SERCA2a Gene Transfer Decreases Sarcoplasmic Reticulum Calcium Leak and Reduces Ventricular Arrhythmias in a Model of Chronic Heart Failure

Abstract

SERCA2a gene therapy stabilizes SR Ca(2+) load, reduces ryanodine receptor phosphorylation and decreases SR Ca(2+) leak, and reduces cellular triggered activity in vitro and spontaneous and catecholamine-induced ventricular arrhythmias in vivo in failing hearts. SERCA2a gene therapy did not therefore predispose to arrhythmias and may represent a novel antiarrhythmic strategy in heart failure.