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Wiedmann F, Schmidt C. Novel drug therapies for atrial fibrillation. Nat Rev Cardiol 2024; 21:275-276. [PMID: 38418746 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-024-01004-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Felix Wiedmann
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- HCR, Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Constanze Schmidt
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Heidelberg/Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- HCR, Heidelberg Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Lazzerini PE, Cupelli M, Cartocci A, Bertolozzi I, Salvini V, Accioli R, Salvadori F, Marzotti T, Verrengia D, Cevenini G, Bisogno S, Bicchi M, Donati G, Bernardini S, Laghi‐Pasini F, Acampa M, Capecchi PL, El‐Sherif N, Boutjdir M. Elevated Interleukin-6 Levels Are Associated With an Increased Risk of QTc Interval Prolongation in a Large Cohort of US Veterans. J Am Heart Assoc 2024; 13:e032071. [PMID: 38348789 PMCID: PMC11010073 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.032071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although accumulating data indicate that IL-6 (interleukin-6) can promote heart rate-corrected QT interval (QTc) prolongation via direct and indirect effects on cardiac electrophysiology, current evidence comes from basic investigations and small clinical studies only. Therefore, IL-6 is still largely ignored in the clinical management of long-QT syndrome and related arrhythmias. The aim of this study was to estimate the risk of QTc prolongation associated with elevated IL-6 levels in a large population of unselected subjects. METHODS AND RESULTS An observational study using the Veterans Affairs Informatics and Computing Infrastructure was performed. Participants were US veterans who had an ECG and were tested for IL-6. Descriptive statistics and univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to study the relationship between IL-6 and QTc prolongation risk. Study population comprised 1085 individuals, 306 showing normal (<5 pg/mL), 376 moderately high (5-25 pg/mL), and 403 high (>25 pg/mL) IL-6 levels. Subjects with elevated IL-6 showed a concentration-dependent increase in the prevalence of QTc prolongation, and those presenting with QTc prolongation exhibited higher circulating IL-6 levels. Stepwise multivariate regression analyses demonstrated that increased IL-6 level was significantly associated with a risk of QTc prolongation up to 2 times the odds of the reference category of QTc (e.g. QTc >470 ms men/480 ms women ms: odds ratio, 2.28 [95% CI, 1.12-4.50] for IL-6 >25 pg/mL) regardless of the underlying cause. Specifically, the mean QTc increase observed in the presence of elevated IL-6 was quantitatively comparable (IL-6 >25 pg/mL:+6.7 ms) to that of major recognized QT-prolonging risk factors, such as hypokalemia and history of myocardial infarction. CONCLUSIONS Our data provide evidence that a high circulating IL-6 level is a robust risk factor for QTc prolongation in a large cohort of US veterans, supporting a potentially important arrhythmogenic role for this cytokine in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Cupelli
- VA New York Harbor Healthcare SystemNew YorkNYUSA
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences UniversityNew YorkNYUSA
| | | | - Iacopo Bertolozzi
- Cardiology Intensive Therapy Unit, Department of Internal MedicineNuovo Ospedale San Giovanni di Dio (former Cardiology Intensive Therapy Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital of Carrara, Carrara, Italy)FlorenceItaly
| | - Viola Salvini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and NeurosciencesUniversity of SienaItaly
| | - Riccardo Accioli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and NeurosciencesUniversity of SienaItaly
| | - Fabio Salvadori
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and NeurosciencesUniversity of SienaItaly
| | - Tommaso Marzotti
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and NeurosciencesUniversity of SienaItaly
| | - Decoroso Verrengia
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and NeurosciencesUniversity of SienaItaly
| | | | - Stefania Bisogno
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and NeurosciencesUniversity of SienaItaly
| | - Maurizio Bicchi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and NeurosciencesUniversity of SienaItaly
| | - Giovanni Donati
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and NeurosciencesUniversity of SienaItaly
| | - Sciaila Bernardini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and NeurosciencesUniversity of SienaItaly
| | - Franco Laghi‐Pasini
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and NeurosciencesUniversity of SienaItaly
| | - Maurizio Acampa
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and NeurosciencesUniversity of SienaItaly
| | | | - Nabil El‐Sherif
- VA New York Harbor Healthcare SystemNew YorkNYUSA
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences UniversityNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Mohamed Boutjdir
- VA New York Harbor Healthcare SystemNew YorkNYUSA
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences UniversityNew YorkNYUSA
- NYU Grossman School of MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
