patients with concentric hypertrophy (82% versus 71%; P < 0.05), accuracy of DSMR-wall motion was superior to DSMR-perfusion (90% versus 85%; P < 0.05) in patients with eccentric hypertrophy. The accuracy of DSMR-wall motion is influenced by LV geometry. In patients with concentric remodeling and concentric hypertrophy, additional first-pass perfusion imaging during high-dose dobutamine stress improves the diagnostic accuracy for the detection of coronary artery disease.

  9. NREL Visitors Center Closing Temporarily for Remodeling

    Science.gov Websites

    Visitors Center Closing Temporarily for Remodeling Media may contact: George Douglas, 303-275-4096 email: George Douglas Golden, Colo., Sept. 6, 2000 - The Visitors Center at the U.S. Department of

  10. Increased Left Ventricular Mass Index Is Associated With Compromised White Matter Microstructure Among Older Adults.

    PubMed

    Moore, Elizabeth E; Liu, Dandan; Pechman, Kimberly R; Terry, James G; Nair, Sangeeta; Cambronero, Francis E; Bell, Susan P; Gifford, Katherine A; Anderson, Adam W; Hohman, Timothy J; Carr, John Jeffrey; Jefferson, Angela L

    2018-06-26

    Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy is associated with cerebrovascular disease and cognitive decline. Increased LV mass index is a subclinical imaging marker that precedes overt LV hypertrophy. This study relates LV mass index to white matter microstructure and cognition among older adults with normal cognition and mild cognitive impairment. Vanderbilt Memory & Aging Project participants free of clinical stroke, dementia, and heart failure (n=318, 73±7 years, 58% male, 39% mild cognitive impairment) underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging, cardiac magnetic resonance, and neuropsychological assessment. Voxelwise analyses related LV mass index (g/m 2 ) to diffusion tensor imaging metrics. Models adjusted for age, sex, education, race/ethnicity, Framingham Stroke Risk Profile, cognitive diagnosis, and apolipoprotein E-ε4 status. Secondary analyses included a LV mass index×diagnosis interaction term with follow-up models stratified by diagnosis. With identical covariates, linear regression models related LV mass index to neuropsychological performances. Increased LV mass index related to altered white matter microstructure ( P <0.05). In models stratified by diagnosis, associations between LV mass index and diffusion tensor imaging were present among mild cognitive impairment participants only ( P <0.05). LV mass index was related only to worse visuospatial memory performance (β=-0.003, P =0.036), an observation that would not withstand correction for multiple testing. In the absence of prevalent heart failure and clinical stroke, increased LV mass index corresponds to altered white matter microstructure, particularly among older adults with clinical symptoms of prodromal dementia. Findings highlight the potential link between subclinical LV remodeling and cerebral white matter microstructure vulnerability. © 2018 The Authors. Published on behalf of the American Heart Association, Inc., by Wiley.

  11. Pregnancy-induced remodeling of heart valves.

    PubMed

    Pierlot, Caitlin M; Moeller, Andrew D; Lee, J Michael; Wells, Sarah M

    2015-11-01

    Recent studies have demonstrated remodeling of aortic and mitral valves leaflets under the volume loading and cardiac expansion of pregnancy. Those valves' leaflets enlarge with altered collagen fiber architecture, content, and cross-linking and biphasic changes (decreases, then increases) in extensibility during gestation. This study extends our analyses to right-sided valves, with additional compositional measurements for all valves. Valve leaflets were harvested from nonpregnant heifers and pregnant cows. Leaflet structure was characterized by leaflet dimensions, and ECM composition was determined using standard biochemical assays. Histological studies assessed changes in cellular and ECM components. Leaflet mechanical properties were assessed using equibiaxial mechanical testing. Collagen thermal stability and cross-linking were assessed using denaturation and hydrothermal isometric tension tests. Pulmonary and tricuspid leaflet areas increased during pregnancy by 35 and 55%, respectively. Leaflet thickness increased by 20% only in the pulmonary valve and largely in the fibrosa (30% thickening). Collagen crimp length was reduced in both the tricuspid (61%) and pulmonary (42%) valves, with loss of crimped area in the pulmonary valve. Thermomechanics showed decreased collagen thermal stability with surprisingly maintained cross-link maturity. The pulmonary leaflet exhibited the biphasic change in extensibility seen in left side valves, whereas the tricuspid leaflet mechanics remained largely unchanged throughout pregnancy. The tricuspid valve exhibits a remodeling response during pregnancy that is significantly diminished from the other three valves. All valves of the heart remodel in pregnancy in a manner distinct from cardiac pathology, with much similarity valve to valve, but with interesting valve-specific responses in the aortic and tricuspid valves. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

  12. Atrioventricular node functional remodeling induced by atrial fibrillation.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Youhua; Mazgalev, Todor N

    2012-09-01

    The atrioventricular node (AVN) plays a vital role in determining the ventricular rate during atrial fibrillation (AF). AF results in profound electrophysiological and structural remodeling in the atria as well as the sinus node. However, it is unknown whether AVN undergoes remodeling during AF. To determine whether AVN undergoes functional remodeling during AF. AVN conduction properties were studied in vitro in 9 rabbits with AF and 10 normal controls. A previously validated index of AVN dual-pathway electrophysiology, His-electrogram alternans, was used to monitor fast-pathway or slow-pathway (SP) AVN conduction in these experiments. AVN conduction properties were further studied in vivo in 7 dogs with chronic AF and 8 controls. Compared with the control rabbits, the rabbits with AF had a longer AVN conduction time (83 ± 16 ms vs 68 ± 7 ms; P <.01), longer AVN effective refractory period (141 ± 27 ms vs 100 ± 9 ms; P <.01), an earlier transition from fast-pathway to SP conduction (at a longer prematurity, 249 ± 60 ms vs 171 ± 24 ms; P <.01), and a slower ventricular rate during simulated AF (RR interval 249 ± 42 ms vs 202 ± 12 ms; P <.01). Notably, a larger proportion of conducted beats utilized the SP in AF preparations (92% ± 12% vs 63% ± 32%; P <.05). Long-term AF in dogs resulted in a longer atrioventricular conduction time and AVN effective refractory period and a slower ventricular rate during AF compared with the controls. Pronounced AVN functional electrophysiological remodeling occurs after long-term AF, which could lead to a spontaneous slowing of the ventricular rate. Furthermore, the SP dominance during AF underscores the effectiveness of its modification by ablation for ventricular rate control during AF. Copyright © 2012 Heart Rhythm Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Function of Brg1 Chromatin Remodeling Factor in Sonic Hedgehog-Dependent Medulloblastoma Initiation and Maintenance

