Cardiac electrophysiology studies in mice via the transjugular route: a comprehensive practical guide

Cardiac arrhythmias are associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Cardiac electrophysiology studies (EPS) use intra-cardiac catheter recording and stimulation for profound evaluation of the heart's electrical properties. The main clinical applica-tion is investigation and treatment of rhythm disorders. These techniques have been translated to the murine setting to open opportunities for detailed evaluation of the impact of different characteristics (including genetics) and interventions on cardiac electrophysiology and-pathology. Currently, a detailed description of the technique of murine transjugular EPS (which is the standard route of catheter introduction) is lacking. This article provides detailed information on EPS in mice via the transjugular route. This includes catheter placement, stimulation protocols, intracardiac tracing interpretation, artifact reduction, and surface ECG recording. In addition, reference values as obtained in C57BL/6N mice are presented for common electrophysiological pa-rameters. This detailed methodological description aims to increase accessibility and standardization of EPS in mice. Ultimately, also human research and patient care may benefit from translation of the knowledge obtained in preclinical models using this technique. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Electrophysiology studies (EPS) allow in-depth evaluation of cardiac electrophysiology and-pathology. These techniques have been adapted to the murine setting for (translational) studies, mainly focusing on arrhythmogenesis. Despite the frequent application of EPS via the transjugular route, a thorough description of the technique is currently lacking. This article aims to function as a comprehensive guide, also elaborating (for the first time) on nonsurgical aspects such as cathe-ter positioning, tracing artifacts, stimulation protocols, and reference values.

Automated summary

Cardiac electrophysiology studies in mice, particularly focusing on arrhythmogenesis, provide an opportunity for in-depth evaluation of cardiac electrophysiology. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the technique of murine transjugular EPS, including catheter placement, stimulation protocols, tracing interpretation, and reference values. It aims to increase accessibility and standardization of EPS in mice and contribute to translational research and patient care.