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Updated: Aug 27, 2025
High-Resolution Endocardial and Epicardial Optical Mapping in a Sheep Model of Stretch-Induced Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: July 29, 2011
Mouse models of spontaneous atrial fibrillation
Joshua A Keefe1,2, Mohit M Hulsurkar1,2, Svetlana Reilly3
1Cardiovascular Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, BCM335, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
Abstract:
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in adults, with a prevalence increasing with age. Current clinical management of AF is focused on tertiary prevention (i.e., treating the symptoms and sequelae) rather than addressing the underlying molecular pathophysiology. Robust animal models of AF, particularly those that do not require supraphysiologic stimuli to induce AF (i.e., showing spontaneous AF), enable studies that can uncover the underlying mechanisms of AF. Several mouse models of AF have been described to exhibit spontaneous AF, but pathophysiologic drivers of AF differ among models. Here, we describe relevant AF mechanisms and provide an overview of large and small animal models of AF. We then provide an in-depth review of the spontaneous mouse models of AF, highlighting the relevant AF mechanisms for each model.
Insights
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm disorder. This study reviews animal models, especially spontaneous mouse models, to understand AF
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Translational Medicine
- Animal Models
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent adult arrhythmia, increasing with age.
- Current AF management primarily focuses on tertiary prevention, not underlying molecular causes.
- Understanding AF pathophysiology requires robust animal models that exhibit spontaneous AF.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing large and small animal models of AF.
- To provide an in-depth analysis of spontaneous mouse models of AF.
- To highlight the specific AF mechanisms relevant to each model.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of AF mechanisms and animal models.
- Categorization of animal models based on AF induction (spontaneous vs. induced).
- Detailed examination of spontaneous mouse models and their associated pathophysiologies.
Main Results:
- Overview of various large and small animal models for AF research.
- Identification of multiple spontaneous mouse models of AF.
- Comparison of differing pathophysiologic drivers across distinct mouse models.
Conclusions:
- Spontaneous mouse models are crucial for elucidating AF mechanisms.
- Animal models offer valuable insights into the molecular underpinnings of AF.
- Further research using these models can advance AF prevention and treatment strategies.