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-10-01

    Remodeling Factor in Sonic Hedgehog -Dependent Medulloblastoma Initiation and Maintenance PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Xuanming Shi CONTRACTING...Function of Brg1 Chromatin Remodeling Factor in Sonic Hedgehog -Dependent 5b. GRANT NUMBER W81XWH-12-1-0527 Medulloblastoma Initiation and Maintenance...medulloblastoma. 15. SUBJECT TERMS Medulloblastoma, Sonic Hedgehog , Chromatin remodeling, BAF complex, Brg1, mouse model of shh-subtype medulloblastoma

  14. Favorable Changes in Cardiac Geometry and Function Following Gastric Bypass Surgery

    PubMed Central

    Owan, Theophilus; Avelar, Erick; Morley, Kimberly; Jiji, Ronny; Hall, Nathaniel; Krezowski, Joseph; Gallagher, James; Williams, Zachary; Preece, Kevin; Gundersen, Nancy; Strong, Michael B.; Pendleton, Robert C.; Segerson, Nathan; Cloward, Tom V.; Walker, James M.; Farney, Robert J.; Gress, Richard E.; Adams, Ted D.; Hunt, Steven C.; Litwin, Sheldon E.

    2013-01-01

    Objectives The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that gastric bypass surgery (GBS) would favorably impact cardiac remodeling and function. Background GBS is increasingly used to treat severe obesity, but there are limited outcome data. Methods We prospectively studied 423 severely obese patients undergoing GBS and a reference group of severely obese subjects that did not have surgery (n = 733). Results At a 2-year follow up, GBS subjects had a large reduction in body mass index compared with the reference group (−15.4 ± 7.2 kg/m2 vs. −0.03 ± 4.0 kg/m2; p < 0.0001), as well as significant reductions in waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, heart rate, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and insulin resistance. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased. The GBS group had reductions in left ventricular (LV) mass index and right ventricular (RV) cavity area. Left atrial volume did not change in GBS but increased in reference subjects. In conjunction with reduced chamber sizes, GBS subjects also had increased LV midwall fractional shortening and RV fractional area change. In multivariable analysis, age, change in body mass index, severity of nocturnal hypoxemia, E/E', and sex were independently associated with LV mass index, whereas surgical status, change in waist circumference, and change in insulin resistance were not. Conclusions Marked weight loss in patients undergoing GBS was associated with reverse cardiac remodeling and improved LV and RV function. These data support the use of bariatric surgery to prevent cardiovascular complications in severe obesity. PMID:21292133

  15. Qumquad: a UML-based approach for remodeling of legacy systems in health care.

    PubMed

    Garde, Sebastian; Knaup, Petra; Herold, Ralf

    2003-07-01

    Health care information systems still comprise legacy systems to a certain extent. For reengineering legacy systems a thorough remodeling is inalienable. Current modeling techniques like the Unified Modeling Language (UML) do not offer a systematic and comprehensive process-oriented method for remodeling activities. We developed a systematic method for remodeling legacy systems in health care called Qumquad. Qumquad consists of three major steps: (i) modeling the actual state of the application system, (ii) systematic identification of weak points in this model and (iii) development of a target concept for the reimplementation considering the identified weak points. We applied Qumquad for remodeling a documentation and therapy planning system for pediatric oncology (DOSPO). As a result of our remodeling activities we regained an abstract model of the system, an analysis of the current weak points of DOSPO and possible (partly alternative) solutions to overcome the weak points. Qumquad proved to be very helpful in the reengineering process of DOSPO since we now have at our disposal a comprehensive model for the reimplementation of DOSPO that current users of the system agree on. Qumquad can easily be applied to other reengineering projects in health care.

  16. Remodeling and homeostasis of the extracellular matrix: implications for fibrotic diseases and cancer

    PubMed Central

    Cox, Thomas R.; Erler, Janine T.

    2011-01-01

    Dynamic remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) is essential for development, wound healing and normal organ homeostasis. Life-threatening pathological conditions arise when ECM remodeling becomes excessive or uncontrolled. In this Perspective, we focus on how ECM remodeling contributes to fibrotic diseases and cancer, which both present challenging obstacles with respect to clinical treatment, to illustrate the importance and complexity of cell-ECM interactions in the pathogenesis of these conditions. Fibrotic diseases, which include pulmonary fibrosis, systemic sclerosis, liver cirrhosis and cardiovascular disease, account for over 45% of deaths in the developed world. ECM remodeling is also crucial for tumor malignancy and metastatic progression, which ultimately cause over 90% of deaths from cancer. Here, we discuss current methodologies and models for understanding and quantifying the impact of environmental cues provided by the ECM on disease progression, and how improving our understanding of ECM remodeling in these pathological conditions is crucial for uncovering novel therapeutic targets and treatment strategies. This can only be achieved through the use of appropriate in vitro and in vivo models to mimic disease, and with technologies that enable accurate monitoring, imaging and quantification of the ECM. PMID:21324931

  17. Aging and the cardiac collagen matrix: Novel mediators of fibrotic remodelling.

    PubMed

    Horn, Margaux A; Trafford, Andrew W

    2016-04-01

    Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide and there is a pressing need for new therapeutic strategies to treat such conditions. The risk of developing cardiovascular disease increases dramatically with age, yet the majority of experimental research is executed using young animals. The cardiac extracellular matrix (ECM), consisting predominantly of fibrillar collagen, preserves myocardial integrity, provides a means of force transmission and supports myocyte geometry. Disruptions to the finely balanced control of collagen synthesis, post-synthetic deposition, post-translational modification and degradation may have detrimental effects on myocardial functionality. It is now well established that the aged heart is characterized by fibrotic remodelling, but the mechanisms responsible for this are incompletely understood. Furthermore, studies using aged animal models suggest that interstitial remodelling with disease may be age-dependent. Thus with the identification of new therapeutic strategies targeting fibrotic remodelling, it may be necessary to consider age-dependent mechanisms. In this review, we discuss remodelling of the cardiac collagen matrix as a function of age, whilst highlighting potential novel mediators of age-dependent fibrotic pathways. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

