Cross-population GWAS and proteomics improve risk prediction and reveal mechanisms in atrial fibrillation.

ABSTRACT: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common cardiac arrhythmia with strong genetic components, yet its underlying molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets remain incompletely understood. We conducted a cross-population genome-wide meta-analysis of 168,007 AF cases and identified 525 loci that met genome-wide significance. Two loci of PITX2 and ZFHX3 genes were identified as shared across populations of different ancestries. Comprehensive gene prioritization approaches reinforced the role of muscle development and heart contraction while also uncovering additional pathways, including cellular response to transforming growth factor-beta. Population-specific genetic correlations uncovered common and unique circulatory comorbidities between Europeans and Africans. Mendelian randomizatio

SUBMITTER: Yuan S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12254421 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature