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Bai Y, Li R, Hao JF, Chen LW, Liu ST, Zhang XL, Lip GYH, Yang JK, Zou YX, Wang H. Accumulated β-catenin is associated with human atrial fibrosis and atrial fibrillation. J Transl Med 2024; 22:734. [PMID: 39103891 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05558-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with increased risk of stroke and mortality. It has been reported that the process of atrial fibrosis was regulated by β-catenin in rats with AF. However, pathophysiological mechanisms of this process in human with AF remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the possible mechanisms of β-catenin in participating in the atrial fibrosis using human right atrial appendage (hRAA) tissues . METHODS We compared the difference of β-catenin expression in hRAA tissues between the patients with AF and sinus rhythm (SR). The possible function of β-catenin in the development of AF was also explored in mice and primary cells. RESULTS Firstly, the space between the membrane of the gap junctions of cardiomyocytes was wider in the AF group. Secondly, the expression of the gap junction function related proteins, Connexin40 and Connexin43, was decreased, while the expression of β-catenin and its binding partner E-cadherin was increased in hRAA and cardiomyocytes of the AF group. Thirdly, β-catenin colocalized with E-cadherin on the plasma membrane of cardiomyocytes in the SR group, while they were dissociated and accumulated intracellularly in the AF group. Furthermore, the expression of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β) and Adenomatous Polyposis Coli (APC), which participated in the degradation of β-catenin, was decreased in hRAA tissues and cardiomyocytes of the AF group. Finally, the development of atrial fibrosis and AF were proved to be prevented after inhibiting β-catenin expression in the AF model mice. CONCLUSIONS Based on human atrial pathological and molecular analyses, our findings provided evidence that β-catenin was associated with atrial fibrosis and AF progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Bai
- Cardiovascular Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jun-Feng Hao
- Core Facility for Protein Research, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Lian-Wan Chen
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Si-Tong Liu
- Cardiovascular Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xi-Lin Zhang
- Cardiovascular Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK
- Danish Center for Health Services Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Jin-Kui Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yi-Xi Zou
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Hao Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diabetes Research and Care, Beijing Diabetes Institute, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Parent S, Amant JS, Remortel SV, Kahn S, Vaka R, Courtman D, Stewart DJ, Davis DR. Atrial Fibrosis and Inflammation in Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation: Comparative Effects of Amiodarone, Colchicine, or Exosomes. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2024; 10:1037-1049. [PMID: 38639701 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2024.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated from human heart-derived cells have shown promise in suppressing inflammation and fibroblast proliferation. However, their precise benefits in atrial fibrillation (AF) prevention and the role of their antifibrotic/anti-inflammatory properties remain unclear. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to conduct a head-to-head comparison of antiarrhythmic strategies to prevent postoperative AF using a rat model of sterile pericarditis. Specifically, we aimed to assess the efficacy of amiodarone (a classic antiarrhythmic drug), colchicine (an anti-inflammatory agent), and EVs derived from human heart-derived cells, which possess anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic properties, on AF induction, inflammation, and fibrosis progression. METHODS Heart-derived cells were cultured from human atrial appendages under serum-free xenogen-free conditions. Middle-aged Sprague Dawley rats were randomized into different groups, including sham operation, sterile pericarditis with amiodarone treatment, sterile pericarditis with colchicine treatment (2 dose levels), and sterile pericarditis with intra-atrial injection of EVs or vehicle. Invasive electrophysiological testing was performed 3 days after surgery before sacrifice. RESULTS Sterile pericarditis increased the likelihood of inducing AF. Colchicine and EVs exhibited anti-inflammatory effects, but only EV treatment significantly reduced AF probability, whereas colchicine showed a positive trend without statistical significance. EVs and high-dose colchicine reduced atrial fibrosis by 46% ± 2% and 26% ± 2%, respectively. Amiodarone prevented AF induction but had no effect on inflammation or fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS In this study, both amiodarone and EVs prevented AF, whereas treatment with colchicine was ineffective. The additional anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects of EVs suggest their potential as a comprehensive therapeutic approach for AF prevention, surpassing the effects of amiodarone or colchicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Parent
- University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer St Amant
- University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sophie Van Remortel
- University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Saad Kahn
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ramana Vaka
- University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Courtman
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Duncan John Stewart
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Division of Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Darryl Raymond Davis
- University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
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Amioka M, Kinoshita H, Sairaku A, Shokawa T, Nakano Y. Impact of ABO blood type on the risk of atrial fibrillation recurrence after catheter ablation. AMERICAN HEART JOURNAL PLUS : CARDIOLOGY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 40:100384. [PMID: 38586426 PMCID: PMC10994962 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahjo.2024.100384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Background Blood types are classified based on the specific antigenic characteristics they possess. Despite documented associations between antigens and inflammation, a scarcity of data exists concerning the impact of antigens on atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods OSHOH-rhythm study is a multi-center, prospective observational study of 601 patients who underwent catheter ablation for AF. We examined the correlation between blood type groups and both the incidence and recurrence of AF. Additionally, we analyzed the recurrence of AF across antigenic profiles. Results The frequencies of individual blood types were 239 (39.8 %), 190 (31.6 %), 122 (20.3 %), and 50 (8.3 %) for A, O, B, and AB, respectively, aligning closely with the prevalent blood type distribution among the Japanese populace. During follow-up period (18.8 months, median), AF recurrence occurred in 96 patients (22.4 %) lacking the B antigen (A and O), and 26 patients (15.1 %) possessing B antigen (B and AB), respectively (Log-rank test: P = 0.034). A multivariate analysis demonstrated that blood types lacking the B antigen (hazard ratio [HR], 1.55; 95 % CI, 1.01 to 2.42; P = 0.037), hypertension (HR, 1.51; 95 % CI, 1.05 to 2.17; P = 0.026) and non-paroxysmal AF (HR, 1.70; 95 % CI, 1.17 to 2.47; P = 0.005) were independently associated with the recurrence of AF. Conclusions This study elucidates that, despite the absence of direct correlation between blood types and the occurrence of AF, blood types devoid of the B antigen exhibit an enhanced predisposition to AF recurrence. Nonetheless, the intricate mechanism linking blood type to recurrence remains elusive, warranting further comprehensive foundational research on blood types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michitaka Amioka
- Deparment of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hiroshima General Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kinoshita
- Deparment of Cardiovascular Medicine, Onomichi General Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Akinori Sairaku
- Deparment of Cardiovascular Medicine, NHO Higashihiroshima Medical Center, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Tomoki Shokawa
- Deparment of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hiroshima General Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yukiko Nakano
- Deparment of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima, Japan
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Zhang L, van Schie MS, Knops P, Taverne YJHJ, de Groot NMS. A novel diagnostic tool to identify atrial endo-epicardial asynchrony using signal fingerprinting. Hellenic J Cardiol 2024; 75:9-20. [PMID: 37482189 DOI: 10.1016/j.hjc.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) have more electrical endo-epicardial asynchrony (EEA) during sinus rhythm (SR) than patients without AF. Prior mapping studies indicated that particularly unipolar, endo- and/or epicardial electrogram (EGM) morphology may be indicators of EEA. This study aim to develop a novel method for estimating the degree of EEA by using unipolar EGM characteristics recorded from either the endo- and/or epicardium. METHODS Simultaneous endo-epicardial mapping during sinus rhythm was performed in 86 patients. EGM characteristics, including unipolar voltages, low-voltage areas (LVAs), potential types (single, short/long double and fractionated potentials: SP, SDP, LDP and FP) and fractionation duration (FD) of double potentials (DP) and FP were compared between EEA and non-EEA areas. Asynchrony Fingerprinting Scores (AFS) containing quantified EGM characteristics were constructed to estimate the degree of EEA. RESULTS Endo- and epicardial sites of EEA areas are characterized by lower unipolar voltages, a higher number of LDPs and FPs and longer DP and FP durations. Patients with AF have lower potential voltages in EEA areas, along with alterations in the potential types. The EE-AFS, containing the proportion of endocardial LVAs and FD of epicardial DPs, had the highest predictive value for determining the degree of EEA (AUC: 0.913). Endo- and epi-AFS separately also showed good predictive values (AUC: 0.901 and 0.830 respectively). CONCLUSIONS EGM characteristics can be used to identify EEA areas. AFS can be utilized as a novel diagnostic tool for accurately estimating the degree of EEA. These characteristics potentially indicate AF related arrhythmogenic substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Mathijs S van Schie
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Knops
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yannick J H J Taverne
- Translational Cardiothoracic Surgery Research Lab, Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Natasja M S de Groot
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Microelectronics, Signal Processing Systems, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands.
