Resident Macrophages Orchestrating Heart Rate

Resident macrophages as potential therapeutic targets for cardiac ageing and injury

“…The sinoatrial node located in the right atrium sends electrical signals to the atrioventricular node (AVN) that subsequently transmits the signal to the ventricles. 30,31 Electrical activities are transmitted from one cell to another via the connexin system, especially connexin-43 (CX43). CRMs are especially abundant in the AVN where they contribute to the formation of the CX43-containing gap junctions which connect adjacent cardiomyocytes enabling efficient electrical conduction to both the atria and ventricles ( Figure 2).…”

“…32,33 The cardioprotective roles of CRMs are not limited to the modulation of the electrophysiological properties of the coupled cardiomyocytes. 30 CRMs also regulate conduction abnormalities outside the AVN like ischaemic atrial fibrillation or ventricular arrhythmia. 34 Under pathological conditions, except for the deregulation of cardiomyocytes and specialised conduction system, CRMs can also participate in the formation of the atrioventricular block.…”

“…This suggests that in situ CRM depletion may be a reliable strategy to ensure normal heart rhythm in patients with signs of arrhythmia. 30,36…”

The Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Heart Pacemaker Development in Vertebrates

“…Следует отметить, что дефинитивный пейсмекер САУ является сложной тканевой структурой, включающей специализированные «пейсмекерные» кардиомиоциты, элементы соединительной ткани и резидентные иммунные клетки. Будут приведены сведения, касающиеся только онтогенеза миокардиальной составляющей пейсмекера сердца, хотя несомненно, что остальные клеточные составляющие, служащие элементами микроокружения пейсмекерных кардиомиоцитов, влияют на его развитие и функцию [1].…”