Steering Atrial Lesion Electrophysiology by Targeting Non-Myocytes (C17 (P17))

• Subject Area: Cardiology, Angiology ; Anatomy and Physiology
• Term: since 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 422681845

This project investigates the directed steering of atrial lesions, first characterising three lesion types (application of heat, cold, and surgery), and then use a combination of transgenic and non-transgenic animal models, including pig. Building on insight about cardiomyocyte/ non-myocyte interactions in murine atrial lesions, P17 aims to identify and target extra- and intracardiac cell populations that are activated in response to atrial lesioning and home-in to the developing scar. In addition, direct targeting of post-ablation tissue using surface application of genetic interventions via minimally-invasive procedures will be explored for their translational potential. The project aims to maximise the insulating properties of atrial ablation lines, while minimising scar their size and side-effects.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1425: Heterocellular Nature of Cardiac Lesions: Identities, Interactions, Implications
• Applicant Institution: Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Peter Kohl