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Li N, Wang L, Li L, Yang MZ, Wang QX, Bai XW, Gao F, Yuan YQ, Yu ZJ, Ren ZG. The correlation between gut microbiome and atrial fibrillation: pathophysiology and therapeutic perspectives. Mil Med Res 2023; 10:51. [PMID: 37936201 PMCID: PMC10629124 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-023-00489-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulation of gut microbiota and its impact on human health is the theme of intensive research. The incidence and prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) are continuously escalating as the global population ages and chronic disease survival rates increase; however, the mechanisms are not entirely clarified. It is gaining awareness that alterations in the assembly, structure, and dynamics of gut microbiota are intimately engaged in the AF progression. Owing to advancements in next-generation sequencing technologies and computational strategies, researchers can explore novel linkages with the genomes, transcriptomes, proteomes, and metabolomes through parallel meta-omics approaches, rendering a panoramic view of the culture-independent microbial investigation. In this review, we summarized the evidence for a bidirectional correlation between AF and the gut microbiome. Furthermore, we proposed the concept of "gut-immune-heart" axis and addressed the direct and indirect causal roots between the gut microbiome and AF. The intricate relationship was unveiled to generate innovative microbiota-based preventive and therapeutic interventions, which shed light on a definite direction for future experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Henan Provincial Chest Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450008, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Meng-Zhao Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Qing-Xiang Wang
- Department of Blood Collection, Xuchang Blood Center, Xuchang, 461000, Henan, China
| | - Xi-Wen Bai
- Nanchang University Queen Marry School, Nanchang, 330036, China
| | - Feng Gao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, 250000, China
| | - Yi-Qiang Yuan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Henan Provincial Chest Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450008, China.
| | - Zu-Jiang Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Zhi-Gang Ren
- Department of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan, 250000, China.
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Liu D, Li Y, Zhao Q. Effects of Inflammatory Cell Death Caused by Catheter Ablation on Atrial Fibrillation. J Inflamm Res 2023; 16:3491-3508. [PMID: 37608882 PMCID: PMC10441646 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s422002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) poses a serious healthcare burden on society due to its high morbidity and the resulting serious complications such as thrombosis and heart failure. The principle of catheter ablation is to achieve electrical isolation by linear destruction of cardiac tissue, which makes AF a curable disease. Currently, catheter ablation does not have a high long-term success rate. The current academic consensus is that inflammation and fibrosis are central mechanisms in the progression of AF. However, artificially caused inflammatory cell death by catheter ablation may have a significant impact on structural and electrical remodeling, which may affect the long-term prognosis. This review first focused on the inflammatory response induced by apoptosis, necrosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis and their interaction with arrhythmia. Then, we compared the differences in cell death induced by radiofrequency ablation, cryoballoon ablation and pulsed-field ablation. Finally, we discussed the structural and electrical remodeling caused by inflammation and the association between inflammation and the recurrence of AF after catheter ablation. Collectively, pulsed-field ablation will be a revolutionary innovation with faster, safer, better tissue selectivity and less inflammatory response induced by apoptosis-dominated cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dishiwen Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People’s Republic of China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People’s Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, 430060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yajia Li
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People’s Republic of China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People’s Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, 430060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qingyan Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People’s Republic of China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People’s Republic of China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, 430060, People’s Republic of China
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Hassanabad AF, Deniset JF, Fedak PWM. Pericardial Inflammatory Mediators That Can Drive Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation in Cardiac Surgery Patients. Can J Cardiol 2023; 39:1090-1102. [PMID: 37301368 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2023.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a common dysrhythmia that affects a significant number of patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Many studies aim to better understand this complex postsurgical complication by analysing circulating biomarkers in patients who develop POAF. More recently, the pericardial space was shown to contain inflammatory mediators that could trigger POAF. In this review we summarise recent studies that examine the immune mediators present in the pericardial space and their potential implications for the pathophysiology of POAF in cardiac surgery patients. Ongoing research in this area should better delineate the multifactorial etiology of POAF, where specific markers may be targeted to reduce the incidence of POAF and improve outcomes for this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Fatehi Hassanabad
- Section of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Justin F Deniset
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Paul W M Fedak
- Section of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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Lee S, Khrestian C, Laurita D, Juzbasich D, Wallick D, Waldo A. Validation of a new species for studying postoperative atrial fibrillation: Swine sterile pericarditis model. Pacing Clin Electrophysiol 2023; 46:1003-1009. [PMID: 37377345 DOI: 10.1111/pace.14765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The canine sterile pericarditis model associated with atrial inflammation is an experimental counterpart of postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF). However, the use of canines for research is restricted by ethics committees in many countries, and social acceptance is declining. OBJECTIVE To validate the feasibility of the swine sterile pericarditis model as an experimental counterpart to study POAF. METHODS Seven domestic pigs (35-60 kg) underwent initial pericarditis surgery. On two or more postoperative days in the closed-chest state, we performed electrophysiological measurements of pacing threshold and atrial effective refractory period (AERP) while pacing from the right atrial appendage (RAA) and the posterior left atrium (PLA). The inducibility of POAF (>5 min) by burst pacing was determined in both the conscious and anesthetized closed-chest state. These data were compared to previously published canine sterile pericarditis data for validation. RESULTS The pacing threshold increased from day 1 to day 3 (2 ± 0.1 to 3.3 ± 0.6 mA in the RAA, 2.5 ± 0.1 to 4.8 ± 0.2 mA in the PLA). Also, the AERP increased from day 1 to day 3 (118 ± 8 to 157 ± 16 ms in the RAA; 98 ± 4 to 124 ± 2 ms in the PLA, both p < .05). Induction of sustained POAF occurred in 43% (POAF CL range 74-124 ms). All electrophysiologic data from the swine model were consistent with the canine model with respect to (1) the range of both pacing threshold and AERP; (2) the progressive increase in threshold and AERP over time; (3) a 40%-50% incidence of POAF. CONCLUSION A newly developed swine sterile pericarditis model demonstrated electrophysiologic properties consistent with the canine model and patients after open heart surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungyup Lee
- Departments of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Celeen Khrestian
- Departments of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Daniel Laurita
- Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Dragan Juzbasich
- Departments of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Don Wallick
- Departments of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Albert Waldo
- Departments of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Dobrev D, Heijman J, Hiram R, Li N, Nattel S. Inflammatory signalling in atrial cardiomyocytes: a novel unifying principle in atrial fibrillation pathophysiology. Nat Rev Cardiol 2023; 20:145-167. [PMID: 36109633 PMCID: PMC9477170 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-022-00759-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation has been implicated in atrial fibrillation (AF), a very common and clinically significant cardiac rhythm disturbance, but its precise role remains poorly understood. Work performed over the past 5 years suggests that atrial cardiomyocytes have inflammatory signalling machinery - in particular, components of the NLRP3 (NACHT-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing 3) inflammasome - that is activated in animal models and patients with AF. Furthermore, work in animal models suggests that NLRP3 inflammasome activation in atrial cardiomyocytes might be a sufficient and necessary condition for AF occurrence. In this Review, we evaluate the evidence for the role and pathophysiological significance of cardiomyocyte NLRP3 signalling in AF. We first summarize the evidence for a role of inflammation in AF and review the biochemical properties of the NLRP3 inflammasome, as defined primarily in studies of classic inflammation. We then briefly consider the broader evidence for a role of inflammatory signalling in heart disease, particularly conditions that predispose individuals to develop AF. We provide a detailed discussion of the available information about atrial cardiomyocyte NLRP3 inflammasome signalling in AF and related conditions and evaluate the possibility that similar signalling might be important in non-myocyte cardiac cells. We then review the evidence on the role of active resolution of inflammation and its potential importance in suppressing AF-related inflammatory signalling. Finally, we consider the therapeutic potential and broader implications of this new knowledge and highlight crucial questions to be addressed in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dobromir Dobrev
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jordi Heijman
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Roddy Hiram
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Na Li
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiovascular Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Stanley Nattel
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany.
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.
- IHU LIRYC and Fondation Bordeaux Université, Bordeaux, France.
