Sick Sinus Syndrome
Sick sinus syndrome refers to a group of arrhythmias related to the insufficiency of the sinoatrial node which frequently causes disturbances in the cardiac rhythm and conduction. Here at Protheragen, we are focused on accelerating the therapy development for rare cardiovascular diseases like sick sinus syndrome. We offer an integrated comprehensive solution for drug discovery and development from innovative target discovery to sophisticated therapeutic approaches.
Introduction to Sick Sinus Syndrome
Related to non-physiologic sinoatrial node bradycardia, pause, arrest, exit block, atrial tachyarrhythmia or bradyarrhythmia, and/or their alternates, symptomatic sick sinus syndrome is the first cardiac arrhythmia with an indication for pacemaker implantation (involvement of multiple disorders). As for the general population, sick sinus syndrome is quite rare with epidemiological studies estimating its incidence to be at roughly 0.8 cases for every one thousand individuals.
Fig.1 ECG of sick sinus syndrome individual. (Abe, I., et al., 2020)Pathogenesis of Sick Sinus Syndrome
Even though the major contributor to the onset of sick sinus syndrome is aging, there are other factors, both internal and external. More recent works have discovered some gene changes like the SCN5A and HCN mutations among individuals with sick sinus syndrome of congenital origin. SCN5A is the gene responsible for the cardiac sodium channel which is pivotal in the creation and the rapid propagation of action potentials in the heart. Mutations in the gene SCN5A are associated with an extensive variety of hereditary fatal arrhythmias which are collectively known as cardiac Na channelopathy.
Fig.2 Summary of genetic insights into sick sinus syndrome and its risk factors. (Thorolfsdottir, R. B., et al., 2021)Therapeutics Development for Sick Sinus Syndrome
| Drug Names | Mechanism of Action | Targets | Research Phase |
|---|---|---|---|
| losartan | Inhibits angiotensin II's bind to the AT 1 receptor located in vascular smooth muscles and the adrenal gland competitively and reversibly. | AT1R | Approved |
| Procaterol | Works as an agonist at the beta-2 adrenergic receptor and a bronchodilator. | Beta-2 receptors | Approved |
| Yixin-Fumai granules | Significantly inhibit aging-induced sick sinus syndrome, reduce apoptosis rate and ROS content, and stimulate the expression of HCN4 protein. | Nrf-2/HO-1 | Preclinical |
Disclaimer: Protheragen focuses on providing preclinical research services. This table is for information exchange purposes only. This table is not a therapy plan recommendation. For guidance on therapy options, please visit a regular hospital.
Our Services
With unparalleled research and technology as our backbone, we offer rare cardiovascular disease research services, from diagnostics to therapeutic intervention and disease modeling. Furthermore, we provide an extensive array of pharmacokinetic and preclinical drug safety studies. Using sophisticated techniques and methods both in vitro and in vivo, we present accurate evaluations relating to the drug's activity, availability, and toxic characteristics.
Therapeutic Development Services
Diverse Platforms
Animal Model Development for Sick Sinus Syndrome
For comprehending the disease mechanisms and analyzing the possible effectiveness of new therapeutics, animal models are considered to be essential. We provide clients with unparalleled assistance with the development of animal models, including but not limited to: surgical, chemically induced, and genetic engineering models that recapitulate the relevant human pathology.
Genetically Engineered Models
Genetic engineering approaches typically involve manipulating specific genes that are key to the proper functioning of the sinoatrial node.
Optional models:
- Tg (SCN5A-D1275N) model
- HCN1-deficient model
- NCX knockout model
- Other models
Induced Animal Models
Induction of sick sinus syndrome involves administrating agents that directly or indirectly impair the function or structure of the sinoatrial node.
Optional models:
- Sodium hydroxide-induced model
- Angiotensin II-induced model
- Streptozotocin induced model
- Other models
Surgical Animal Models
In surgical models, sick sinus syndrome is induced by modifying or damaging the anatomy or structure of the SAN through invasive procedures.
Optional models:
- Ischemia reperfusion-induced model
- Pinpoint press permeation model
- Other models
At Protheragen, our multidisciplinary team of scientists and experts works seamlessly to convert scientific problems into therapeutic solutions. When working with us, you tap into a rich pool of knowledge, modern technology, and one-stop services customized for the intricate requirements of unusual cardiovascular disorders. Reach out to us today for more information about our services to research complex cardiovascular conditions such as sick sinus syndrome.
References
- Thorolfsdottir, Rosa B et al. "Genetic insight into sick sinus syndrome." European heart journal 42.20 (2021): 1959-1971.
- Abe, Ichitaro et al. "Familial sick sinus syndrome possibly associated with novel SCN5A mutation diagnosed in pregnancy." Heart Rhythm case reports 7.2 (2020): 117-122.
For research use only, not for clinical use.