  18. Silent Synapse-Based Circuitry Remodeling in Drug Addiction.

    PubMed

    Dong, Yan

    2016-05-01

    Exposure to cocaine, and likely other drugs of abuse, generates α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor-silent glutamatergic synapses in the nucleus accumbens. These immature synaptic contacts evolve after drug withdrawal to redefine the neurocircuital properties. These results raise at least three critical questions: (1) what are the molecular and cellular mechanisms that mediate drug-induced generation of silent synapses; (2) how are neurocircuits remodeled upon generation and evolution of drug-generated silent synapses; and (3) what behavioral consequences are produced by silent synapse-based circuitry remodeling? This short review analyzes related experimental results, and extends them to some speculations. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of CINP.

  19. Remodeling the Vascular Microenvironment of Glioblastoma with α-Particles.

    PubMed

    Behling, Katja; Maguire, William F; Di Gialleonardo, Valentina; Heeb, Lukas E M; Hassan, Iman F; Veach, Darren R; Keshari, Kayvan R; Gutin, Philip H; Scheinberg, David A; McDevitt, Michael R

    2016-11-01

    Tumors escape antiangiogenic therapy by activation of proangiogenic signaling pathways. Bevacizumab is approved for the treatment of recurrent glioblastoma, but patients inevitably develop resistance to this angiogenic inhibitor. We previously investigated targeted α-particle therapy with 225 Ac-E4G10 as an antivascular approach and showed increased survival and tumor control in a high-grade transgenic orthotopic glioblastoma model. Here, we investigated changes in tumor vascular morphology and functionality caused by 225 Ac-E4G10. We investigated remodeling of the tumor microenvironment in transgenic Ntva glioblastoma mice using a therapeutic 7.4-kBq dose of 225 Ac-E4G10. Immunofluorescence and immunohistochemical analyses imaged morphologic changes in the tumor blood-brain barrier microenvironment. Multicolor flow cytometry quantified the endothelial progenitor cell population in the bone marrow. Diffusion-weighted MR imaged functional changes in the tumor vascular network. The mechanism of drug action is a combination of remodeling of the glioblastoma vascular microenvironment, relief of edema, and depletion of regulatory T and endothelial progenitor cells. The primary remodeling event is the reduction of both endothelial and perivascular cell populations. Tumor-associated edema and necrosis were lessened, resulting in increased perfusion and reduced diffusion. Pharmacologic uptake of dasatinib into tumor was enhanced after α-particle therapy. Targeted antivascular α-particle radiation remodels the glioblastoma vascular microenvironment via a multimodal mechanism of action and provides insight into the vascular architecture of platelet-derived growth factor-driven glioblastoma. © 2016 by the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Inc.

  20. Vinpocetine Attenuates Pathological Cardiac Remodeling by Inhibiting Cardiac Hypertrophy and Fibrosis

    PubMed Central

    Wu, Mei-ping; Zhang, Yi-shuai; Xu, Xiangbin; Zhou, Qian

    2017-01-01

    Purpose Pathological cardiac remodeling, characterized by cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, is a pathological feature of many cardiac disorders that leads to heart failure and cardiac arrest. Vinpocetine, a derivative of the alkaloid vincamine, has been used for enhancing cerebral blood flow to treat cognitive impairment. However, its role in pathological cardiac remodeling remains unknown. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of vinpocetine on pathological cardiac remodeling induced by chronic stimulation with angiotensin II (Ang II). Methods Mice received Ang II infusion via osmotic pumps in the presence of vehicle or vinpocetine. Cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis were assessed by morphological, histological, and biochemical analyses. Mechanistic studies were carried out in vitro with isolated mouse adult cardiac myocytes and fibroblasts. Results We showed that chronic Ang II infusion caused cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, which were all significantly attenuated by systemic administration of vinpocetine. In isolated adult mouse cardiomyocytes, vinpocetine suppressed Ang II-stimulated myocyte hypertrophic growth. In cultured cardiac fibroblasts, vinpocetine suppressed TGFβ-induced fibroblast activation and matrix gene expression, consistent with its effect in attenuating cardiac fibrosis. The effects of vinpocetine on cardiac myocyte hypertrophy and fibroblast activation are likely mediated by targeting cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase 1 (PDE1). Conclusions Our results reveal a novel protective effect of vinpocetine in attenuating pathological cardiac remodeling through suppressing cardiac myocyte hypertrophic growth and fibroblast activation and fibrotic gene expression. These studies may also shed light on developing novel therapeutic agents for antagonizing pathological cardiac remodeling. PMID:28321644

  1. Molecular analysis of arterial remodeling: a novel application of infrared imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Herman, Brad C.; Kundi, Rishi; Yamanouchi, Dai; Kent, K. Craig; Liu, Bo; Pleshko, Nancy

    2009-02-01

    Arterial remodeling, i.e. changes in size and/or structure of arteries, plays an important role in vascular disease. Conflicting findings have been reported as to whether an abundance of collagen causes inward or outward remodeling, phenomena that result in either a smaller or larger lumen, respectively. We hypothesize that the amount, type and quality of collagen influence the remodeling response. Here, we create mechanical injury to the rat carotid artery using a balloon catheter, and this leads to inward remodeling. Treatment of the artery with Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF) causes outward remodeling. We investigated the arterial composition in injured CTGF-treated and non-CTGF-treated and sham CTGF-treated and non-CTGF treated arteries 14 days post-injury (n = 7-8 per group) using infrared imaging. A Perkin Elmer Spotlight Spectrum 300 FT-IR microscope was used for data collection. Cross-sections of paraffinembedded arteries were scanned at 2 cm-1 spectral resolution with spatial resolution of 6.25 μm/pixel, and data analyzed using Malvern Instruments ISys 5.0. Post-injury, we found a nearly 50% reduction in the average 1338/AM2 area ratio (correlated to collagen helical integrity). The most dramatic change was a 600% increase in the 1660/1690 peak height ratio, which has previously been related to collagen crosslink maturity. In all cases, CTGF treatment resulted in the observed changes in peak parameters normalized back to control values. Overall, these preliminary studies demonstrate that infrared imaging can provide insight into the underlying molecular changes that contribute to arterial disease.

  2. In vitro chemotaxis and tissue remodeling assays quantitatively characterize foreign body reaction.

    PubMed

    Jannasch, Maren; Weigel, Tobias; Engelhardt, Lisa; Wiezoreck, Judith; Gaetzner, Sabine; Walles, Heike; Schmitz, Tobias; Hansmann, Jan

    2017-01-01

    Surgical implantation of a biomaterial triggers foreign-body-induced fibrous encapsulation. Two major mechanisms of this complex physiological process are (I) chemotaxis of fibroblasts from surrounding tissue to the implant region, followed by (II) tissue remodeling. As an alternative to animal studies, we here propose a process-aligned in vitro test platform to investigate the material dependency of fibroblast chemotaxis and tissue remodeling mediated by material-resident macrophages. Embedded in a biomimetic three-dimensional collagen hydrogel, chemotaxis of fibroblasts in the direction of macrophage-material-conditioned cell culture supernatant was analyzed by live cell imaging. A combination of statistical analysis with a complementary parameterized random walk model allowed quantitative and qualitative characterization of the cellular walk process. We thereby identified an increasing macrophage-mediated chemotactic potential ranking of biomaterials from glass over polytetrafluorethylene to titanium. To address long-term effects of bio-material-resident macrophages on fibroblasts in a three-dimensional microenvironment, we further studied tissue remodeling by applying macrophage-material-conditioned medium on fibrous in vitro tissue models. A high correlation of the in vitro tissue model to state of the art in vivo study data was found. Titanium exhibited a significantly lower tissue remodeling capacity compared to polytetrafluorethylene. With this approach, we identified a material dependency of both chemotaxis and tissue remodeling processes, strengthening knowledge on their specific contribution to the foreign body reaction.

  3. Scar prevention and remodeling: a review of the medical, surgical, topical and light treatment approaches.

    PubMed

    Kerwin, Leonard Y; El Tal, Abdel Kader; Stiff, Mark A; Fakhouri, Tarek M

    2014-08-01

    Cosmetic, functional, and structural sequelae of scarring are innumerable, and measures exist to optimize and ultimately minimize these sequelae. To evaluate the innumerable methods available to decrease the cosmetic, functional, and structural repercussions of scarring, pubMed search of the English literature with key words scar, scar revision, scar prevention, scar treatment, scar remodeling, cicatrix, cicatrix treatment, and cicatrix remodeling was done. Original articles and reviews were examined and included. Seventy-nine manuscripts were reviewed. Techniques, comparisons, and results were reviewed and tabulated. Overall, though topical modalities are easier to use and are usually more attractive to the patient, the surgical approaches still prove to be superior and more reliable. However, advances in topical medications for scar modification are on the rise and a change towards medical treatment of scars may emerge as the next best approach. Comparison studies of the innumerable specific modalities for scar revision and prevention are impossible. Standardization of techniques is lacking. Scarring, the body's natural response to a wound, can create many adverse effects. At this point, the practice of sound, surgical fundamentals still trump the most advanced preventative methods and revision techniques. Advances in medical approaches are available, however, to assist the scarring process, which even the most advanced surgical fundamentals will ultimately lead to. Whether through newer topical therapies, light treatment, or classical surgical intervention, our treatment armamentarium of scars has expanded and will allow us to maximize scar prevention and to minimize scar morbidity. © 2014 The International Society of Dermatology.

  4. Elastin is a key regulator of outward remodeling in arteriovenous fistulas.

    PubMed

    Wong, C Y; Rothuizen, T C; de Vries, M R; Rabelink, T J; Hamming, J F; van Zonneveld, A J; Quax, P H A; Rotmans, J I

    2015-04-01

    Maturation failure is the major limitation of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) as hemodialysis access conduits. Indeed, 30-50% of AVFs fail to mature due to intimal hyperplasia and insufficient outward remodeling. Elastin has emerged as an important determinant of vascular remodeling. Here the role of elastin in AVF remodeling in elastin haplodeficient (eln(+/-)) mice undergoing AVF surgery has been studied. Unilateral AVFs between the branch of the jugular vein and carotid artery in an end to side manner were created in wild-type (WT) C57BL/6 (n = 11) and in eln(+/-) mice (n = 9). Animals were killed at day 21 and the AVFs were analyzed histologically and at an mRNA level using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Before AVF surgery, a marked reduction in elastin density in the internal elastic lamina (IEL) of eln(+/-) mice was observed. AVF surgery resulted in fragmentation of the venous internal elastic lamina in both groups while the expression of the tropoelastin mRNA was 53% lower in the eln(+/-) mice than in WT mice (p < .001). At 21 days after AVF surgery, the circumference of the venous outflow tract of the AVF was 21% larger in the eln(+/-) mice than in the WT mice (p = .037), indicating enhanced outward remodeling in the eln(+/-) mice. No significant difference in intimal hyperplasia was observed. The venous lumen of the AVF in the eln(+/-) mice was 53% larger than in the WT mice, although this difference was not statistically significant (eln(+/-), 350,116 ± 45,073 μm(2); WT, 229,405 ± 40,453 μm(2); p = .064). In a murine model, elastin has an important role in vascular remodeling following AVF creation, in which a lower amount of elastin results in enhanced outward remodeling. Interventions targeting elastin degradation might be a viable option in order to improve AVF maturation. Copyright © 2015 European Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. An investigation into the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii, Bartonella spp., feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) in cats in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

    PubMed

    Tiao, N; Darrington, C; Molla, B; Saville, W J A; Tilahun, G; Kwok, O C H; Gebreyes, W A; Lappin, M R; Jones, J L; Dubey, J P

    2013-05-01

    Toxoplasma gondii and Bartonella spp. are zoonotic pathogens of cats. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) are immunosuppressive viruses of cats that can affect T. gondii oocyst shedding. In this study, the prevalence of antibodies to T. gondii, Bartonella spp., FIV, as well as FeLV antigens were determined in sera from feral cats (Felis catus) from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Using the modified agglutination test, IgG antibodies to T. gondii were found in 41 (85.4%) of the 48 cats with titres of 1:25 in one, 1:50 in one, 1:200 in six, 1:400 in six, 1:800 in six, 1:1600 in eight, and 1:3200 in 13 cats. Toxoplasma gondii IgM antibodies were found in 11/46 cats tested by ELISA, suggesting recent infection. Antibodies to Bartonella spp. were found in five (11%) of 46 cats tested. Antibodies to FIV or FeLV antigen were not detected in any of the 41 cats tested. The results indicate a high prevalence of T. gondii and a low prevalence of Bartonella spp. infection in cats in Ethiopia.

  6. Diltiazem Treatment for Preclinical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Mutation Carriers: A Pilot Randomized Trial to Modify Disease Expression

    PubMed Central

    Ho, Carolyn Y.; Lakdawala, Neal K.; Cirino, Allison L.; Lipshultz, Steven E.; Sparks, Elizabeth; Abbasi, Siddique A.; Kwong, Raymond Y.; Antman, Elliott M.; Semsarian, Christopher; González, Arantxa; López, Begoña; Diez, Javier; Orav, E. John; Colan, Steven D.; Seidman, Christine E.

    2014-01-01

    Background Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is caused by sarcomere mutations and characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) with increased risk of heart failure and sudden death. HCM typically cannot be diagnosed early in life, although subtle phenotypes are present. Animal studies indicate alterations in intracellular calcium handling before LVH develops. Furthermore, early treatment with diltiazem appeared to attenuate disease emergence. Objectives To assess the safety, feasibility, and effect of diltiazem as disease-modifying therapy for at-risk HCM mutation carriers. Methods In a pilot, double-blind trial, we randomly assigned 38 sarcomere mutation carriers without LVH (mean age 15.8 years) to therapy with diltiazem 360 mg/day (or 5 mg/kg/day) or placebo. Treatment duration ranged from 12 to 42 months (median 25 months). Study procedures included electrocardiography, echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and serum biomarker measurement. Results Diltiazem was not associated with serious adverse events. Heart rate and blood pressure did not differ significantly between groups. However, mean left ventricular end diastolic diameter improved towards normal in the diltiazem group but decreased further in controls (change in z-scores, +0.6 vs. −0.5; P<0.001). Mean LV thickness-to-dimension ratio was stable in the diltiazem group, but increased in controls (−0.02 vs. +0.15; P=0.04). Among MYBPC3 mutation carriers, LV wall thickness and mass, diastolic filling, and cardiac troponin I levels improved in those taking diltiazem compared with controls. Four participants developed overt HCM, two in each treatment group. Conclusions Preclinical administration of diltiazem is safe and may improve early LV remodeling in HCM. This novel strategy merits further exploration. PMID:25543971

  7. A new method for in vivo visualization of vessel remodeling using a near-infrared dye

    PubMed Central

    Billaud, Marie; Ross, Jeremy A; Greyson, Mark A; Bruce, Anthony C; Seaman, Scott A; Heberlein, Katherine R; Han, Jenny; Best, Angela K; Peirce, Shayn M; Isakson, Brant E

    2011-01-01

    Intro Vascular obstructive events can be partially compensated for by remodeling processes that increase vessel diameter and collateral tortuosity. However, methods for visualizing remodeling events in vivo and with temporal comparisons from the same animal remain elusive. Methods Using a novel infrared conjugated polyethylene glycol dye, we investigated the possibility of intravital vascular imaging of the mouse ear before and after ligation of the primary feeder artery. For comparison, we used two different mouse models known to have impaired vascular remodeling post ligation (i.e. aged and PAI-1−/− mice). The results obtained with the infrared dye were confirmed using immunofluorescence labeling of the ear microvasculature with confocal microscopy. Results After ligation, increases in vessel diameter (between 10% and 60%) and tortuosity (approximately 15%) were observed in C57Bl/6 mice using both the infrared dye and the immunofluorescence technique. However, aged C57Bl/6 and PAI-1−/− mice did not show vascular remodeling following ligation. Conclusion Vascular remodeling can be visualized and accurately quantified using a new infrared dye in vivo. This analysis technique could be generally employed for quantitative investigations of changes in vascular remodeling. PMID:21418375

  8. Transforming Growth Factor β1 Function in Airway Remodeling and Hyperresponsiveness. The Missing Link?

    PubMed

    Ojiaku, Christie A; Yoo, Edwin J; Panettieri, Reynold A

    2017-04-01

    The pathogenesis of asthma includes a complex interplay among airway inflammation, hyperresponsiveness, and remodeling. Current evidence suggests that airway structural cells, including bronchial smooth muscle cells, myofibroblasts, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells, mediate all three aspects of asthma pathogenesis. Although studies show a connection between airway remodeling and changes in bronchomotor tone, the relationship between the two remains unclear. Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), a growth factor elevated in the airway of patients with asthma, plays a role in airway remodeling and in the shortening of various airway structural cells. However, the role of TGF-β1 in mediating airway hyperresponsiveness remains unclear. In this review, we summarize the literature addressing the role of TGF-β1 in airway remodeling and shortening. Through our review, we aim to further elucidate the role of TGF-β1 in asthma pathogenesis and the link between airway remodeling and airway hyperresponsiveness in asthma and to define TGF-β1 as a potential therapeutic target for reducing asthma morbidity and mortality.

  9. Bone remodelling of a proximal femur with the thrust plate prosthesis: an in vitro case.

    PubMed

    Taylor, W R; Ploeg, H; Hertig, D; Warner, M D; Clift, S E

    2004-06-01

    The key to the development of a successful implant is an understanding of the effect of bone remodelling on its long-term fixation. In this study, clinically observed patterns of bone remodelling have been compared with computer-based predictions for one particular design of prosthesis, the Thrust Plate Prosthesis (Centerpulse Orthopedics, Winterthur, Switzerland). Three-dimensional finite-element models were created using geometrical and bone density data obtained from CT scanning. Results from the bone remodelling simulation indicated that varying the relative rate of bone deposition/resorption and the interfacial conditions between the bone and the implant could produce the trend towards the two clinically observed patterns of remodelling.