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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Proietti R, Giordani AS, Lorenzo CA. ROCK (RhoA/Rho Kinase) Activation in Atrial Fibrillation: Molecular Pathways and Clinical Implications. Curr Cardiol Rev 2023; 19:e171122210986. [PMID: 36625201 PMCID: PMC10280999 DOI: 10.2174/1573403x19666221117092951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the complex mechanisms of AF pathogenesis, intracellular calcium overload and oxidative stress play a major role, both triggered by inflammatory processes. The additional basic event taking place in AF is atrial fibrotic remodeling, again triggered by oxidative stress, which is determined by connexins rearrangement and differentiation of fibroblasts into active collagensecreting myofibroblasts. RhoA/ROCK system is the final pathway of a wide spectrum of molecular effectors such as Angiotensin II, platelet-derived growth factor, connective tissue growth factor and transforming growth factor β, that overall determine calcium dysregulation and pro-fibrotic remodeling. Both in experimental and clinical studies, RhoA/ROCK activation has been linked to superoxide ion production, fibrotic remodeling and connexins rearrangement, with important consequences for AF pathogenesis. ROCK pathway inhibition may therefore be a therapeutic or preventive target for special AF subgroups of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Proietti
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea S. Giordani
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Calò A. Lorenzo
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation Unit, University of Padua and Azienda Ospedale Università di Padova, Padua, Italy
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11
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Ravelli F, Masè M, Cristoforetti A, Avogaro L, D’Amato E, Tessarolo F, Piccoli F, Graffigna A. Quantitative assessment of transmural fibrosis profile in the human atrium: evidence for a three-dimensional arrhythmic substrate by slice-to-slice histology. Europace 2022; 25:739-747. [PMID: 36349600 PMCID: PMC9935010 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euac187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Intramural fibrosis represents a crucial factor in the formation of a three-dimensional (3D) substrate for atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the transmural distribution of fibrosis and its relationship with atrial overload remain largely unknown. The aim of this study is to quantify the transmural profile of atrial fibrosis in patients with different degrees of atrial dilatation and arrhythmic profiles by a high-resolution 3D histology method. METHODS AND RESULTS Serial microtome-cut tissue slices, sampling the entire atrial wall thickness at 5 µm spatial resolution, were obtained from right atrial appendage specimens in 23 cardiac surgery patients. Atrial slices were picrosirius red stained, imaged by polarized light microscopy, and analysed by a custom-made segmentation algorithm. In all patients, the intramural fibrosis content displayed a progressive decrease alongside tissue depth, passing from 68.6 ± 11.6% in the subepicardium to 10-13% in the subendocardium. Distinct transmural fibrotic profiles were observed in patients with atrial dilatation with respect to control patients, where the first showed a slower decrease of fibrosis along tissue depth (exponential decay constant: 171.2 ± 54.5 vs. 80.9 ± 24.4 µm, P < 0.005). Similar slow fibrotic profiles were observed in patients with AF (142.8 ± 41.7 µm). Subepicardial and midwall levels of fibrosis correlated with the degree of atrial dilatation (ρ = 0.72, P < 0.001), while no correlation was found in subendocardial layers. CONCLUSIONS Quantification of fibrosis transmural profile at high resolution is feasible by slice-to-slice histology. Deeper penetration of fibrosis in subepicardial and midwall layers in dilated atria may concur to the formation of a 3D arrhythmic substrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Ravelli
- Corresponding author. Tel: +39 0461 882776. E-mail address:
| | | | - Alessandro Cristoforetti
- Laboratory of Biophysics and Translational Cardiology, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology—CIBIO, University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Laura Avogaro
- Laboratory of Biophysics and Translational Cardiology, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology—CIBIO, University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Elvira D’Amato
- Department of Physics, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Francesco Tessarolo
- Department of Industrial Engineering and BIOtech, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Federico Piccoli
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Santa Chiara Hospital, Trento, Italy
| | - Angelo Graffigna
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Santa Chiara Hospital, Trento, Italy
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12
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The Complex Relation between Atrial Cardiomyopathy and Thrombogenesis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11192963. [PMID: 36230924 PMCID: PMC9563762 DOI: 10.3390/cells11192963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart disease, as well as systemic metabolic alterations, can leave a ‘fingerprint’ of structural and functional changes in the atrial myocardium, leading to the onset of atrial cardiomyopathy. As demonstrated in various animal models, some of these changes, such as fibrosis, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and fatty infiltration, can increase vulnerability to atrial fibrillation (AF), the most relevant manifestation of atrial cardiomyopathy in clinical practice. Atrial cardiomyopathy accompanying AF is associated with thromboembolic events, such as stroke. The interaction between AF and stroke appears to be far more complicated than initially believed. AF and stroke share many risk factors whose underlying pathological processes can reinforce the development and progression of both cardiovascular conditions. In this review, we summarize the main mechanisms by which atrial cardiomyopathy, preceding AF, supports thrombogenic events within the atrial cavity and myocardial interstitial space. Moreover, we report the pleiotropic effects of activated coagulation factors on atrial remodeling, which may aggravate atrial cardiomyopathy. Finally, we address the complex association between AF and stroke, which can be explained by a multidirectional causal relation between atrial cardiomyopathy and hypercoagulability.
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13
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Trimethylamine N-oxide facilitates the progression of atrial fibrillation in rats with type 2 diabetes by aggravating cardiac inflammation and connexin remodeling. J Physiol Biochem 2022; 78:855-867. [PMID: 35962903 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-022-00908-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes is an independent risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF). This study aimed to elucidate the pathophysiology of diabetes-related AF from the perspective of the gut microbial metabolite trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). In the present study, male rats received either a normal diet to serve as the control group or a high-fat diet/streptozotocin to induce type 2 diabetes mellitus. Then, diabetic rats were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of 3,3-dimethyl-1-butanol (DMB, a specific TMAO inhibitor) in drinking water: the diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) group and the DCM + DMB group. Eight weeks later, compared with control rats, rats in the DCM group exhibited gut microbiota dysbiosis and systemic TMAO elevation. The inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were markedly increased in the atria of rats in the DCM group. Downregulated expression of connexin 40 and lateralized distribution of connexin 43 were also observed in the atria of DCM rats. AF inducibility was significantly higher in DCM rats than in control rats. Furthermore, DMB treatment effectively ameliorated atrial inflammation and connexin remodeling while markedly reducing plasma TMAO levels. DMB treatment also decreased the vulnerability of diabetic rats to AF. In conclusion, TMAO might promote atrial inflammation and connexin remodeling in the development of diabetes, which may play a key role in mediating diabetes-related AF.
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14
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Gaudino M, Di Franco A, Rong LQ, Cao D, Pivato CA, Soletti GJ, Chadow D, Cancelli G, Perezgrovas Olaria R, Gillinov M, DiMaio JM, Girardi LN. Pericardial Effusion Provoking Atrial Fibrillation After Cardiac Surgery: JACC Review Topic of the Week. J Am Coll Cardiol 2022; 79:2529-2539. [PMID: 35738715 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2022.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common complication after cardiac surgery. Patients who develop POAF are more likely to experience adverse outcomes, including increased rates of death, stroke, heart failure, and hospitalizations, and higher hospital costs. Understanding the mechanisms underlying POAF is important to improve patients' outcome and optimize health systems' efficiency. Beyond classic pathogenic hypotheses, emerging evidence suggests that postoperative pericardial effusion and localized pericardial inflammation may trigger POAF. This hypothesis is supported by data from nonhuman animal models and a growing body of evidence showing that reducing postoperative pericardial effusion might reduce POAF incidence. In this review, we summarize the classic pathophysiology theories of POAF following cardiac surgery and discuss new etiologic mechanisms with a specific focus on the role of pericardial effusion and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Gaudino
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA.
