Atrial Remodeling, Fibrosis and Atrial Fibrillation

Fundamental mechanisms governing the perpetuation of atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common arrhythmia seen in clinical practice, are poorly understood, which explains in part why AF prevention and treatment remain suboptimal. Although some clinical parameters have been identified as predicting a transition from paroxysmal to persistent AF in some patients, the molecular, electrophysiological and structural changes leading to such a progression have not been described in detail. Oxidative stress, atrial dilatation, calcium overload, inflammation, microRNAs and myofibroblast activation are all thought to be involved in AF-induced atrial remodeling.
Source: Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine - Category: Cardiology Authors: Source Type: research