The Adverse Cardiovascular Effects of Bruton Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors on the Mouse Model

Abstract

Bruton Tyrosine Kinase (BTK) inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment of several hematologic malignancies. However, treatment of cancers such as Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) with BTK inhibitors has led to many adverse cardiovascular side effects. These side effects include atrial fibrillation (AF), myocardial fibrosis, and left atrial enlargement. In this study, a mouse model was used in order to see if the cardiovascular side effects caused by BTK inhibitors resolved upon discontinuation of treatment. Echocardiograms, electrophysiology studies, and histology analyses were utilized in order to determine if these side effects were resolved. Our results showed that while there was a decrease in the adverse cardiovascular effects after recovery there was still a significant difference in phenotypes between the control and experimental groups.