Biophysics of Excitable Systems Laboratory

• Our researchers have solved the problem of unpinning within the research of mechanisms of formation of specific sources of tachyarrhythmia. We have found out that cell orientation and organization in heart tissue play quite an important role in conduction. It has been determined that ectopic sources can occur on boundaries of domains.
• The Laboratory has conducted analysis of various matrices and their forms for further usage as transplantation materials or for modeling. We have acquired brand new information concerning formation of cells on tissue.
• We have developed a unique cell model of the cardiac monolayer. Using computer modeling we have demonstrated effects occurring as a result of various degrees of anisotropy in cardiac tissue.
• In the domain of photocontrol we have conducted research of toxicity and properties of a group of azobenzenes (АзоТаб) as well as performed works in coalescence of cardiac structures of various types and their stimulation using light.

Implemented results of research:

• We have produced the photocontrolling material called AsoTab using which it is possible to perform temporary ablation. Its possible applications are prevention and treatment of arrhythmia in cardiac surgery.
• The computer model completely forecasting various behaviors of disruption wave in a culture of cardiomyocytes that accounts for formation of heart tissue can be used for forecasting and predicting of arrhythmia in cardiac disease medicine.
• The test system for studying formation of arrhythmia under impact of various medication can be used in the pharmaceuticals industry for developing and testing new medications.

Education and career development:

• 4 candidate dissertations have been defended

Other results: On the basis of human cardiomyocytes extracted from induced pluripotent stem cells we have created a cell engineering model that allows to conduct research in cardiotoxicity and efficiency of antiarrhythmic medications (results have been published in the official journal of the Society of Toxicology).