  10. Inflammatory Regulation of Valvular Remodeling: The Good(?), the Bad, and the Ugly

    PubMed Central

    Mahler, Gretchen J.; Butcher, Jonathan T.

    2011-01-01

    Heart valve disease is unique in that it affects both the very young and very old, and does not discriminate by financial affluence, social stratus, or global location. Research over the past decade has transformed our understanding of heart valve cell biology, yet still more remains unclear regarding how these cells respond and adapt to their local microenvironment. Recent studies have identified inflammatory signaling at nearly every point in the life cycle of heart valves, yet its role at each stage is unclear. While the vast majority of evidence points to inflammation as mediating pathological valve remodeling and eventual destruction, some studies suggest inflammation may provide key signals guiding transient adaptive remodeling. Though the mechanisms are far from clear, inflammatory signaling may be a previously unrecognized ally in the quest for controlled rapid tissue remodeling, a key requirement for regenerative medicine approaches for heart valve disease. This paper summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding inflammatory mediation of heart valve remodeling and suggests key questions moving forward. PMID:21792386

  11. Association between left atrial phasic conduit function and early atrial fibrillation recurrence in patients undergoing electrical cardioversion.

    PubMed

    Degiovanni, Anna; Boggio, Enrico; Prenna, Eleonora; Sartori, Chiara; De Vecchi, Federica; Marino, Paolo N

    2018-04-01

    Diastolic dysfunction promotes atrial fibrillation (AF) inducing left atrial (LA) remodeling, with chamber dilation and fibrosis. Predominance of LA phasic conduit (LAC) function should reflect not only chamber alterations but also underlying left ventricular (LV) filling impairment. Thus, LAC was tested as possible predictor of early AF relapse after electrical cardioversion (EC). 96 consecutive patients, who underwent EC for persistent non-valvular AF, were prospectively enrolled. Immediately after successful EC (3 h ± 15 min), an echocardiographic apical four-chamber view was acquired with transmitral velocities, annular tissue Doppler and simultaneous LV and LA three-dimensional full-volume datasets. Then, from LA-LV volumetric curves we computed LAC as: [(LV maximum - LV minimum) - (LA maximum - LA minimum) volume], expressed as % LV stroke volume. LA pump, immediately post-EC, was assumed and verified as being negligible. Sinus rhythm persistence at 1 month was checked with ECG-Holter monitoring. At 1 month 62 patients were in sinus rhythm and 34 in AF. AF patients presented pre-EC higher E/é values (p = 0.012), no major LA volume differences (p = NS), but a stiffer LV cavity (p = 0.012) for a comparable LV capacitance (p = 0.461). Conduit contributed more (p < 0.001) to LV stroke volume in AF subpopulation. Multiple regression revealed LAC as the most significant AF predictor (p = 0.013), even after correction for biometric characteristics and pharmacotherapy (p = 0.008). Our data suggest that LAC larger contribution to LV filling soon after EC reflects LA-LV stiffening, which skews atrioventricular interaction leading to AF perpetuation and makes conduit dominance a powerful predictor of early AF recurrence.

  12. Changes in Liver Volume in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Undergoing Antiviral Therapy.

    PubMed

    Fitzpatrick, Julie A; Kim, Jin Un; Cobbold, Jeremy F L; McPhail, Mark J W; Crossey, Mary M E; Bak-Bol, Aluel A; Zaky, Ashraf; Taylor-Robinson, Simon D

    2016-03-01

    Liver volumetric analysis has not been used to detect hepatic remodelling during antiviral therapy before. We measured liver volume (LV) changes on volumetric magnetic resonance imaging during hepatitis C antiviral therapy. 22 biopsy-staged patients (median [range] age 45(19-65) years; 9F, 13M) with chronic hepatitis C virus infection were studied. LV was measured at the beginning, end of treatment and 6 months post-treatment using 3D T1-weighted acquisition, normalised to patient weight. Liver outlines were drawn manually on 4 mm thick image slices and LV calculated. Inter-observer agreement was analysed. Patients were also assessed longitudinally using biochemical parameters and liver stiffness using Fibroscan™. Sustained viral response (SVR) was achieved in 13 patients with a mean baseline LV/kg of 0.022 (SD 0.004) L/kg. At the end of treatment, the mean LV/kg was 0.025 (SD 0.004, P = 0.024 cf baseline LV/kg) and 0.026 (SD 0.004, P = 0.008 cf baseline LV/kg) 6 months post-treatment (P = 0.030 cf baseline, P = 0.004). Body weight-corrected end of treatment LV change was significantly higher in patients with SVR compared to patients not attaining SVR (P = 0.050). End of treatment LV change was correlated to initial ALT (R (2) = 0.479, P = 0.037), but not APRI, AST, viral load or liver stiffness measurements. There was a correlation of 0.89 between observers for measured slice thickness. LV increased during anti-viral treatment, while the body weight-corrected LV increase persisted post-antiviral therapy and was larger in patients with SVR.

  13. Changes in pulmonary arterial wall mechanical properties and lumenal architecture with induced vascular remodeling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Molthen, Robert C.; Heinrich, Amy E.; Haworth, Steven T.; Dawson, Christopher A.

    2004-04-01

    To explore and quantify pulmonary arterial remodeling we used various methods including micro-CT, high-resolution 3-dimensional x-ray imaging, to examine the structure and function of intact pulmonary vessels in isolated rat lungs. The rat is commonly used as an animal model for studies of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and the accompanying vascular remodeling, where vascular remodeling has been defined primarily by changes in the vessel wall composition in response to hypertension inducing stimuli such as chronic hypoxic exposure (CHE) or monocrotaline (MCT) injection. Little information has been provided as to how such changes affect the vessel wall mechanical properties or the lumenal architecture of the pulmonary arterial system that actually account for the hemodynamic consequences of the remodeling. In addition, although the link between primary forms of pulmonary hypertension and inherited genetics is well established, the role that genetic coding plays in hemodynamics and vascular remodeling is not. Therefore, we are utilizing Fawn-Hooded (FH), Sprague-Dawley (SD) and Brown Norway (BN)rat strains along with unique imaging methods to parameterize both vessel distensibility and lumenal morphometry using a principal pulmonary arterial pathway analysis based on self-consistency. We have found for the hypoxia model, in addition to decreased body weight, increased hematocrit, increased right ventricular hypertrophy, the distensibility of the pulmonary arteries is shown to decrease significantly in the presence of remodeling.