| | - Antonino Di Franco
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lisa Q Rong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Davide Cao
- The Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Cardiovascular Department, Humanitas Gavazzeni, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Carlo A Pivato
- The Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele-Milan, Italy; IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni J Soletti
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - David Chadow
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Gianmarco Cancelli
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Marc Gillinov
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - J Michael DiMaio
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Baylor Scott & White Heart Hospital, Plano, Texas, USA
| | - Leonard N Girardi
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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15
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Sánchez FJ, Pueyo E, Diez ER. Strain Echocardiography to Predict Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:1355. [PMID: 35163278 PMCID: PMC8836170 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) complicates 15% to 40% of cardiovascular surgeries. Its incidence progressively increases with aging, reaching 50% in octogenarians. This arrhythmia is usually transient but it increases the risk of embolic stroke, prolonged hospital stay, and cardiovascular mortality. Though many pathophysiological mechanisms are known, POAF prediction is still a hot topic of discussion. Doppler echocardiogram and, lately, strain echocardiography have shown significant capacity to predict POAF. Alterations in oxidative stress, calcium handling, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, fibrosis, and tissue aging are among the mechanisms that predispose patients to the perfect "atrial storm". Manifestations of these mechanisms have been related to enlarged atria and impaired function, which can be detected prior to surgery. Specific alterations in the atrial reservoir and pump function, as well as atrial dyssynchrony determined by echocardiographic atrial strain, can predict POAF and help to shed light on which patients could benefit from preventive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Esther Pueyo
- BSICOS Group, I3A, IIS Aragón, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain;
- CIBER-BBN, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Emiliano Raúl Diez
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, National University of Cuyo, Mendoza 5500, Argentina;
- Institute of Medical and Experimental Biology of Cuyo, IMBECU-UNCuyo-CONICET, Mendoza 5500, Argentina
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16
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Meraviglia V, Alcalde M, Campuzano O, Bellin M. Inflammation in the Pathogenesis of Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy: Secondary Event or Active Driver? Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 8:784715. [PMID: 34988129 PMCID: PMC8720743 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.784715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a rare inherited cardiac disease characterized by arrhythmia and progressive fibro-fatty replacement of the myocardium, which leads to heart failure and sudden cardiac death. Inflammation contributes to disease progression, and it is characterized by inflammatory cell infiltrates in the damaged myocardium and inflammatory mediators in the blood of ACM patients. However, the molecular basis of inflammatory process in ACM remains under investigated and it is unclear whether inflammation is a primary event leading to arrhythmia and myocardial damage or it is a secondary response triggered by cardiomyocyte death. Here, we provide an overview of the proposed players and triggers involved in inflammation in ACM, focusing on those studied using in vivo and in vitro models. Deepening current knowledge of inflammation-related mechanisms in ACM could help identifying novel therapeutic perspectives, such as anti-inflammatory therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Meraviglia
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Mireia Alcalde
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, University of Girona-IdIBGi, Girona, Spain.,Centro Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Oscar Campuzano
- Cardiovascular Genetics Center, University of Girona-IdIBGi, Girona, Spain.,Centro Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain.,Medical Science Department, School of Medicine, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Milena Bellin
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands.,Department of Biology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.,Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padua, Italy
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17
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Chen C, Chen Q, Cheng K, Zou T, Pang Y, Ling Y, Xu Y, Zhu W. Exosomes and Exosomal Non-coding RNAs Are Novel Promises for the Mechanism-Based Diagnosis and Treatments of Atrial Fibrillation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:782451. [PMID: 34926627 PMCID: PMC8671698 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.782451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia worldwide and has a significant impact on human health and substantial costs. Currently, there is a lack of accurate biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of AF. Moreover, the long-term efficacy of the catheter ablation in the AF is unsatisfactory. Therefore, it is necessary to explore new biomarkers and treatment strategies for the mechanism-based AF. Exosomes are nano-sized biovesicles released by nearly all types of cells. Since the AF would be linked to the changes of the atrial cells and their microenvironment, and the AF would strictly influence the exosomal non-coding RNAs (exo-ncRNAs) expression, which makes them as attractive diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for the AF. Simultaneously, the exo-ncRNAs have been found to play an important role in the mechanisms of the AF and have potential therapeutic prospects. Although the role of the exo-ncRNAs in the AF is being actively investigated, the evidence is still limited. Furthermore, there is a lack of consensus regarding the most appropriate approach for exosome isolation and characterization. In this article, we reviewed the new methodologies available for exosomes biogenesis, isolation, and characterization, and then discussed the mechanism of the AF and various levels and types of exosomes relevant to the AF, with the special emphasis on the exo-ncRNAs in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of the mechanism-based AF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Wenqing Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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18
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Gottlieb LA, Dekker LRC, Coronel R. The Blinding Period Following Ablation Therapy for Atrial Fibrillation: Proarrhythmic and Antiarrhythmic Pathophysiological Mechanisms. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2021; 7:416-430. [PMID: 33736761 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2021.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) causes heart failure, ischemic strokes, and poor quality of life. The number of patients with AF is estimated to increase to 18 million in Europe in 2050. Pharmacological therapy does not cure AF in all patients. Ablative pulmonary vein isolation is recommended for patients with drug-resistant symptomatic paroxysmal AF but is successful in only about 60%. In patients in whom ablative therapy is successful on the long term, recurrence of AF may occur in the first weeks to months after pulmonary vein ablation. The early recurrence (or delayed cure) of AF is not understood but forms the basis for the generally accepted 3-month blinding (or blanking) period after ablation therapy, which is not included in the evaluation of the eventual success rate of the procedures. The underlying pathophysiological processes responsible for early recurrence and the delayed cure are unknown. The implicit assumption of the blinding period is that the AF mechanism in this period is different from the ablation-targeted AF mechanism (ectopy from the pulmonary veins). In this review, we evaluate the temporary and long-lasting pro- and antiarrhythmic effects of each of the pathophysiological processes and interventions (necrosis, ischemia, oxidative stress, edema, inflammation, autonomic nervous activity, tissue repair, mechanical remodeling, and use of antiarrhythmic drugs) occurring in the blinding period that can modulate AF mechanisms. We propose that stretch-reducing ablation scar is a permanent antiarrhythmic mechanism that develops during the blinding period and is the reason for delayed cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A Gottlieb
- Electrophysiology and Heart Modelling Institute, University of Bordeaux, Pessac, France; Department of Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lukas R C Dekker
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands; Cardiology Department, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, the Netherlands.
| | - Ruben Coronel
- Electrophysiology and Heart Modelling Institute, University of Bordeaux, Pessac, France; Department of Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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19
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Liu Y, Wu F, Wu Y, Elliott M, Zhou W, Deng Y, Ren D, Zhao H. Mechanism of IL-6-related spontaneous atrial fibrillation after coronary artery grafting surgery: IL-6 knockout mouse study and human observation. Transl Res 2021; 233:16-31. [PMID: 33465490 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2021.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Clinical observation and ex vivo studies have established a strong association between inflammation and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF). However, it is unclear whether the inflammatory phenotype is causally linked to this event or is an epiphenomenon, and it is not known which inflammatory meditators may increase susceptibility to POAF. The limitations of available animal models of spontaneous POAF (sPOAF) makes it difficult to select an experimental system. Here, we provide experimental and clinical evidence for mechanistic involvement of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in sPOAF. PHASE I We established a mouse model of cardiac surgery with nonpaced sPOAF. IL-6 knockout mice were protected from sPOAF compared with wild-type mice. PHASE II At 48 hours after surgery, the heart was separated into 6 regions and cultured. IL-6 was expressed in all regions, with highest abundance in the left atrium (LA). In PHASE III, we demonstrated that IL-6 in the LA elicited early profibrotic properties in atria via the pSTAT3/STAT3 signaling pathway and contributed to sPOAF. PHASE IV In a translational prospective clinical study, we demonstrated that humans with POAF had a higher IL-6 concentration in pericardial drainage (PD). This study provides preliminary evidence of a causal relationship between IL-6 and POAF in a novel nonpaced sPOAF mouse model. IL-6 is a crucial prerequisite for eliciting profibrotic properties in cardiac myocytes via the pSTAT3 pathway during the early postoperative period, leading to an increased susceptibility to POAF. Measuring IL-6 in PD could be a new noninvasive biomarker for the clinical prediction of POAF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yisi Liu
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Fangqin Wu
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Ying Wu
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China.
| | | | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, PR China
| | - Ying Deng
- Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
| | - Dianxu Ren
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Haibo Zhao
- Beijing Chao-yang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, PR China
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20
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Implications of SGLT Inhibition on Redox Signalling in Atrial Fibrillation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115937. [PMID: 34073033 PMCID: PMC8198069 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained (atrial) arrhythmia, a considerable global health burden and often associated with heart failure. Perturbations of redox signalling in cardiomyocytes provide a cellular substrate for the manifestation and maintenance of atrial arrhythmias. Several clinical trials have shown that treatment with sodium-glucose linked transporter inhibitors (SGLTi) improves mortality and hospitalisation in heart failure patients independent of the presence of diabetes. Post hoc analysis of the DECLARE-TIMI 58 trial showed a 19% reduction in AF in patients with diabetes mellitus (hazard ratio, 0.81 (95% confidence interval: 0.68-0.95), n = 17.160) upon treatment with SGLTi, regardless of pre-existing AF or heart failure and independent from blood pressure or renal function. Accordingly, ongoing experimental work suggests that SGLTi not only positively impact heart failure but also counteract cellular ROS production in cardiomyocytes, thereby potentially altering atrial remodelling and reducing AF burden. In this article, we review recent studies investigating the effect of SGLTi on cellular processes closely interlinked with redox balance and their potential effects on the onset and progression of AF. Despite promising insight into SGLTi effect on Ca2+ cycling, Na+ balance, inflammatory and fibrotic signalling, mitochondrial function and energy balance and their potential effect on AF, the data are not yet conclusive and the importance of individual pathways for human AF remains to be established. Lastly, an overview of clinical studies investigating SGLTi in the context of AF is provided.
