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Microelectrode array analysis

Recordings of extracellular potentials from microelectrode arrays (MEAs) enable non-invasive and long-term monitoring of monolayers or clusters spontaneously contracting cardiomyocytes like human Cor.4U® or mouse Cor.At®. Hallbach and co-workers1 identified by simultaneous current clamp and MEA recording from the same cardiomyocyte culture comparable components in the waveforms in both assay systems and similar modulation of the analyzed parameters after pharmacological intervention. 

The Cor.At® cardiomyocytes reveal electrophysiological properties typical for fetal cardiac myocytes like functional Na+, Ca2+ and K+currents from voltage-gated ion channels including IKr (sensitive to hERG blocker) and their correct modulation through e.g. ß-adrenergic or muscarinic receptors. 

The combination of the Cor.At® mouse cardiomycoytes with the Mel.Cor® MEA assay provides an ideal tool to assess pharmacological, safety pharmacological and toxicological effects of drug candidates on pure cardiomyocytes.

Advantages microelectrode array analysis
  • Non-invasive.
  • Long-term monitoring from cardiomyocytes.
  • High content assay assesses:
  1. Modulation of ion channels
  2. Humoral regulation of electrophysiological properties and chronotropy
  3. Induction of arrhythmic beating patterns
  • Relevant for preclinical safety pharmacology.
  • Requires very low amounts of compounds.