Development and Validation of ECG Analysis Algorithm in Mice

Abstract Mouse models have become important in studying cardiac diseases and related electrophysiology, but very few mouse electrocardiography (ECG) analysis programs are readily available. We developed and validated a mouse ECG analysis algorithm. Surface ECG and simultaneously recorded echocardiographic findings were studied in aging heart, after administration of drugs generally recognized as affecting the conduction system and in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and progressive left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) models. Aging led to increases in P wave duration, PQ interval time, QRS complex width and prevalence of arrhythmias, while the R wave amplitude decreased. Anticholinergic atropine shortened PQ time, beta blocker metoprolol, and calcium channel blocker verapamil increased PQ interval and decreased heart rate. After AMI, early JT elevation, development of Q waves, decreased R wave amplitude, and later changes in JT/T segment were seen. In LVH model, QRS complex width was increased and also repolarization abnormalities were seen. The ECG findings associated with aging, drugs, AMI, and LVH were found to resemble the ECG findings seen in human and they were reliably detected with the new algorithm. The developed method will be beneficial in interpreting the mouse ECG findings and the translation of mouse studies into clinical setting.