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Schreiber T, Grune J, Landmesser U, Attanasio P. Detection and modification of biomarkers of inflammation determining successful rhythm control in patients with atrial fibrillation. Biomarkers 2023; 28:681-691. [PMID: 37962292 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2023.2284122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multiple pathophysiological mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). Growing evidence suggests that both local and systemic inflammation plays a key role even in early stages and its progression towards persisting and permanent AF. Rhythm control therapy via pulmonary vein isolation or cardioversion is the cornerstone of AF therapy for most symptomatic patients, yet arrhythmia recurrence after treatment is still common, especially in patients with persistent AF. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge of biomarkers of inflammation with prognostic value in patients with atrial fibrillation as well as anti-inflammatory medication with potential benefits after rhythm control therapy. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Both onset of AF, progression and arrhythmia recurrence after rhythm control therapy can be caused by local and systemic inflammation. Various inflammatory biomarkers have been established to predict treatment success. Furthermore, additional anti-inflammatory therapy may significantly improve success rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Schreiber
- Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Klinik für Kardiologie, Angiologie und Intensivmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jana Grune
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Germany
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulf Landmesser
- Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Klinik für Kardiologie, Angiologie und Intensivmedizin, Berlin, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Philipp Attanasio
- Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Klinik für Kardiologie, Angiologie und Intensivmedizin, Berlin, Germany
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4
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Xing Y, Yan L, Li X, Xu Z, Wu X, Gao H, Chen Y, Ma X, Liu J, Zhang J. The relationship between atrial fibrillation and NLRP3 inflammasome: a gut microbiota perspective. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1273524. [PMID: 38077349 PMCID: PMC10703043 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1273524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common clinical arrhythmia whose pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated, and the inflammatory response plays an important role in the development of AF. The inflammasome is an important component of innate immunity and is involved in a variety of pathophysiologic processes. The NLRP3 inflammasome is by far the best studied and validated inflammasome that recognizes multiple pathogens through pattern recognition receptors of innate immunity and mediates inflammatory responses through activation of Caspase-1. Several studies have shown that NLRP3 inflammasome activation contributes to the onset and development of AF. Ecological dysregulation of the gut microbiota has been associated with the development of AF, and some evidence suggests that gut microbiota components, functional byproducts, or metabolites may induce or exacerbate the development of AF by directly or indirectly modulating the NLRP3 inflammasome. In this review, we report on the interconnection of NLRP3 inflammasomes and gut microbiota and whether this association is related to the onset and persistence of AF. We discuss the potential value of pharmacological and dietary induction in the management of AF in the context of the association between the NLRP3 inflammasome and gut microbiota. It is hoped that this review will lead to new therapeutic targets for the future management of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaxuan Xing
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Longmei Yan
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoya Li
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhijie Xu
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xianyu Wu
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Huirong Gao
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yiduo Chen
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Graduate School, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Ma
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangang Liu
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jingchun Zhang
- Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Cardiology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Saljic A, Heijman J, Dobrev D. Recent Advances in Antiarrhythmic Drug Therapy. Drugs 2023; 83:1147-1160. [PMID: 37540446 PMCID: PMC10462572 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01923-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias remain a common cause of death and disability. Antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) and antiarrhythmic agents remain a cornerstone of current cardiac arrhythmia management, despite moderate efficacy and the potential for significant adverse proarrhythmic effects. Due to conceptual, regulatory and financial considerations, the number of novel antiarrhythmic targets and agents in the development pipeline has decreased substantially during the last few decades. However, several promising candidates remain and there are exciting developments in repurposing and reformulating already existing drugs for indications related to cardiac arrhythmias. This review discusses the key conceptual considerations for the development of new antiarrhythmic agents, summarizes new compounds and formulations currently in clinical development for rhythm control of atrial fibrillation, and highlights the potential for drug repurposing. Finally, future directions in AAD development are discussed. Together with an ever-increasing understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac arrhythmias, these components support a cautiously optimistic outlook towards improved pharmacological treatment opportunities for patients suffering from cardiac arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnela Saljic
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jordi Heijman
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dobromir Dobrev
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Montréal Heart Institute and University de Montréal, Medicine and Research Center, Montréal, Canada.
