Identifying biomarkers from pacemaker and defibrillator sensors
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Deriving and validating markers of cardiovascular disease from electrophysiological monitoring in pacemaker and defibrillators
IRAS ID
359463
Contact name
Anish Bhuva
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University College London
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Z6364106/2025/11/53, Data Protection Registration Number
Duration of Study in the UK
7 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are amongst the most advanced medical implants, improving outcomes and quality of life. However, every patient does not follow the same life-course. In some, the underlying heart condition can worsen, causing heart pump failure or uncomfortable ICD shocks, and there is high risk of other conditions, like stroke. We do not know why and when such events happen.
Modern implants continuously monitor a range of health measurements, including detailed electrical signals recorded from wires in the heart. In this study, we will export data recorded by cardiac device sensors for detailed analysis. This will be used to identify mechanisms of disease and markers of device malfunction. Advanced pattern recognition techniques (‘artificial intelligence’) will be used to identify hidden patterns in the electrical activity of the heart.
To test the potential for clinical use, two cohorts will be studied. A first group of patients will be followed up to look for changes in electrical signals over time. In a second group of patients, comparisons will be made against established markers of cardiac risk from routinely acquired non-invasive tests such as the electrocardiogram (ECG). Patients will be followed up for symptoms and any change in their health after one year.
REC name
London - Hampstead Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/LO/0065
Date of REC Opinion
11 Feb 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion