Fractionation of electrograms is caused by colocalized conduction block and connexin disorganization in the absence of fibrosis as AF becomes persistent in the goat model.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Electrogram fractionation and atrial fibrosis are both thought to be pathophysiological hallmarks of evolving persistence of atrial fibrillation (AF), but recent studies in humans have shown that they do not colocalize. The interrelationship and relative roles of fractionation and fibrotic change in AF persistence therefore remain unclear.

Objective

The aim of the study was to examine the hypothesis that electrogram fractionation with increasing persistence of AF results from localized conduction slowing or block due to changes in atrial connexin distribution in the absence of fibrotic change.

Methods

Of 12 goats, atrial burst pacemakers maintained AF in 9 goats for up to 3 consecutive 4-week periods. After each 4-week period, 3 goats underwent epicardial m

SUBMITTER: Kirubakaran S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4315883 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature