In situ electrostimulation drives a regenerative shift in the zone of infarcted myocardium

Cell Transplant. 2013;22(3):493-503. doi: 10.3727/096368912X652977. Epub 2012 Jul 5.

Abstract

Electrostimulation represents a well-known trophic factor for different tissues. In vitro electrostimulation of non-stem and stem cells induces myogenic predifferentiation and may be a powerful tool to generate cells with the capacity to respond to local areas of injury. We evaluated the effects of in vivo electrostimulation on infarcted myocardium using a miniaturized multiparameter implantable stimulator in rats. Parameters of electrostimulation were organized to avoid a direct driving or pacing of native heart rhythm. Electrical stimuli were delivered for 14 days across the scar site. In situ electrostimulation used as a cell-free, cytokine-free stimulation system, improved myocardial function, and increased angiogenesis through endothelial progenitor cell migration and production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In situ electrostimulation represents a novel means to stimulate repair of the heart and other organs, as well as to precondition tissues for treatment with cell-based therapies.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Atrial Natriuretic Factor / genetics
  • Atrial Natriuretic Factor / metabolism
  • Cell Movement
  • Cell- and Tissue-Based Therapy
  • Electric Stimulation*
  • Electrodes, Implanted
  • Endothelium, Vascular / cytology
  • Female
  • Myocardial Infarction / metabolism
  • Myocardial Infarction / physiopathology*
  • Myocardial Infarction / therapy
  • Myocytes, Cardiac / cytology
  • Myocytes, Cardiac / physiology
  • Neovascularization, Physiologic
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Regeneration
  • Stem Cells / cytology
  • Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / metabolism
  • Ventricular Function, Left / physiology

Substances

  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Atrial Natriuretic Factor