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Updated: Jul 10, 2026
09:20
Lumped-Parameter and Finite Element Modeling of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Published on: February 13, 2021
Heart failure through the lens of complexity
Dirk L Brutsaert1, Andrew Xanthopoulos2,3, Filippos Triposkiadis2,3
1Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
Summary
Heart failure (HF) is reframed using complexity science, exploring quantum and evolutionary biology. New theoretical models offer insights but face challenges in clinical application for managing this complex condition.
Area of Science:
- * Integrates complexity science, including quantum biology, evolutionary biology, non-equilibrium thermodynamics, chaos theory, and systems biology.
- * Applies theoretical constructs like quantum oxidative stress to understand bioenergetic decline in heart failure.
Background:
- * Traditional reductionist approaches have limitations in fully explaining the complex pathophysiology of heart failure (HF).
- * HF is a systemic syndrome where the myocardium cannot maintain adequate cardiac output.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To examine heart failure through the lens of complexity science.
- * To explore novel theoretical frameworks for understanding HF's multifaceted nature.
Main Methods:
- * Theoretical examination of HF using principles from quantum biology, evolutionary biology, thermodynamics, chaos theory, and systems biology.
- * Analysis of concepts such as quantum oxidative stress, dissipative structures, and loss of physiological chaos.
Main Results:
- * Theoretical models suggest quantum oxidative stress impacts bioenergetic decline and HF.
- * Evolutionary perspectives highlight potential lack of redundancy in the heart for modern stressors.
- * Thermodynamic and chaos theory models characterize the heart as a dissipative structure, with HF representing a loss of physiological chaos.
Conclusions:
- * Reframing HF as a failure of organized complexity offers a new conceptual model.
- * Significant translational barriers exist in applying these abstract physics concepts to clinical practice.
- * Bridging abstract physics and clinical physiology may reveal novel pathways for HF understanding and management.
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