[Genetic features of atrial fibrillation]

Etiology of atrial fibrillation remains largely unknown. Molecular genetics is a powerful tool that may help to identify underlying mechanisms of the arrhythmia. As a matter of fact, a major step forward was the recent identification of the KCNQ1 gene coding a subunit of a potassium channel in IKS current as responsible for idiopathic atrial fibrillation in a familial autosomal dominant form. The KCNQ1 gain-of-function mutation may induce a shortening in action potential and in effective refractory periods leading to the initiation and persistence of atrial fibrillation. In the multifactorial forms of the disease, by far the most frequent, susceptibility genes and modifier genes are also currently being identified. This better understanding of the disease leads to new perspectives, particularly for therapeutists, and would enable them to work with more interest.