Simultaneous stimulation and recording of cardiac depolarization enabled by high-frequency stimulation

High-frequency stimulation techniques have been recently proposed for the pacing and control of excitability of cardiac tissues. This paper introduces a system designed specifically for such stimulation, and demonstrates the unique ability to record depolarization events on the same electrode used for stimulation, during the stimulus. Experimental results with HL-1 cardiomyocytes are presented, highlighting key concepts enabled by this system, such as direct strength-duration relationship measurement and beat-to-beat stimulation threshold monitoring following pacing onset or pharmacological modulation.