Dopamine D1/D5 Receptor Signaling Is Involved in Arrhythmogenesis in the Setting of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

BackgroundPrevious studies suggested involvement of non-ss-adrenoceptors in the pathogenesis of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC). This study was designed to explore possible roles and underlying mechanisms of dopamine D1/D5 receptor coupled signaling in arrhythmogenesis of TTC. MethodsHuman-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) were challenged by toxic concentration of epinephrine (Epi, 0.5 mM for 1 h) for mimicking the catecholamine excess in setting of TTC. Specific receptor blockers and activators were used to unveil roles of D1/D5 receptors. Patch clamp, qPCR, and FACS analyses were performed in the study. ResultsHigh concentration Epi and two dopamine D1/D5 receptor agonists [(+/-)-SKF 38393 and fenoldopam] reduced the depolarization velocity and prolonged the duration of action potentials (APs) and caused arrhythmic events in iPSC-CMs, suggesting involvement of dopamine D1/D5 receptor signaling in arrhythmogenesis associated with QT interval prolongation in the setting of TTC. (+/-)-SKF 38393 and fenoldopam enhanced the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-production. H2O2 (100 mu M) recapitulated the effects of (+/-)-SKF 38393 and fenoldopam on APs and a ROS-blocker N-acetylcysteine (NAC, 1 mM) abolished the effects, suggesting that the ROS-signaling is involved in the dopamine D1/D5 receptor actions. A NADPH oxidases blocker and a PKA- or PKC-blocker suppressed the effects of the dopamine receptor agonist, implying that PKA, NADPH oxidases and PKC participated in dopamine D1/D5 receptor signaling. The abnormal APs resulted from dopamine D1/D5 receptor activation-induced dysfunctions of ion channels including the Na+ and L-type Ca2+ and I-Kr channels. ConclusionsDopamine D1/D5 receptor signaling plays important roles for arrhythmogenesis of TTC. Dopamine D1/D5 receptor signaling in cardiomyocytes might be a potential target for treating arrhythmias in patients with TTC.