Mechanisms of Ventricular Arrhythmias in Acquired Heart Disease-Mechanisms of Ventricular Arrhythmias in Acquired Heart Disease

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The session at the Heart Rhythm 2025 conference in San Diego highlighted various research on mechanisms of ventricular arrhythmias in acquired heart diseases. Kevin Donohue and Robin Shaw introduced the session, with the first presentation by Bjorn Nollman from Vanderbilt University, who discussed the role of calcium handling abnormalities in ventricular arrhythmias. Nollman focused on the pathological calcium release linked with certain genetic disorders and identified flecainide as effective in preventing arrhythmias. He also discussed dantrolene as an RYR inhibitor that could potentially mediate arrhythmias in structural heart diseases.<br /><br />Anna Finninger from Northwestern University explored the contribution of conduction abnormalities to scar-related ventricular tachycardia. Her research indicated that while structural changes are necessary, they may not be sufficient on their own, suggesting cell junction proteins play a significant role in the VT substrate.<br /><br />Chris Rippinger highlighted neuron-myocyte interactions post-myocardial infarction. He shared insights on how sympathetic nerve remodeling affects cardiac function, potentially causing arrhythmias. His research suggested targeting sympathetic innervation could be beneficial for therapeutic interventions.<br /><br />Finally, Saman Nazarian from the University of Pennsylvania presented findings on the role of non-myocyte cellular factors, emphasizing that fat within scar tissue could influence VT circuits by affecting electrical conduction. This insight could guide ablation strategies, particularly in ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathies.<br /><br />Overall, the session underscored the multifaceted approach required to understand and treat ventricular arrhythmias, considering genetic, structural, and cellular factors.

Keywords

ventricular arrhythmias

Heart Rhythm 2025

calcium handling

flecainide

dantrolene

scar-related ventricular tachycardia

sympathetic nerve remodeling

non-myocyte cellular factors

ischemic cardiomyopathies

ablation strategies