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA.
- , Hufelandstrasse 55, 45122, Essen, Germany.
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Lazzerini PE, Abbate A, Boutjdir M, Capecchi PL. Fir(e)ing the Rhythm. JACC Basic Transl Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2022.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
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Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a highly prevalent arrhythmia that causes high morbidity and mortality. However, the underlying mechanism of AF has not been fully elucidated. Recent research has suggested that, during AF, the immune system changes considerably and interacts with the environment and cells involved in the initiation and maintenance of AF. This may provide a new direction for research and therapeutic strategies for AF. In this review, we elaborate the concept of immune remodeling based on available data in AF. Then, we highlight the complex relationships between immune remodeling and atrial electrical, structural and neural remodeling while also pointing out some research gaps in these field. Finally, we discuss several potential immunomodulatory treatments for AF. Although the heterogeneity of existing evidence makes it ambiguous to extrapolate immunomodulatory treatments for AF into the clinical practice, immune remodeling is still an evolving concept in AF pathophysiology and further studies within this field are likely to provide effective therapies for AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajun Yao
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mei Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dishiwen Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qingyan Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cardiology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Qingyan Zhao,
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8
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Saljic A, Heijman J, Dobrev D. Emerging Antiarrhythmic Drugs for Atrial Fibrillation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:4096. [PMID: 35456912 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common cardiac arrhythmia worldwide, is driven by complex mechanisms that differ between subgroups of patients. This complexity is apparent from the different forms in which AF presents itself (post-operative, paroxysmal and persistent), each with heterogeneous patterns and variable progression. Our current understanding of the mechanisms responsible for initiation, maintenance and progression of the different forms of AF has increased significantly in recent years. Nevertheless, antiarrhythmic drugs for the management of AF have not been developed based on the underlying arrhythmia mechanisms and none of the currently used drugs were specifically developed to target AF. With the increased knowledge on the mechanisms underlying different forms of AF, new opportunities for developing more effective and safer AF therapies are emerging. In this review, we provide an overview of potential novel antiarrhythmic approaches based on the underlying mechanisms of AF, focusing both on the development of novel antiarrhythmic agents and on the possibility of repurposing already marketed drugs. In addition, we discuss the opportunity of targeting some of the key players involved in the underlying AF mechanisms, such as ryanodine receptor type-2 (RyR2) channels and atrial-selective K+-currents (IK2P and ISK) for antiarrhythmic therapy. In addition, we highlight the opportunities for targeting components of inflammatory signaling (e.g., the NLRP3-inflammasome) and upstream mechanisms targeting fibroblast function to prevent structural remodeling and progression of AF. Finally, we critically appraise emerging antiarrhythmic drug principles and future directions for antiarrhythmic drug development, as well as their potential for improving AF management.
