Mathematical birth of Early Afterdepolarizations in a cardiomyocyte model

Abstract

Early Afterdepolarizations (EADs) are abnormal behaviors that can lead to cardiac failure and even cardiac death. In this paper we investigate the occurrence and development of these phenomena in a reduced Luo–Rudy cardiac model. Through a comprehensive dynamical analysis, we map out the distinct patterns observed in the parametric plane, differentiating between normal beats without EADs and pathological beats with EADs. By examining the bifurcation structure of the model, we elucidate the dynamical elements associated with these patterns and their transitions. Using a fast–slow analysis, we explore the emergence and evolution of EADs in the model. Notably, our approach combines the two commonly used fast–slow approaches (1-slow–2-fast and 2-slow–1-fast), and we show how both approaches together provide a more complete understanding of this phenomenon.