Dynamics of Atrial Fibrillation Mechanisms and Comorbidities.

Dynamics of Atrial Fibrillation Mechanisms and Comorbidities. Annu Rev Physiol. 2020 Oct 16;: Authors: Heijman J, Linz D, Schotten U Abstract Atrial fibrillation (AF) contributes to morbidity and mortality of millions of individuals. Its molecular, cellular, neurohumoral, and hemodynamic pathophysiological mechanisms are complex, and there is increasing awareness that a wide range of comorbidities can contribute to AF-promoting atrial remodeling. Moreover, recent research has highlighted that AF risk is not constant and that the temporal variation in concomitant conditions contributes to the complexity of AF dynamics. In this review, we provide an overview of fundamental AF mechanisms related to established and emerging comorbidities or risk factors and their role in the AF-promoting effects. We focus on the accumulating evidence for the relevance of temporally dynamic changes in these risk factors and the consequence for AF initiation and maintenance. Finally, we highlight the important implications for future research and clinical practice resulting from the dynamic interaction between AF risk factors and mechanisms. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Physiology, Volume 83 is February 10, 2021. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates. PMID: 33064962 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Annual Review of Physiology - Category: Physiology Authors: Tags: Annu Rev Physiol Source Type: research