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9
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Wang Q, Richardson TG, Sanderson E, Tudball MJ, Ala-Korpela M, Davey Smith G, Holmes MV. A phenome-wide bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis of atrial fibrillation. Int J Epidemiol 2022; 51:1153-1166. [PMID: 35292824 PMCID: PMC9365635 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyac041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasing with an aging worldwide population, yet a comprehensive understanding of its causes and consequences remains limited. We aim to assess the causes and consequences of AF via a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Methods We used publicly available genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary data, centralized and harmonized by an open GWAS database. We assessed the genetically predicted effects of 5048 exposures on risk of AF, and the genetically predicted effects of genetic liability to AF, on 10 308 outcomes via two-sample MR analysis. Multivariable MR analysis was further conducted to explore the comparative roles of identified risk factors. Results MR analysis suggested that 55 out of 5048 exposure traits, including four proteins, play a causal role in AF (P <1e-5 allowing for multiple comparisons). Multivariable analysis suggested that higher body mass index, height and systolic blood pressure as well as genetic liability to coronary artery diseases independently cause AF. Three out of the four proteins (DUSP13, TNFSF12 and IL6R) had a drug prioritizing score for atrial fibrillation of 0.26, 0.38 and 0.88, respectively (values closer to 1 indicating stronger evidence of the protein as a potential drug target). Genetic liability to AF was linked to a higher risk of cardio-embolic ischaemic stroke. Conclusions Our results suggest body mass index, height, systolic blood pressure and genetic liability to coronary artery disease are independent causal risk factors for AF. Several proteins, including DUSP13, IL-6R and TNFSF12, may have therapeutic potential for AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Wang
- Clinical Trial Service Unit & Epidemiological Studies Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Computational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu and Biocenter Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Tom G Richardson
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Novo Nordisk Research Centre Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Eleanor Sanderson
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Matthew J Tudball
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Mika Ala-Korpela
- Computational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu and Biocenter Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,NMR Metabolomics Laboratory, School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - George Davey Smith
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Michael V Holmes
- Clinical Trial Service Unit & Epidemiological Studies Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,Medical Research Council Population Health Research Unit at the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,National Institute for Health Research, Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospital, Oxford, UK
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Armbruster AL, Campbell KB, Kahanda MG, Cuculich PS. The role of inflammation in the pathogenesis and treatment of arrhythmias. Pharmacotherapy 2022; 42:250-262. [PMID: 35098555 DOI: 10.1002/phar.2663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of arrhythmias is complex and multifactorial. The role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias (VA) has been explored. However, developing successful pharmacotherapy regimens based on those pathways has proven more of a challenge. This narrative review provides an overview of five common arrhythmias impacted by inflammation, including atrial fibrillation (AF), myocardial infarction, arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, cardiac sarcoidosis, and QT prolongation, and the potential role for anti-inflammatory therapy in their management. We identified arrhythmias and arrhythmogenic disease states with the most evidence linking pathogenesis to inflammation and conducted comprehensive searches of United States National Library of Medicine MEDLINE® and PubMed databases. Although a variety of agents have been studied for the management of AF, primarily in an effort to reduce postoperative AF following cardiac surgery, no standard anti-inflammatory agents are used in clinical practice at this time. Although inflammation following myocardial infarction may contribute to the development of VA, there is no clear benefit with the use of anti-inflammatory agents at this time. Similarly, although inflammation is clearly linked to the development of arrhythmias in arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, data demonstrating a benefit with anti-inflammatory agents are limited. Cardiac sarcoidosis, an infiltrative disease eliciting an immune response, is primarily treated by immunosuppressive therapy and steroids, despite a lack of primary literature to support such regimens. In this case, anti-inflammatory agents are frequently used in clinical practice. The pathophysiology of arrhythmias is complex, and inflammation likely plays a role in both onset and duration, however, for most arrhythmias the role of pharmacotherapy targeting inflammation remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia L Armbruster
- St. Louis College of Pharmacy, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | | | - Milan G Kahanda
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Phillip S Cuculich
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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11
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Papathanasiou KA, Giotaki SG, Vrachatis DA, Siasos G, Lambadiari V, Iliodromitis KE, Kossyvakis C, Kaoukis A, Raisakis K, Deftereos G, Papaioannou TG, Giannopoulos G, Avramides D, Deftereos SG. Molecular Insights in Atrial Fibrillation Pathogenesis and Therapeutics: A Narrative Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11091584. [PMID: 34573926 PMCID: PMC8470040 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11091584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) is bound to increase globally in the following years, affecting the quality of life of millions of people, increasing mortality and morbidity, and beleaguering health care systems. Increasingly effective therapeutic options against AF are the constantly evolving electroanatomic substrate mapping systems of the left atrium (LA) and ablation catheter technologies. Yet, a prerequisite for better long-term success rates is the understanding of AF pathogenesis and maintenance. LA electrical and anatomical remodeling remains in the epicenter of current research for novel diagnostic and treatment modalities. On a molecular level, electrical remodeling lies on impaired calcium handling, enhanced inwardly rectifying potassium currents, and gap junction perturbations. In addition, a wide array of profibrotic stimuli activates fibroblast to an increased extracellular matrix turnover via various intermediaries. Concomitant dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system and the humoral function of increased epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) are established mediators in the pathophysiology of AF. Local atrial lymphomononuclear cells infiltrate and increased inflammasome activity accelerate and perpetuate arrhythmia substrate. Finally, impaired intracellular protein metabolism, excessive oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction deplete atrial cardiomyocyte ATP and promote arrhythmogenesis. These overlapping cellular and molecular alterations hinder us from distinguishing the cause from the effect in AF pathogenesis. Yet, a plethora of therapeutic modalities target these molecular perturbations and hold promise in combating the AF burden. Namely, atrial selective ion channel inhibitors, AF gene therapy, anti-fibrotic agents, AF drug repurposing, immunomodulators, and indirect cardiac neuromodulation are discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos A. Papathanasiou
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.A.P.); (S.G.G.); (D.A.V.); (G.S.); (V.L.); (T.G.P.)
