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Atrial fibrillation: pathophysiology, genetic and epigenetic mechanisms

Manlio Vinciguerra1,2, Dobromir Dobrev3,4,5, Stanley Nattel3,4,6,7,8

  • 1Department of Translational Stem Cell Biology, Research Institute, Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria.

The Lancet Regional Health. Europe
|February 16, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm disorder. Research reveals genetic and epigenetic factors, including ethnic variations, contribute to AF development and its complex management.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Genetics
  • Epigenetics

Background:

  • Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia, affecting up to 1% of the population, with prevalence increasing significantly with age.
  • AF management is complex, influenced by genetic and epigenetic factors, geographical variations, and ethnicity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on genetic and epigenetic networks associated with AF.
  • To explore ethnic differences in AF risk and genetic associations.
  • To discuss the interplay between genetic regulation and AF pathophysiology.

Main Methods:

  • Review of Genome Wide Association Studies (GWAS) identifying AF-related genetic loci.
  • Analysis of epigenetic mechanisms including non-coding RNAs, DNA methylation, and histone modifications.
  • Examination of existing literature on ethnic variations in AF genetics.

Main Results:

  • Over 100 genetic loci linked to AF have been identified, implicating inflammation, electrical, and structural abnormalities.
  • European ancestry shows an elevated risk for AF.
  • Epigenetic modifications play a role in reshaping arrhythmia processes.

Conclusions:

  • Genetic and epigenetic factors are crucial in AF development.
  • Understanding these networks, including ethnic disparities, is vital for advancing AF management.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the connections between genetic regulation and AF pathophysiology.

Keywords:
Atrial fibrillationEpigeneticsGeneticsMechanisms

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