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Electrocardiographic changes after bilateral carotid sinus denervation in the rat
The American Journal of Physiology
|October 1, 1979
Summary
Bilateral carotid sinus denervation (CSD) in rats caused ECG changes and prolonged action potentials, suggesting altered cardiac sympathetic activity. These findings may explain similar effects observed in humans after carotid endarterectomy.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Autonomic Nervous System Research
Background:
- Carotid sinus denervation (CSD) impacts autonomic regulation.
- ECG and ventricular action potential changes are sensitive indicators of cardiac function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of CSD on ECG and monophasic action potentials (MAP) in rats.
- To explore the role of cardiac sympathetic activity in these alterations.
Main Methods:
- Bilateral CSD was performed on rats.
- ECG and MAP were recorded before and after CSD.
- Pharmacological interventions (propranolol, atropine, isoproterenol) were used.
Main Results:
- CSD induced T wave abnormalities and prolonged Q-T intervals (19 ms).
- Mean MAP increased by 10 ms post-CSD.
- Propranolol prevented ECG changes, while atropine had no effect.
Conclusions:
- CSD alters cardiac sympathetic activity in rats, leading to MAP and Q-T prolongation.
- These findings suggest similar mechanisms may occur in humans post-carotid endarterectomy.
