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ABSTRACT: Aims
A single isolated cardiomyocyte is the smallest functional unit of the heart. Yet, all single isolated cardiomyocyte experiments have been limited by the lack of proper methods that could reproduce a physiological cardiac cycle. We aimed to investigate the contractile properties of a single cardiomyocyte that correctly mimic the cardiac cycle.Methods and results
By adjusting the parameters of the feedback loop, using a suitably engineered feedback system and recording the developed force and the length of a single rat cardiomyocyte during contraction and relaxation, we were able to construct force-length (FL) relations analogous to the pressure-volume (PV) relations at the whole heart level. From the cardiac loop graphs, we obtained, for the first time, the power generated by one single cardiomyocyte.Conclusion
Here, we introduce a new approach that by combining mechanics, electronics, and a new type optical force transducer can measure the FL relationship of a single isolated cardiomyocyte undergoing a mechanical loop that mimics the PV cycle of a beating heart.
SUBMITTER: Helmes M
PROVIDER: S-EPMC5853507 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jul
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
Helmes Michiel M Najafi Aref A Palmer Bradley M BM Breel Ernst E Rijnveld Niek N Iannuzzi Davide D van der Velden Jolanda J
Cardiovascular research 20160401 1
<h4>Aims</h4>A single isolated cardiomyocyte is the smallest functional unit of the heart. Yet, all single isolated cardiomyocyte experiments have been limited by the lack of proper methods that could reproduce a physiological cardiac cycle. We aimed to investigate the contractile properties of a single cardiomyocyte that correctly mimic the cardiac cycle.<h4>Methods and results</h4>By adjusting the parameters of the feedback loop, using a suitably engineered feedback system and recording the de ...[more]