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21
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Aguilar M, Dobrev D, Nattel S. Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation: Features, Mechanisms, and Clinical Management. Card Electrophysiol Clin 2021; 13:123-132. [PMID: 33516390 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccep.2020.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Advances in atrial fibrillation (AF) management, perioperative medicine, and surgical techniques have reignited an interest in postoperative AF (POAF). POAF results from the interaction among subclinical atrial substrate, surgery-induced substrate, and transient postoperative factors. Prophylaxis for POAF after cardiac surgery is well established but the indications for preoperative treatment in noncardiac surgery need further investigation. A rate-control strategy is adequate for most asymptomatic patients with POAF and anticoagulation should be initiated for POAF more than 48 to 72 hours postsurgery. Research is needed to improve evidence-based management of POAF and guide long-term management in view of the substantial late recurrence-rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Aguilar
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, 5000 Belanger Street, Montréal, Québec H1T 1C8, Canada.
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, Essen 45122, Germany
| | - Stanley Nattel
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal, 5000 Belanger Street, Montréal, Québec H1T 1C8, Canada; Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, Essen 45122, Germany; IHU LIRYC and Fondation Bordeaux Université, Bordeaux, France
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22
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Matos JD, Sellke FW, Zimetbaum P. Post-Cardiac Surgery Atrial Fibrillation: Risks, Mechanisms, Prevention, and Management. Card Electrophysiol Clin 2021; 13:133-140. [PMID: 33516391 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccep.2020.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common complication of cardiac surgery (CS). There are numerous risk factors, proposed mechanisms, and financial/clinical implications of post-CS AF (PCSAF). Management involves 2 arms: prevention and treatment. This review highlights and summarizes previous literature on PCSAF and challenges the standard dogma regarding anticoagulation, particularly in the short term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason D Matos
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 185 Pilgrim Road, Baker Building 4th Floor, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Frank W Sellke
- Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Cardiovascular Research Center, Rhode Island Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, 2 Dudley Street, MOC 360, Providence, RI 02905, USA
| | - Peter Zimetbaum
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Smith Center for Cardiovascular Outcomes Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
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23
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Zhou X, Dudley SC. Evidence for Inflammation as a Driver of Atrial Fibrillation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2020; 7:62. [PMID: 32411723 PMCID: PMC7201086 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2020.00062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common types of arrhythmias and increases cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Current therapeutic approaches to AF that focus on rhythm control have high recurrence rates and no life prolongation value. While possible explanations include toxicity of current therapies, another likely explanation may be that current therapies do not address fundamental mechanisms of AF initiation and maintenance. Inflammation has been shown to affect signaling pathways that lead to the development of AF. This paper reviews the roles of inflammation in the occurrence, development, and mechanisms of AF and reviews the therapeutic implications of the correlation of inflammation and AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxu Zhou
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, the Lillehei Heart Institute, University of Minnesota at Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Samuel C Dudley
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, the Lillehei Heart Institute, University of Minnesota at Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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24
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Mavrogeni SI, Markousis-Mavrogenis G, Aggeli C, Tousoulis D, Kitas GD, Kolovou G, Iliodromitis EK, Sfikakis PP. Arrhythmogenic Inflammatory Cardiomyopathy in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases: A Challenge for Cardio-Rheumatology. Diagnostics (Basel) 2019; 9:diagnostics9040217. [PMID: 31835542 PMCID: PMC6963646 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics9040217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ventricular arrhythmia (VA) in autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARD) is an expression of autoimmune inflammatory cardiomyopathy (AIC), caused by structural, electrical, or inflammatory heart disease, and has a serious impact on a patient’s outcome. Myocardial scar of ischemic or nonischemic origin through a re-entry mechanism facilitates the development of VA. Additionally, autoimmune myocardial inflammation, either isolated or as a part of the generalized inflammatory process, also facilitates the development of VA through arrhythmogenic autoantibodies and inflammatory channelopathies. The clinical presentation of AIC varies from oligo-asymptomatic presentation to severe VA and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Both positron emission tomography (PET) and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) can diagnose AIC early and be useful tools for the assessment of therapies during follow-ups. The AIC treatment should be focused on the following: (1) early initiation of cardiac medication, including ACE-inhibitors, b-blockers, and aldosterone antagonists; (2) early initiation of antirheumatic medication, depending on the underlying disease; and (3) potentially implantable cardioverter–defibrillator (ICD) and/or ablation therapy in patients who are at high risk for SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie I. Mavrogeni
- Onassis Cardiac surgery Center, 17674 Athens, Greece; (G.M.-M.); (G.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Constantina Aggeli
- First Cardiac Clinic, Hippokration University Hospital, 17674 Athens, Greece; (C.A.); (D.T.)
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- First Cardiac Clinic, Hippokration University Hospital, 17674 Athens, Greece; (C.A.); (D.T.)
| | - George D. Kitas
- Arthritis Research UK Epidemiology Unit, Manchester University, Manchester M13 9PT, UK;
| | - Genovefa Kolovou
- Onassis Cardiac surgery Center, 17674 Athens, Greece; (G.M.-M.); (G.K.)
| | | | - Petros P. Sfikakis
- First Department of Propeudeutic and Internal medicine, Laikon Hospital, Athens University Medical School, 17674 Athens, Greece;
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Qiu H, Ji C, Liu W, Wu Y, Lu Z, Lin Q, Xue Z, Liu X, Wu H, Jiang W, Zou C. Chronic Kidney Disease Increases Atrial Fibrillation Inducibility: Involvement of Inflammation, Atrial Fibrosis, and Connexins. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1726. [PMID: 30564139 PMCID: PMC6288485 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) causes atrial structural remodeling and subsequently increases the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF). Atrial connexins and inflammatory responses may be involved in this remodeling process. In this study, nephrectomy was used to produce the CKD rat model. Three months post-nephrectomy, cardiac structure, function and AF vulnerability were quantified using echocardiography and electrophysiology methods. The left atrial tissue was tested for quantification of fibrosis and inflammation, and for the distribution and expression of connexin (Cx) 40 and Cx43. An echocardiography showed that CKD resulted in the left atrial enlargement and left ventricular hypertrophy, but had no functional changes. CKD caused a significant increase in the AF inducible rate (91.11% in CKD group vs. 6.67% in sham group, P < 0.001) and the AF duration [107 (0–770) s in CKD vs. 0 (0–70) s in sham, P < 0.001] with prolonged P-wave duration. CKD induced severe interstitial fibrosis, activated the transforming growth factor-β1/Smad2/3 pathway with a massive extracellular matrix deposition of collagen type I and α-smooth muscle actin, and matured the NLR (nucleotide-binding domain leucine-rich repeat-containing receptor) pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome with an inflammatory cascade response. CKD resulted in an increase in non-phosphorylated-Cx43, a decrease in Cx40 and phosphorylated-Cx43, and lateralized the distribution of Cx40 and Cx43 proteins with upregulations of Rac-1, connective tissue growth factor and N-cadherin. These findings implicate the transforming growth factor-β1/Smad2/3, the NLRP3 inflammasome and the connexins as potential mediators of increased AF vulnerability in CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiliang Qiu
- Second Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunlan Ji
- Second Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Nephrology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Second Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuchi Wu
- Department of Nephrology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhaoyu Lu
- Department of Nephrology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qizhan Lin
- Department of Nephrology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zheng Xue
- Department of Cardiology, Guangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xusheng Liu
- Second Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Nephrology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huanlin Wu
- Second Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of internal medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Second Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuan Zou
- Second Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Nephrology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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Lazzerini PE, Capecchi PL, El‐Sherif N, Laghi‐Pasini F, Boutjdir M. Emerging Arrhythmic Risk of Autoimmune and Inflammatory Cardiac Channelopathies. J Am Heart Assoc 2018; 7:e010595. [PMID: 30571503 PMCID: PMC6404431 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.118.010595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nabil El‐Sherif
- Veterans Affairs New York Harbor Healthcare SystemState University of New York Downstate Medical CenterNew YorkNY
| | - Franco Laghi‐Pasini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and NeurosciencesUniversity of SienaItaly
| | - Mohamed Boutjdir
- Veterans Affairs New York Harbor Healthcare SystemState University of New York Downstate Medical CenterNew YorkNY
- New York University School of MedicineNew YorkNY
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Liu Z, Hutt JA, Rajeshkumar B, Azuma Y, Duan KL, Donahue JK. Preclinical efficacy and safety of KCNH2-G628S gene therapy for postoperative atrial fibrillation. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2017; 154:1644-1651.e8. [PMID: 28676183 PMCID: PMC6450389 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2017.05.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common complication occurring after cardiac surgery. Multiple studies have shown significantly increased risks of stroke, myocardial infarction, and death associated with POAF. Current prophylaxis strategies are inadequate to eliminate this problem. We examined the preclinical efficacy and safety of KCNH2-G628S gene transfer to prevent POAF. METHODS Domestic pigs received AdKCNH2-G628S by epicardial atrial gene painting and atrial pacemaker implantation for continuous-burst pacing to induce atrial fibrillation. In an initial dose-ranging evaluation, 3 pigs received 5 × 1010 to 5 × 1011 virus particles. In the formal study, 16 pigs were randomized to 3 groups: 5 × 1011 virus particles of AdKCNH2-G628S with 20% Pluronic P407 in saline, 20% Pluronic P407 in saline with no virus, and saline alone. Animals were followed with daily efficacy and safety evaluations through the period of peak adenovirus-mediated transgene expression. After 14 days, pacing was discontinued, and the animals were followed in sinus rhythm for an additional 14 days to assess any longer-term toxicity. RESULTS In the primary efficacy analysis, the G628S animals exhibited a significant increase in the average time in sinus rhythm compared with the Pluronic control group (59 ± 7% vs 14 ± 6%; P = .009). There was no significant difference between the Pluronic and saline controls (14 ± 6% vs 32 ± 12%; P = .16). Safety assessment showed improved left ventricular function in the G628S animals; otherwise there were no significant differences among the groups in any safety measure. CONCLUSIONS These data indicate that KCNH2-G628S gene therapy can successfully and safely reduce the risk of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Julie A Hutt
- The Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Barur Rajeshkumar
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Mass
| | - Yoshihiro Azuma
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Mass
| | - Kailai L Duan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Mass
| | - J Kevin Donahue
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio; Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Mass.
