Cellular Basis for the Electrocardiographic J Wave

TLDR: The results provide the first direct evidence in support of the hypothesis that heterogeneous distribution of a transient outward current-mediated spike-and-dome morphology of the action potential across the ventricular wall underlies the manifestation of the electrocardiographic J wave.

Abstract: Background The J wave is a deflection that appears in the ECG as a late delta wave following the QRS or as a small secondary R wave (R′). Also referred to as an Osborn wave, the J wave has been observed in the ECG of animals and humans for more than four decades, yet the mechanism underlying its manifestation is poorly understood. The present study investigates the cellular basis for the J wave using an isolated arterially perfused preparation consisting of a wedge of canine right or left ventricle. Methods and Results A 12-lead ECG was initially recorded in vivo. After isolation and arterial perfusion of the right or left ventricular wedge, transmembrane action potentials were simultaneously recorded from epicardial, M region, and endocardial transmural sites with three floating microelectrodes. A transmural ECG was recorded concurrently. A J wave was observed at the R-ST junction of the ECG in 17 of 20 adult dogs, usually in leads II, III, aVR, and aVF and the mid to lateral precordial leads. The J wave...