Abstract: A method of classifying individuals as to their risk of experiencing sudden cardiac death (SCD) utilizes single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). A genotype profile, which includes one or more SCD-associated SNPs, is generated for an individual. The probability of experiencing SCD is determined based on the genotype profile.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward methods for regulating biological pacemaking activity and devices used in such regulation. Such regulation can be accomplished by introducing genetic material to the heart by transfecting heart cells of the atrium or ventricle with an oligonucleotide, small interfering RNA, that silence KCNJ2, and suppress the IK1 current. Suppression (or silencing) of KCNJ2 subsequently induces pacemaker-like activities in previously regular myocytes. This invention provides for methods of targeted delivery using a fluid delivery catheter. Such a catheter allows the targeting of a specific area in the atrium or the ventricle of the heart. Also, combination methods of treating arrhythmia with traditional device-based therapies (e.g., pacemakers and defibrillators) and an oligonucleotide of the subject invention.

Abstract: Delivery of genetic material to a stimulation site causes transgene expression by tissue at the stimulation site. In some embodiments, the delivered genetic material causes increased expression of proteins, such as connexins, gap junctions, and ion channels, to increase the conductivity of the tissue at the stimulation site. In some embodiments, the delivered genetic material causes expression of a metalloproteinase, an anti-inflammatory agent, or an immunosuppressant agent. Genetic material is delivered to the stimulation site via a stimulation lead. A stimulation lead for delivering genetic material to a stimulation site includes a chamber that contains a polymeric matrix. The matrix absorbs the genetic material and elutes the genetic material to the stimulation site.

Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to techniques for delivering macromolecules to a tissue site via electroporation. Particularly, a catheter detects contact between a distal end of the catheter and a target tissue site via a sensing electrode at the distal end of the catheter. The catheter delivers a fluid containing macromolecules to the tissue site upon detecting contact between the tissue site and the catheter. Concurrently or soon after delivery of the fluid, an electrical stimulus is applied to the tissue site. The electrical stimulus can be applied by the catheter or directly from a power supply, such as an implanted pulse generator. The electrical stimulus causes membranes of cells within the tissue site to destabilize, in turn, forming pores through which the macromolecules migrate into the cells of the tissue site.