Modelling Light Transmittance for the Human Heart using Computational Modelling Techniques in the Effort to Apply Optogenetics for Heart Defibrillation.

Optogenetics is a new and rapidly growing field of bioengineering that allows to control physiological functions of genetically modified cells using light. Applying this novel technique in cardiac applications opens the door to the development of the next generation of cardiac devices, such as contactless implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs). A challenge with the potential use of optogenetic devices in human clinical applications is the limited light penetration through cardiac tissue. In this research, the optical properties of cardiac tissue are experimentally measured for preserved and fresh porcine hearts. The results obtained are used to develop a porcine heart model, which will be further modified and extrapolated to develop a human heart model. The model of light transmittance through human cardiac tissue will serve as a tool to simulate the effectiveness of optogenetic defibrillation. This research is expected to advance the theoretical knowledge in the field of optogenetics and benefit the efforts to develop an optical-based ICD that can be used in clinical settings to improve patient care.

Faculty Supervisor:

Benoit Gosselin

Student:

Partner:

University of Washington

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

Université Laval

Program: