Process Analysis and Parameter Selection of Cardiomyocyte Electroporation Based on the Finite Element Method
Hao Zhang1, Xingkai Ji1, Lianru Zang1
1Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Information Science and Technology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China.
Cardiovascular Engineering and Technology
|November 3, 2023
Summary
This study simulated pulsed electric fields for cardiac ablation, revealing how pulse intensity and duration affect cell membrane pores. Findings guide parameter selection for treating arrhythmias using pulsed-field ablation (PFA).
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Cardiovascular Science
- Electroporation
Background:
- Pulsed-field ablation (PFA) is a promising treatment for atrial fibrillation.
- Understanding electroporation mechanisms is crucial for optimizing PFA parameters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between transmembrane voltage, pore radius, and pulsed electric field parameters.
- To elucidate the distinct effects of microsecond and nanosecond pulses on cardiomyocyte membranes.
Main Methods:
- A 3D cardiomyocyte model with a nucleus was developed to simulate electroporation.
- Simulations focused on cell membrane electroporation under varying pulse parameters.
Main Results:
- A 1 kV/cm, 100 μs pulse induced a transmembrane potential of 1.33 V, increasing pore density and conductivity.
- Maximum pore radius reached 43.4 nm, with pore number correlating positively with electric field intensity (0.5–6 kV/cm).
- Nanosecond pulses at 4–5 kV/cm exceeded 1 V transmembrane potential in nuclear and cell membranes.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a simulation-based understanding of cardiomyocyte electroporation.
- Results offer a foundation for selecting optimal pulsed electric field parameters for PFA in treating cardiac arrhythmias.
