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Nonthrombogenic Roles of the Left Atrial Appendage: JACC Review Topic of the Week

Mohamad Alkhouli1, Luigi Di Biase2, Andrea Natale3

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic School of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.

Journal of the American College of Cardiology
|March 15, 2023
PubMed

Insights

The left atrial appendage (LAA) is known for stroke risk in atrial fibrillation. Emerging research reveals novel, non-thrombogenic functions of the LAA with potential therapeutic benefits.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Vascular Biology
  • Medical Research

Background:

  • The left atrial appendage (LAA) is a primary source of cardioembolism in atrial fibrillation patients.
  • Research has predominantly focused on the LAA's role in thrombosis and stroke prevention via exclusion.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a concise overview of LAA anatomy.
  • To summarize emerging data on the non-thrombogenic roles of the LAA.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies.
  • Synthesis of anatomical and functional data regarding the LAA.

Main Results:

  • The LAA possesses several functions beyond its thrombogenic potential.
  • Emerging data highlights novel non-thrombogenic roles of the LAA.

Conclusions:

  • The LAA has multifaceted roles that extend beyond cardioembolism.
  • Understanding these novel functions may lead to new therapeutic strategies in cardiovascular medicine.

Keywords:
atrial fibrillationhemodynamicsleft atrial appendageprogenitor cells

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