Functional genomics and epigenomics of atrial fibrillation. (August 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Victorino, Jesus; Alvarez-Franco, Alba; Manzanares, Miguel
• Is Part Of: Journal of molecular and cellular cardiology. Volume 157(2021)
• Page Start: 45
• Page End: 55
• Publication Date: 2021-08
• Subjects: Atrial fibrillation -- Epigenomics -- Functional genomics -- Transcriptomics -- GWAS; Cardiology -- Periodicals; Heart Diseases -- Periodicals; Molecular Biology -- Periodicals; Cardiologie -- Périodiques; Cardiology; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616.12
• DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2021.04.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-2828

Abstract

Abstract: Atrial fibrillation is a progressive cardiac arrhythmia that increases the risk of hospitalization and adverse cardiovascular events. Despite years of study, we still do not have a full comprehension of the molecular mechanism responsible for the disease. The recent implementation of large-scale approaches in both patient samples, population studies and animal models has helped us to broaden our knowledge on the molecular drivers responsible for AF and on the mechanisms behind disease progression. Understanding genomic and epigenomic changes that take place during chronification of AF will prove essential to design novel treatments leading to improved patient care. Graphical Abstract: Unlabelled Image Highlights: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a progressive and chronic cardiac arrhythmia, with a clear hereditary component. Familial, monogenic cases represent a very small proportion of AF incidence. GWAS AF-associated regions are mostly located in non-coding genomic regions, most probably affecting regulatory elements. Epigenomic changes to these are expected to be a fundamental mechanism in AF progression. Large animal models are proving to be invaluable in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying AF.