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Published on: March 3, 2021
Desmoplakin Cardiomyopathy
Daniel D Han1, Gregory Jew2, Katherine Kaproth-Joslin3,4
1Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA.
Abstract:
Desmoplakin (DSP) cardiomyopathy is an inherited condition caused by desmosome gene DSP mutation, resulting in arrhythmias, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death. Cardiac MRI typically presents with ring-like subepicardial late gadolinium enhancement which can be mistaken for myocarditis or fatty replacement.
Insights
Desmoplakin (DSP) cardiomyopathy, a genetic heart condition from DSP gene mutations, causes severe heart problems. Cardiac MRI findings may mimic other heart diseases, requiring careful diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Desmoplakin (DSP) cardiomyopathy is an inherited cardiac condition.
- It stems from mutations in the desmosome gene DSP.
- Consequences include arrhythmias, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges of Desmoplakin (DSP) cardiomyopathy.
- To differentiate its characteristic Cardiac MRI findings from other myocardial diseases.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations of Desmoplakin (DSP) cardiomyopathy.
- Analysis of Cardiac MRI features, specifically late gadolinium enhancement patterns.
Main Results:
- Desmoplakin (DSP) cardiomyopathy presents with arrhythmias and heart failure.
- Cardiac MRI typically shows a distinct ring-like subepicardial late gadolinium enhancement.
- This pattern can be misdiagnosed as myocarditis or fatty infiltration.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis of Desmoplakin (DSP) cardiomyopathy is crucial.
- Recognizing the specific Cardiac MRI "ring" enhancement pattern aids differentiation.
- Distinguishing DSP cardiomyopathy from mimics like myocarditis is vital for appropriate patient management.
Related Concept Videos
Desmosomes
Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Cytoskeletal Linker Proteins - Plakins
Cardiomyopathy IV: Restrictive Cardiomyopathy

