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Mouse models of arrhythmogenic cardiovascular disease: challenges and opportunities
1Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University Medical School, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University Medical School, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Abstract:
Arrhythmogenic cardiovascular disease is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and, in spite of therapeutic advances, remains an enormous public health burden. The scope of this problem motivates efforts to delineate the molecular, cellular and systemic mechanisms underlying increased arrhythmia risk in inherited and acquired cardiac and systemic disease. The mouse is used increasingly in these efforts owing to the ease with which genetic strategies can be exploited and mechanisms can be probed. The question then arises whether the mouse has proven to be a useful model system to delineate arrhythmogenic cardiovascular disease mechanisms. Rather than trying to provide a definite answer, the goal here is to consider the issues that arise when using mouse models and to highlight the opportunities.
Insights
Mouse models are increasingly used to study arrhythmogenic cardiovascular disease mechanisms. This review considers the utility and challenges of using mice to understand inherited and acquired cardiac conditions, highlighting future opportunities.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Translational Medicine
- Animal Models
Background:
- Arrhythmogenic cardiovascular diseases cause significant morbidity and mortality.
- Despite advances, these conditions remain a major public health concern.
- Understanding underlying mechanisms is crucial for therapeutic development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of mouse models in studying arrhythmogenic cardiovascular disease.
- To explore the molecular, cellular, and systemic mechanisms of arrhythmia risk.
- To identify challenges and opportunities in using mice for this research.
Main Methods:
- Review of current research utilizing mouse models for cardiovascular disease.
- Analysis of genetic strategies and mechanistic probing in mice.
- Consideration of inherited and acquired cardiac and systemic diseases.
Main Results:
- Mice offer advantages for genetic manipulation and mechanistic studies in cardiovascular research.
- The application of mouse models requires careful consideration of their limitations.
- Opportunities exist to refine and expand the use of mice in understanding arrhythmias.
Conclusions:
- Mouse models are valuable tools for investigating arrhythmogenic cardiovascular disease.
- Addressing the challenges associated with mouse models will enhance their utility.
- Further research using mice can lead to significant therapeutic breakthroughs.