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29
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Huang Z, Chen XJ, Qian C, Dong Q, Ding D, Wu QF, Li J, Wang HF, Li WH, Xie Q, Cheng X, Zhao N, Du YM, Liao YH. Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3/MicroRNA-21 Feedback Loop Contributes to Atrial Fibrillation by Promoting Atrial Fibrosis in a Rat Sterile Pericarditis Model. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2017; 9:CIRCEP.115.003396. [PMID: 27406600 PMCID: PMC4956678 DOI: 10.1161/circep.115.003396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Background— Postoperative atrial fibrillation is a frequent complication in cardiac surgery. The aberrant activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) contributes to the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation. MicroRNA-21 (miR-21) promotes atrial fibrosis. Recent studies support the existence of reciprocal regulation between STAT3 and miR-21. Here, we test the hypothesis that these 2 molecules might form a feedback loop that contributes to postoperative atrial fibrillation by promoting atrial fibrosis. Methods and Results— A sterile pericarditis model was created using atrial surfaces dusted with sterile talcum powder in rats. The inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, transforming growth factor-β, and tumor necrosis factor-α, along with STAT3 and miR-21, were highly upregulated in sterile pericarditis rats. The inhibition of STAT3 by S3I-201 resulted in miR-21 downregulation, which ameliorated atrial fibrosis and decreased the expression of the fibrosis-related genes, α-smooth muscle actin, collagen-1, and collagen-3; reduced the inhomogeneity of atrial conduction; and attenuated atrial fibrillation vulnerability. Meanwhile, treatment with antagomir-21 decreased STAT3 phosphorylation, alleviated atrial remodeling, abrogated sterile pericarditis–induced inhomogeneous conduction, and prevented atrial fibrillation promotion. The culturing of cardiac fibroblasts with IL-6 resulted in progressively augmented STAT3 phosphorylation and miR-21 levels. S3I-201 blocked IL-6 induced the expression of miR-21 and fibrosis-related genes in addition to cardiac fibroblast proliferation. Transfected antagomir-21 decreased the IL-6–induced cardiac fibroblast activation and STAT3 phosphorylation. The overexpression of miR-21 in cardiac fibroblasts caused the upregulation of STAT3 phosphorylation, enhanced fibrosis-related genes, and increased cell numbers. Conclusions— Our results have uncovered a novel reciprocal loop between STAT3 and miR-21 that is activated after heart surgery and can contribute to atrial fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cheng Qian
- For the author affilations, please see the Appendix
| | - Qian Dong
- For the author affilations, please see the Appendix
| | - Dan Ding
- For the author affilations, please see the Appendix
| | | | - Jing Li
- For the author affilations, please see the Appendix
| | | | - Wei-Hua Li
- For the author affilations, please see the Appendix
| | - Qiang Xie
- For the author affilations, please see the Appendix
| | - Xiang Cheng
- For the author affilations, please see the Appendix
| | - Ning Zhao
- For the author affilations, please see the Appendix.
| | - Yi-Mei Du
- For the author affilations, please see the Appendix.
| | - Yu-Hua Liao
- For the author affilations, please see the Appendix
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Abstract
Postoperative atrial fibrillation (PoAF), a common complication of cardiac surgery, contributes significantly to morbidity, mortality, and increasing healthcare costs. Despite advances in surgical and medical management, the overall incidence of PoAF has not changed significantly, partly because of the limited understanding of mechanisms underlying acute surgery-related factors, such as myocardial injury, inflammation, sympathetic activation, and oxidative stress, which play an important role in the initiation of PoAF, whereas a preexisting atrial substrate appears to be more important in the maintenance of this dysrhythmia. Thus, in a majority of patients, PoAF becomes a manifestation of an underlying arrhythmogenic substrate that is unmasked after acute surgical stress. As such, the ability to identify which patients have this proarrhythmic substrate and are, therefore, at high risk for developing AF postoperatively, is important for the improved selection for prophylactic interventions, closer monitoring for complications, and establishing the probability of AF in the long term. This review highlights the role of the underlying substrate in promoting PoAF, proposed mechanisms, and the potential role of serum biomarkers to identify patients at risk for PoAF.
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Antolič B, Pernat A, Cvijić M, Žižek D, Jan M, Šinkovec M. Radiofrequency catheter ablation versus balloon cryoablation of atrial fibrillation: markers of myocardial damage, inflammation, and thrombogenesis. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2016; 128:480-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s00508-016-1002-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Electrocardiographic abnormalities in patients with pericardial disease — Association of PR segment depression with arrhythmias and clinical signs: Experience of cardiac surgery center. J Electrocardiol 2016; 49:29-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2015.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Shim J, Park JH, Lee JY, Uhm JS, Joung B, Lee MH, Ellinor PT, Pak HN. eNOS3 Genetic Polymorphism Is Related to Post-Ablation Early Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation. Yonsei Med J 2015; 56:1244-50. [PMID: 26256966 PMCID: PMC4541653 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2015.56.5.1244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Revised: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Previous studies have demonstrated an association between eNOS polymorphisms and atrial fibrillation (AF). We sought to determine whether eNOS polymorphisms are associated with AF recurrence after a radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA). MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 500 consecutive patients (56±11 years, 77% male) with paroxysmal (68%) or persistent (32%) AF who underwent RFCA and 500 age, gender-matched controls were genotyped for the eNOS3 single nucleotide polymorphism (rs1799983). AF recurrence was monitored according to 2012 ACC/AHA/ESC guidelines. RESULTS The frequencies of the rs1799983 variant alleles (T) in the case and control group were not significantly different (OR 1.05, 95% CI 0.75-1.46, p=0.798). AF patients with rs1799983 variants were more likely to have coronary artery disease or stroke than those without genetic variant at this gene (31.0% vs. 17.3%, p=0.004). During mean 17 months follow-up, early recurrence of AF (ERAF; within 3 months) and clinical recurrence (CR) of AF were 31.8% and 24.8%, respectively. The rs1799983 variant was associated with higher risk of ERAF (OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.06-2.79, p=0.028), but not with CR. ERAF occurred earlier (11±16 days) in variant group than those without variant allele (20±25 days, p=0.016). A multiple logistic regression analysis showed that presence of the rs1799983 variant (OR 1.75, 95% CI 1.07-2.86, p=0.026) and persistent AF were independent predictors for ERAF after AF ablation. CONCLUSION The rs1799983 variant of the eNOS3 gene was associated with ERAF, but not with CR, after RFCA. eNOS3 gene variants may have a potential role for stratification of post-ablation management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaemin Shim
- Department of Cardiology, Korea University Anam Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Hyung Park
- Department of Cardiology, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea
- Cardiovascular Genome Center, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-Young Lee
- Department of Cardiology, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea
- Cardiovascular Genome Center, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Sun Uhm
- Department of Cardiology, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea
| | - Boyoung Joung
- Department of Cardiology, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea
| | - Moon-Hyoung Lee
- Department of Cardiology, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea
| | - Patrick T Ellinor
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Service & Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hui-Nam Pak
- Cardiovascular Genome Center, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Cardiology, Yonsei University Health System, Seoul, Korea.
