Divergent Cardiac Adaptations in Endurance Sport: Atrial Fibrillation Markers in Marathon Versus Ultramarathon Athletes.

ABSTRACT: Endurance training induces significant cardiac remodeling, with evidence suggesting that prolonged high-intensity exercise may increase the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, physiological responses differ by event type. This review compares AF-related markers in marathon and ultramarathon runners, focusing on structural adaptations, inflammatory and endothelial biomarkers, and the incidence of arrhythmias. A systematic analysis of 29 studies revealed consistent left atrial (LA) enlargement in marathon runners linked to elevated AF risk and fibrosis markers such as Galectin-3 and PIIINP. In contrast, ultramarathon runners exhibited right atrial (RA) dilation and increased systemic inflammation, as indicated by elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and soluble E-sele

SUBMITTER: Waskiewicz Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12295922 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature