See the light: can optogenetics restore healthy heartbeats? And, if it can, is it really worth the effort?

Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther. 2014 Jan;12(1):17-20. doi: 10.1586/14779072.2014.864951. Epub 2013 Dec 2.

Abstract

Cardiac optogenetics is an exciting new methodology in which light-sensitive ion channels are expressed in heart tissue to enable optical control of bioelectricity. This technology has the potential to open new avenues for safely and effectively treating rhythm disorders in the heart with gentle beams of light. Recently, we developed a comprehensive framework for modeling cardiac optogenetics. Simulations conducted in this platform will provide insights to guide in vitro investigation and steer the development of therapeutic applications - these are the first steps toward clinical translation. In this editorial, we review literature relevant to light-sensitive protein delivery and intracardiac illumination to provide a holistic feasibility assessment for optogenetics-based arrhythmia termination therapy. We then draw on examples from computational work to show that the optical control paradigm has undeniable advantages that cannot be attained with conventional electrotherapy. Hence, we argue that cardiac optogenetics is more than a flashy substitute for current approaches.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Heart Diseases / physiopathology
  • Heart Diseases / therapy*
  • Heart* / physiology
  • Heart* / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Ion Channels / physiology*
  • Light*
  • Optogenetics*
  • Proteins

Substances

  • Ion Channels
  • Proteins