  14. Valsartan Reduced Atrial Fibrillation Susceptibility by Inhibiting Atrial Parasympathetic Remodeling through MAPKs/Neurturin Pathway.

    PubMed

    Liu, Lei; Geng, Jianqiang; Zhao, Hongwei; Yun, Fengxiang; Wang, Xiaoyu; Yan, Sen; Ding, Xue; Li, Wenpeng; Wang, Dingyu; Li, Jianqiang; Pan, Zhenwei; Gong, Yongtai; Tan, Xiangyang; Li, Yue

    2015-01-01

    Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) have been proved to be effective in preventing atrial structural and electrical remodelinq in atrial fibrillation (AF). Previous studies have shown that parasympathetic remodeling plays an important role in AF. However, the effects of ARBs on atrial parasympathetic remodeling in AF and the underlying mechanisms are still unknown. Canines were divided into sham-operated, pacing and valsartan + pacing groups. Rats and HL-1 cardiomyocytes were divided into control, angiotensin II (Ang II) and Ang II + valsartan groups, respectively. Atrial parasympathetic remodeling was quantified by immunocytochemical staining with anti-choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) antibody. Western blot was used to analysis the protein expression of neurturin. Both inducibility and duration were increased in chronic atrial rapid-pacing canine model, which was significantly inhibited by the treatment with valsartan. The density of ChAT-positive nerves and the protein level of neurturin in the atria of pacing canines were both increased than those in sham-operated canines. Ang II treatment not only induced atrial parasympathetic remodeling in rats, but also up-regulated the protein expression of neurturin. Valsartan significantly prevented atrial parasympathetic remodeling, and suppressed the protein expression of neurturin. Meanwhile, valsartan inhibited Ang II -induced up-regulation of neurturin and MAPKs in cultured cardiac myocytes. Inhibition of MAPKs dramatically attenuated neurturin up-regulation induced by Ang II. Parasympathetic remodeling was present in animals subjected to rapid pacing or Ang II infusion, which was mediated by MAPKs/neurturin pathway. Valsartan is able to prevent atrial parasympathetic remodeling and the occurrence of AF via inhibiting MAPKs/neurturin pathway. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  15. CT-1-CP-induced ventricular electrical remodeling in mice.

    PubMed

    Chen, Shu-fen; Wei, Tao-zhi; Rao, Li-ya; Xu, Ming-guang; Dong, Zhan-ling

    2015-02-01

    The chronic effects of carboxyl-terminal polypeptide of Cardiotrophin-1 (CT-1-CP) on ventricular electrical remodeling were investigated. CT-1-CP, which contains 16 amino acids in sequence of the C-terminal of Cardiotrophin-1, was selected and synthesized, and then administered to Kunming mice (aged 5 weeks) by intraperitoneal injection (500 ng·g⁻¹·day⁻¹) (4 groups, n=10 and female: male=1:1 in each group) for 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks, respectively. The control group (n=10, female: male=1:1) was injected by physiological saline for 4 weeks. The epicardial monophasic action potential (MAP) was recorded by using a contact-type MAP electrode placed vertically on the left ventricular (LV) epicardium surface, and the electrocardiogram (ECG) signal in lead II was monitored synchronously. ECG intervals (RR, PR, QRS and QT) and the amplitude of MAP (Am), the maximum upstroke velocity (Vmax), as well as action potential durations (APDs) at different repolarization levels (APD30, APD50, APD70, and APD90) of MAP were determined and analyzed in detail. There were no significant differences in RR and P intervals between CT-1-CP-treated groups and control group, but the PR segment and the QRS complex were greater in the former than in the latter (F=2.681 and 5.462 respectively, P<0.05). Though QT interval and the corrected QT interval (QTc) were shorter in CT-1-CP-treated groups than in control group, the QT dispersion (QTd) of them was greater in the latter than in the former (F=3.090, P<0.05) and increased with the time. The ECG monitoring synchronously with the MAP showed that the compression of MAP electrode on the left ventricular epicardium induced performance similar to myocardium ischemia. As compared with those before chest-opening, the PR segment and QT intervals remained basically unchanged in control group, but prolonged significantly in all CT-1-CP-treated groups and the prolongation of QT intervals increased gradually along with the time of exposure to CT-1-CP

  16. Molecular Mechanisms of Right Ventricular Failure

    PubMed Central

    Reddy, Sushma; Bernstein, Daniel

    2015-01-01

    An abundance of data has provided insight into the mechanisms underlying the development of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy and its progression to LV failure. In contrast, there is minimal data on the adaptation of the right ventricle (RV) to pressure and volume overload and the transition to RV failure. This is a critical clinical question, as the RV is uniquely at risk in many patients with repaired or palliated congenital heart disease and in those with pulmonary hypertension. Standard heart failure therapies have failed to improve function or survival in these patients, suggesting a divergence in the molecular mechanisms of RV vs. LV failure. Although, on the cellular level, the remodeling responses of the RV and LV to pressure overload are largely similar, there are several key differences: the stressed RV is more susceptible to oxidative stress, has a reduced angiogenic response, and is more likely to activate cell death pathways than the stressed LV. Together, these differences could explain the more rapid progression of the RV to failure vs. the LV. This review will highlight known molecular differences between the RV and LV responses to hemodynamic stress, the unique stressors on the RV associated with congenital heart disease, and the need to better understand these molecular mechanisms if we are to develop RV-specific heart failure therapeutics. PMID:26527692

  17. Passive solar design strategies: Remodeling guidelines for conserving energy at home

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    The idea of passive solar is simple, but applying it effectively does require information and attention to the details of design and construction. Some passive solar techniques are modest and low-cost, and require only small changes in remodeler's typical practice. At the other end of the spectrum, some passive solar systems can almost eliminate a house's need for purchased heating (and in some cases, cooling) energy - but probably at a relatively high first cost. In between are a broad range of energy-conserving passive solar techniques. Whether or not they are cost-effective, practical, and attractive enough to offer a market advantage to any individual remodeler depends on very specific factors such as local costs, climate, and market characteristics. Passive Solar Design Strategies: Remodeling Guidelines For Conserving Energy At Home is written to help give remodelers the information they need to make these decisions. Passive Solar Design Strategies is a package in three basic parts: the guidelines contain information about passive solar techniques and how they work, and provides specific examples of systems which will save various percentages of energy; the worksheets offer a simple, fill-in-the-blank method to pre-evaluate the performance of a specific design; and the worked example demonstrates how to complete the worksheets for a typical residence.

