Characterization and differentiation of myocardial remodeling using artificial intelligence-assisted confocal Raman spectroscopy imaging

Abstract

Myocardial remodeling is a crucial pathophysiological factor underlying heart failure, the leading cause of death globally. In this study, we utilized confocal Raman spectroscopy imaging to gain unprecedented insights into myocardial tissue during remodeling. We induced myocardial remodeling in rats via subcutaneous administration of isoproterenol (ISO) (5 mg/kg) over seven days, meticulously validated by echocardiography and histopathological staining. Subsequent analyses using transmission electron microscopy revealed significant mitochondrial damage. Confocal Raman spectroscopy imaging, however, provided the most detailed visualization of the complex architecture within the remodeled myocardial tissue. Notably, this technique enabled precise differentiation between hypertrophic and fibrotic regions within the myocardium. These findings not only deepen our understanding of the mechanisms driving myocardial remodeling but also highlight the transformative potential of confocal Raman spectroscopy imaging as a label-free, high-resolution tool for assessing cardiac pathology. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) assisted identification and rapid differentiation of fibrotic sites in myocardial remodeling tissues further enhance the potential of this technology for targeted clinical applications, marking a significant advancement in managing heart failure.