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Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia. However, the development of preventative therapies for AF has been disappointing. The infiltration of immune cells and proteins that mediate the inflammatory response in cardiac tissue and circulatory processes is associated with AF. Furthermore, the presence of inflammation in the heart or systemic circulation can predict the onset of AF and recurrence in the general population, as well as in patients after cardiac surgery, cardioversion, and catheter ablation. Mediators of the inflammatory response can alter atrial electrophysiology and structural substrates, thereby leading to increased vulnerability to AF. Inflammation also modulates calcium homeostasis and connexins, which are associated with triggers of AF and heterogeneous atrial conduction. Myolysis, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and the activation of fibrotic pathways via fibroblasts, transforming growth factor-β and matrix metalloproteases are also mediated by inflammatory pathways, which can all contribute to structural remodelling of the atria. The development of thromboembolism, a detrimental complication of AF, is also associated with inflammatory activity. Understanding the complex pathophysiological processes and dynamic changes of AF-associated inflammation might help to identify specific anti-inflammatory strategies for the prevention of AF.
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35
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Kirubakaran S, Chowdhury RA, Hall MCS, Patel PM, Garratt CJ, Peters NS. Fractionation of electrograms is caused by colocalized conduction block and connexin disorganization in the absence of fibrosis as AF becomes persistent in the goat model. Heart Rhythm 2014; 12:397-408. [PMID: 25444850 PMCID: PMC4315883 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2014.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Background Electrogram fractionation and atrial fibrosis are both thought to be pathophysiological hallmarks of evolving persistence of atrial fibrillation (AF), but recent studies in humans have shown that they do not colocalize. The interrelationship and relative roles of fractionation and fibrotic change in AF persistence therefore remain unclear. Objective The aim of the study was to examine the hypothesis that electrogram fractionation with increasing persistence of AF results from localized conduction slowing or block due to changes in atrial connexin distribution in the absence of fibrotic change. Methods Of 12 goats, atrial burst pacemakers maintained AF in 9 goats for up to 3 consecutive 4-week periods. After each 4-week period, 3 goats underwent epicardial mapping studies of the right atrium and examination of the atrial myocardium for immunodetection of connexins 43 and 40 (Cx43 and Cx40) and quantification of connective tissue. Results Despite refractoriness returning to normal in between each 4-week period of AF, there was a cumulative increase in the prevalence of fractionated atrial electrograms during both atrial pacing (control and 1, 2, and 3 months period of AF 0.3%, 1.3% ± 1.5%, 10.6% ± 2%, and 17% ± 5%, respectively; analysis of variance, P < .05) and AF (0.3% ± 0.1%, 2.3% ± 1.2%, 14% ± 2%, and 23% ± 3%; P < .05) caused by colocalized areas of conduction block during both pacing (local conduction velocity <10 cm/s: 0.1% ± 0.1%, 0.3% ± 0.6%, 6.5% ± 3%, and 6.9% ± 4%; P < .05) and AF (1.5% ± 0.5%, 2.7% ± 1.1%, 10.1% ± 1.2%, and 13.6% ± 0.4%; P < .05), associated with an increase in the heterogeneity of Cx40 and lateralization of Cx43 (lateralization scores: 1.75 ± 0.89, 1.44 ± 0.31, 2.85 ± 0.96, and 2.94 ± 0.31; P < .02), but not associated with change in connective tissue content or net conduction velocity. Conclusion Electrogram fractionation with increasing persistence of AF results from slow localized conduction or block associated with changes in atrial connexin distribution in the absence of fibrotic change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senthil Kirubakaran
- Manchester Heart Centre, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, M13 9WL, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Mark C S Hall
- Manchester Heart Centre, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | | | - Clifford J Garratt
- Manchester Heart Centre, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, M13 9WL, United Kingdom
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Galea R, Cardillo MT, Caroli A, Marini MG, Sonnino C, Narducci ML, Biasucci LM. Inflammation and C-reactive protein in atrial fibrillation: cause or effect? Tex Heart Inst J 2014; 41:461-8. [PMID: 25425976 DOI: 10.14503/thij-13-3466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality rates. The incompletely understood pathogenesis of this cardiac dysrhythmia makes it difficult to improve approaches to primary and secondary prevention. Evidence has accumulated in regard to a relationship between inflammation and atrial fibrillation. Investigators have correlated the dysrhythmia with myocarditis, pericardiotomy, and C-reactive protein levels, suggesting that inflammation causes atrial fibrillation or participates in its onset and continuation. Conversely, other investigators suggest that atrial fibrillation induces an inflammatory response. In this review, we summarize and critically discuss the nature and clinical role of inflammation and C-reactive protein in atrial fibrillation.
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Verheule S, Eckstein J, Linz D, Maesen B, Bidar E, Gharaviri A, Schotten U. Role of endo-epicardial dissociation of electrical activity and transmural conduction in the development of persistent atrial fibrillation. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2014; 115:173-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2014.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/19/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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38
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Jennings MM, Donahue JK. Connexin Remodeling Contributes to Atrial Fibrillation. J Atr Fibrillation 2013; 6:839. [PMID: 28496873 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2013] [Revised: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 07/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation significantly contributes to mortality and morbidity through increased risk of stroke, heart failure and myocardial infarction. Investigations of mechanisms responsible for the development and maintenance of atrial fibrillation have highlighted the importance of gap junctional remodeling. Connexins 40 and 43, the major atrial gap junctional proteins, undergo considerable alterations in expression and localization in atrial fibrillation, creating an environment conducive to sustained reentry. Atrial fibrillation is initiated and/or maintained in this reentrant substrate. This review will focus on connexin remodeling in the context of underlying mechanism and possible therapeutic target for atrial fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - J Kevin Donahue
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, MetroHealth Campus
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39
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Bidar E, Bramer S, Maesen B, Maessen JG, Schotten U. Post-operative Atrial Fibrillation - Pathophysiology, Treatment and Prevention. J Atr Fibrillation 2013; 5:781. [PMID: 28496829 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2012] [Revised: 02/13/2013] [Accepted: 02/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation occurring after cardiac surgery has been the subject of intensive research over the past decades. However, the incidence remains high, despite numerous preventive and treatment strategies. In addition, several reports show that the impact of post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is high. It is an independent risk factor for mortality after several years. These findings make clear that the pathophysiology of POAF is not fully understood and POAF-associated risks to some extent might be underestimated. On the one hand, excessive triggers during the acute post operative phase after cardiac surgery might initiate AF even in atria with low vulnerability. On the other hand, many patients undergoing surgery have an atrial substrate at the time of operation promoting AF not only in the post-operative phase but also in the days and weeks thereafter. Progress in our understanding of the AF mechanisms in general has provided valuable insights into processes involved in atrial structural remodeling due to advanced age, hypertension, obesity, and congestive heart failure. These patient characteristics strongly contribute to cardiac disease, predict POAF and likely have an impact on the risk of thrombus formation in the weeks and months after cardiac surgery. For a better understanding of the mechanisms involved, it is important to not only recognize the occurrence of POAF by continuous monitoring after surgery, but also to identity the extent of atrial vulnerability to AF in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Bidar
- Dept. Physiology and electrophysiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre.,Dept. Cardiothoracic surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre
| | - S Bramer
- Dept. Cardiothoracic surgery, OLVG hospital, Amsterdam
| | - B Maesen
- Dept. Physiology and electrophysiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre.,Dept. Cardiothoracic surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre
| | - J G Maessen
- Dept. Physiology and electrophysiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre
| | - U Schotten
- Dept. Cardiothoracic surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre
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40
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Shim J, Park JH, Kim JY, Kim SK, Joung B, Lee MH, Kim YH, Pak HN. Impaired mobilization of bone marrow derived CD34 positive mononuclear cells is related to the recurrence of atrial fibrillation after radiofrequency catheter ablation. Int J Cardiol 2013; 162:179-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2011.05.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2010] [Revised: 03/15/2011] [Accepted: 05/13/2011] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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41
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Marcus GM, Hsu JC. Colchicine After Pulmonary Vein Isolation to Prevent the Early Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation. J Am Coll Cardiol 2012; 60:1797-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2012.07.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2012] [Accepted: 07/31/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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42
