1. In Situ Electrostimulation Drives a Regenerative Shift in the Zone of Infarcted Myocardium
- Author
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Cristiano Spadaccio, Alberto Rainer, Federico De Marco, Mario Lusini, Paolo Gallo, Pietro Sedati, Andrea Onetti Muda, Stefano De Porcellinis, Chiara Gregorj, Giuseppe Avvisati, Marcella Trombetta, Massimo Chello, Elvio Covino, David A. Bull, Amit N. Patel, and Jorge A. Genovese
- Subjects
Medicine - 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.
- Published
- 2013
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