  18. Refining success of cardiac resynchronization therapy using a simple score predicting the amount of reverse ventricular remodelling: results from the Markers and Response to CRT (MARC) study.

    PubMed

    Maass, Alexander H; Vernooy, Kevin; Wijers, Sofieke C; van 't Sant, Jetske; Cramer, Maarten J; Meine, Mathias; Allaart, Cornelis P; De Lange, Frederik J; Prinzen, Frits W; Gerritse, Bart; Erdtsieck, Erna; Scheerder, Coert O S; Hill, Michael R S; Scholten, Marcoen; Kloosterman, Mariëlle; Ter Horst, Iris A H; Voors, Adriaan A; Vos, Marc A; Rienstra, Michiel; Van Gelder, Isabelle C

    2018-02-01

    Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) reduces morbidity and mortality in systolic heart failure patients with ventricular conduction delay. Variability of individual response to CRT warrants improved patient selection. The Markers and Response to CRT (MARC) study was designed to investigate markers related to response to CRT. We prospectively studied the ability of 11 clinical, 11 electrocardiographic, 4 echocardiographic, and 16 blood biomarkers to predict CRT response in 240 patients. Response was measured by the reduction of indexed left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESVi) at 6 months follow-up. Biomarkers were related to LVESVi change using log-linear regression on continuous scale. Covariates that were significant univariately were included in a multivariable model. The final model was utilized to compose a response score. Age was 67 ± 10 years, 63% were male, 46% had ischaemic aetiology, LV ejection fraction was 26 ± 8%, LVESVi was 75 ± 31 mL/m2, and QRS was 178 ± 23 ms. At 6 months LVESVi was reduced to 58 ± 31 mL/m2 (relative reduction of 22 ± 24%), 130 patients (61%) showed ≥ 15% LVESVi reduction. In univariate analysis 17 parameters were significantly associated with LVESVi change. In the final model age, QRSAREA (using vectorcardiography) and two echocardiographic markers (interventricular mechanical delay and apical rocking) remained significantly associated with the amount of reverse ventricular remodelling. This CAVIAR (CRT-Age-Vectorcardiographic QRSAREA -Interventricular Mechanical delay-Apical Rocking) response score also predicted clinical outcome assessed by heart failure hospitalizations and all-cause mortality. The CAVIAR response score predicts the amount of reverse remodelling after CRT and may be used to improve patient selection. Clinical Trials: NCT01519908. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2017. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  19. Microvascular Remodeling and Wound Healing: A Role for Pericytes

    PubMed Central

    Dulmovits, Brian M.; Herman, Ira M.

    2012-01-01

    Physiologic wound healing is highly dependent on the coordinated functions of vascular and non-vascular cells. Resolution of tissue injury involves coagulation, inflammation, formation of granulation tissue, remodeling and scarring. Angiogenesis, the growth of microvessels the size of capillaries, is crucial for these processes, delivering blood-borne cells, nutrients and oxygen to actively remodeling areas. Central to angiogenic induction and regulation is microvascular remodeling, which is dependent upon capillary endothelial cell and pericyte interactions. Despite our growing knowledge of pericyte-endothelial cell crosstalk, it is unclear how the interplay among pericytes, inflammatory cells, glia and connective tissue elements shape microvascular injury response. Here, we consider the relationships that pericytes form with the cellular effectors of healing in normal and diabetic environments, including repair following injury and vascular complications of diabetes, such as diabetic macular edema and proliferative diabetic retinopathy. In addition, pericytes and stem cells possessing “pericyte-like” characteristics are gaining considerable attention in experimental and clinical efforts aimed at promoting healing or eradicating ocular vascular proliferative disorders. As the origin, identification and characterization of microvascular pericyte progenitor populations remains somewhat ambiguous, the molecular markers, structural and functional characteristics of pericytes will be briefly reviewed. PMID:22750474

  20. Significance of left ventricular diastolic function on outcomes after surgical ventricular restoration.

    PubMed

    Marui, Akira; Nishina, Takeshi; Saji, Yoshiaki; Yamazaki, Kazuhiro; Shimamoto, Takeshi; Ikeda, Tadashi; Sakata, Ryuzo

    2010-05-01

    Surgical ventricular restoration (SVR) has been introduced to restore the dilated left ventricular (LV) chamber and improve LV systolic function; however, SVR has also been reported to detrimentally affect LV diastolic properties. We sought to investigate the impact of preoperative LV diastolic function on outcomes after SVR in patients with heart failure. Sixty-seven patients (60 +/- 14 years) with LV systolic dysfunction (LV ejection fraction, 0.27 +/- 0.10) underwent SVR. They were evaluated by echocardiography preoperatively, and early (LV end-diastolic volume, and grade of mitral regurgitation improved in all groups early after surgery; however, these variables in the restrictive group significantly deteriorated late after surgery (from 29 +/- 8 to 25 +/- 6 for LV ejection fraction; from 183 +/- 59 to 226 +/- 53 for left ventricular end-diastolic volume; and from 0.7 +/- 0.6 to 1.7 +/- 0.9 for mitral regurgitation grade; p < 0.05 for all). In patients with LV systolic dysfunction undergoing SVR, preoperative restrictive LV diastolic filling pattern strongly related to higher mortality with aggravation of LV systolic function, mitral regurgitation grade, or LV remodeling. This might be attributable to deterioration of diastolic function induced by SVR. Copyright (c) 2010 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.