Optical modulation of excitation-contraction coupling in human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes

• DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106121
• Publication Date: 2023-02-02T20:07:19Z
• Authors: Vito Vurro; Beatrice Federici; Carlotta Ronchi; Chiara Florindi; Valentina Sesti; Silvia Crasto; Claudia Maniezzi; Camilla Galli; Maria Rosa Antogn...; Chiara Bertarelli; Elisa Di Pasquale; Guglielmo Lanzani; Francesco Lodola
• Keywords: Photostimulation; Contractility

Non-genetic photostimulation is a novel and rapidly growing multidisciplinary field that aims to induce light-sensitivity in living systems by exploiting exogeneous phototransducers. Here, we propose an intramembrane photoswitch, based on azobenzene derivative (Ziapin2), for optical pacing of human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs). The light-mediated stimulation process has been studied applying several techniques detect the effect cell properties. In particular, recorded changes membrane capacitance, potential (Vm), modulation intracellular Ca2+ dynamics. Finally, contractility was analyzed using custom MATLAB algorithm. Photostimulation Ziapin2 causes transient Vm hyperpolarization followed delayed depolarization action firing. observed initial electrical nicely correlates with dynamics contraction rate. This work represents proof principle can modulate activity hiPSC-CMs, opening up future development cardiac physiology.