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Bang CN, Greve AM, Abdulla J, Køber L, Gislason GH, Wachtell K. The preventive effect of statin therapy on new-onset and recurrent atrial fibrillation in patients not undergoing invasive cardiac interventions: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Cardiol 2012; 167:624-30. [PMID: 22999824 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2012.08.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2012] [Accepted: 08/31/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous meta-analyses suggest that pre-procedural use of statin therapy may reduce atrial fibrillation (AF) following invasive cardiac interventions (coronary artery by-pass grafting and percutaneous coronary intervention). However, the current evidence on the benefit of statins unrelated to invasive cardiac interventions has not been clarified systematically. METHODS Through a systematic literature search, trials examining the effect of statin therapy on AF were selected. Trials using statins before any percutaneous or surgical cardiac interventions were excluded. RESULTS The search identified 11 randomized and 16 observational eligible studies, totaling 106,640 patients receiving statin therapy and 129,305 serving as controls. Fourteen studies investigated the effect of statins on new-onset AF, 13 studies investigated the effect of statins on recurrent AF and one in both new-onset and recurrent AF. In the statin versus control group the mean age was 60.7 ± 8.3 versus 68.6 ± 6.2 years and females comprised 8.4% versus 10.3%. Statin therapy was associated with significant reduction of AF (Risk ratio (RR): 0.81 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.80-0.83], p<0.001) combining all studies. Assessing exclusively randomized trials, statin therapy showed no significant risk reduction (RR: 0.97 [95%CI: 0.90-1.05], p=0.509), heterogeneity p>0.05. Assessing exclusively observational studies the risk reduction of new-onset AF was 12% (RR: 0.88 [95%CI: 0.85-0.91], p<0.001) and recurrent AF 15% (RR: 0.85 [95%CI: 0.80-0.90], p<0.001), heterogeneity p<0.001. CONCLUSION The hitherto published randomized clinical trials do not support a beneficial effect of statins on AF in patients not undergoing invasive cardiac interventions. This is in contrast to the results of observational and interventional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casper N Bang
- Department of Cardiology, The Heart Center, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Camm AJ, Al-Khatib SM, Calkins H, Halperin JL, Kirchhof P, Lip GY, Nattel S, Ruskin J, Banerjee A, Blendea D, Guasch E, Needleman M, Savelieva I, Viles-Gonzalez J, Williams ES. A proposal for new clinical concepts in the management of atrial fibrillation. Am Heart J 2012; 164:292-302.e1. [PMID: 22980294 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2012.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2012] [Accepted: 05/25/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) represents a growing public health burden. It is a complex condition, involving a number of etiologic factors and arrhythmia mechanisms associated with atrial remodeling. Greater understanding of these mechanisms may improve therapy. Current AF classification schemes are limited by simplicity. A number of risk factors predict AF onset, and additional factors are being evaluated in registry studies. Doppler imaging and Holter monitoring in high-risk patients to predict the onset of AF and progression from paroxysmal to permanent AF are promising. There is a need for a novel multifactorial classification model encompassing AF duration, symptoms, markers of atrial remodeling, and a risk score for AF onset, persistence, progression, and complications to guide treatment and prognostication. Preventing AF onset with upstream therapy is of great interest, but current data are conflicting. More study is needed to optimize rhythm control with antiarrhythmic drugs and targeted ablation to specific patient populations at an earlier stage. There is little consensus on optimal rate control and no information relating to optimum rate control in specific populations. This article highlights new concepts in AF and directions for future research.
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Imazio M. Primary Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation where are we in 2012? J Atr Fibrillation 2012; 5:608. [PMID: 28496763 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2012] [Revised: 06/04/2012] [Accepted: 06/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Drugs to alter or delay myocardial remodelling associated with heart failure, hypertension, or inflammation in the post-operative setting, may prevent the development of atrial fibrillation. Current experimental and clinical evidences support specific treatments for defined patient population (i.e. ACE-inhibitors and ARB for chronic heart failure and hypertension expecially with LV hypertrophy; statins, corticosteroids and possibly colchicine after cardiac surgery).
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Imazio
- Cardiology Department, Maria Vittoria Hospital, Torino, Italy
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Friedrichs K, Baldus S, Klinke A. Fibrosis in Atrial Fibrillation - Role of Reactive Species and MPO. Front Physiol 2012; 3:214. [PMID: 22723783 PMCID: PMC3379725 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2012.00214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2012] [Accepted: 05/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrosis with enhanced turnover and deposition of matrix proteins leads to inhomogeneous atrial electrical conduction and gives rise to electrical reentry circuits resulting in atrial fibrillation. The multifactorial pathogenesis of atrial fibrosis involves resident cardiac cells as well as infiltrating leukocytes, both generating and sequestering matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), a key enzyme family involved in fibrosis. A growing body of evidence points toward an important role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the release and activation of pro-MMPs and the stimulation of pro-fibrotic cascades. Myeloperoxidase (MPO), a bactericidal enzyme released from activated polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) is not only associated with a variety of cardiovascular diseases, but has also been shown to be mechanistically linked to atrial fibrosis and fibrillation. MPO catalyzes the generation of reactive species like hypochlorous acid, which affect intracellular signaling cascades in various cells and advance activation of pro-MMPs and deposition of atrial collagen resulting in atrial arrhythmias. Thus, inflammatory mechanisms effectively promote atrial structural remodeling and importantly contribute to the initiation and perpetuation of atrial fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Friedrichs
- Department of Electrophysiology, Cardiovascular Research Center, University Heart Center Hamburg Hamburg, Germany
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Igarashi T, Finet JE, Takeuchi A, Fujino Y, Strom M, Greener ID, Rosenbaum DS, Donahue JK. Connexin gene transfer preserves conduction velocity and prevents atrial fibrillation. Circulation 2012; 125:216-25. [PMID: 22158756 PMCID: PMC3260348 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.111.053272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several lines of evidence have suggested that maintenance of atrial fibrillation (AF) depends on reentrant mechanisms. Maintenance of reentry necessitates a sufficiently short refractory period and/or delayed conduction, and AF has been associated with both alterations. Fibrosis, cellular dysfunction, and gap junction protein alterations occur in AF and cause conduction delay. We performed this study to test the hypothesis that gap junction protein overexpression would improve conduction and prevent AF. METHODS AND RESULTS Thirty Yorkshire swine were randomized into 2 groups (sinus rhythm and AF), and each group into 3 subgroups: sham-operated control, gene therapy with adenovirus expressing connexin (Cx) 40, and gene therapy with adenovirus expressing Cx43 (n=5 per subgroup). All animals had epicardial gene painting; the AF group had burst atrial pacing. All animals underwent terminal study 7 days after gene transfer. Sinus rhythm animals had strong transgene expression but no atrial conduction changes. In AF animals, controls had reduced and lateralized Cx43 expression, and Cx43 gene transfer restored expression and cellular location to sinus rhythm control levels. In the AF group, both Cx40 and Cx43 gene transfer improved conduction and reduced AF relative to controls. CONCLUSIONS Connexin gene therapy preserved atrial conduction and prevented AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomonori Igarashi
- Heart and Vascular Research Center, MetroHealth Campus, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Van Wagoner DR. Colchicine for the prevention of postoperative atrial fibrillation: a new indication for a very old drug? Circulation 2012; 124:2281-2. [PMID: 22105193 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.111.057075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Goudis CA, Kallergis EM, Vardas PE. Extracellular matrix alterations in the atria: insights into the mechanisms and perpetuation of atrial fibrillation. Europace 2012; 14:623-30. [PMID: 22237583 DOI: 10.1093/europace/eur398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia in clinical practice and is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Atrial fibrosis, a detrimental process that causes imbalance in extracellular matrix deposition and degradation, has been implicated as a substrate for atrial fibrillation, but the precise mechanisms of structural remodelling and the relationship between atrial fibrosis and atrial fibrillation are not completely understood. A large number of experimental and clinical studies have shed light on the mechanisms of atrial fibrosis at the molecular and cellular level, including interactions between matrix metalloproteinases and their endogenous tissue inhibitors, and profibrotic signals through specific molecules and mediators such as angiotensin II, transforming growth factor-β1, connective tissue growth factor, and platelet-derived growth factor. This review focuses on the mechanisms of atrial fibrosis and highlights the relationship between atrial fibrosis and atrial fibrillation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos A Goudis
- Department of Cardiology, University General Hospital, Heraklion, Crete, Voutes 71110, Greece
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Friedrichs K, Klinke A, Baldus S. Inflammatory pathways underlying atrial fibrillation. Trends Mol Med 2011; 17:556-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2011.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2011] [Revised: 05/09/2011] [Accepted: 05/20/2011] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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