MI frequently precipitates arrhythmias by impairing CM function and inducing fibrosis, which impedes cardiac electrical signal propagation. Utilizing cardiac optical mapping with calcium-sensitive dye, they performed optical mapping on remodeled hEHTs to investigate tissue-level calcium wave propagation abnormalities around the remodeled areas on day 6 post injury.

Representative spatial map of the four remodeled areas in hEHT presenting the difference in calcium activity between the UA and RA (b).

Compared to uninjured areas, the remodeled area exhibited decreased calcium wave conduction velocity and increased directional propagation inhomogeneity owing to the fibrotic scar (Fig. 2c, d). calcium transients within the remodeled area had significantly lower amplitude, maximum upstroke velocity, and maximum recovery velocity, reflecting the diminished calcium signal in the remodeled area (Fig. 2e–g).

Nature Communications (IF15.7)

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-52221-9