| | - Sotiria G. Giotaki
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.A.P.); (S.G.G.); (D.A.V.); (G.S.); (V.L.); (T.G.P.)
| | - Dimitrios A. Vrachatis
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.A.P.); (S.G.G.); (D.A.V.); (G.S.); (V.L.); (T.G.P.)
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.A.P.); (S.G.G.); (D.A.V.); (G.S.); (V.L.); (T.G.P.)
| | - Vaia Lambadiari
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.A.P.); (S.G.G.); (D.A.V.); (G.S.); (V.L.); (T.G.P.)
| | | | - Charalampos Kossyvakis
- Department of Cardiology, “G. Gennimatas” General Hospital of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (C.K.); (A.K.); (K.R.); (G.D.); (D.A.)
| | - Andreas Kaoukis
- Department of Cardiology, “G. Gennimatas” General Hospital of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (C.K.); (A.K.); (K.R.); (G.D.); (D.A.)
| | - Konstantinos Raisakis
- Department of Cardiology, “G. Gennimatas” General Hospital of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (C.K.); (A.K.); (K.R.); (G.D.); (D.A.)
| | - Gerasimos Deftereos
- Department of Cardiology, “G. Gennimatas” General Hospital of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (C.K.); (A.K.); (K.R.); (G.D.); (D.A.)
| | - Theodore G. Papaioannou
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.A.P.); (S.G.G.); (D.A.V.); (G.S.); (V.L.); (T.G.P.)
| | | | - Dimitrios Avramides
- Department of Cardiology, “G. Gennimatas” General Hospital of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (C.K.); (A.K.); (K.R.); (G.D.); (D.A.)
| | - Spyridon G. Deftereos
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (K.A.P.); (S.G.G.); (D.A.V.); (G.S.); (V.L.); (T.G.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-21-0583-2355
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Varghese B, Feldman DI, Chew C, Valilis E, Blumenthal RS, Sharma G, Calkins H. Inflammation, atrial fibrillation, and the potential role for colchicine therapy. Heart Rhythm O2 2021; 2:298-303. [PMID: 34337581 PMCID: PMC8322795 DOI: 10.1016/j.hroo.2021.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests that the "NACHT-LRR and PYD domain-containing protein 3" (NLRP3) inflammasome plays an important role in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Recent preclinical evidence has suggested that the NLRP3 inflammasome may play a prominent role in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). As such, the therapies that have shown efficacy in reducing ASCVD events may also prove beneficial in AF. In this article, we review the findings that implicate the NLRP3 inflammasome in the pathogenesis of AF, discuss existing evidence behind the use of anti-inflammatory agents for AF, and discuss the future role that colchicine and other anti-inflammatory agents may play in the prevention and treatment of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibin Varghese
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - David I Feldman
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Christopher Chew
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Eva Valilis
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Roger S Blumenthal
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Garima Sharma
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hugh Calkins
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland
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