
Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is an uncommon heart rhythm that begins in the upper chambers of your heart (atria). It is the most common type of treated heart arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), that is caused by genetic variations. The risk factors of Afib include increased blood pressure, coronary artery disease, and being overweight.
As per a report by CDC (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention), almost 12.1 million people will have Afib in the USA in 2030. If Afib is left untreated, it leads to heart stroke. In this article, we will learn about the factors that cause genetic variation and lead to Afib.
You can lower your risk of developing Afib by a heart-healthy diet, regular aerobic exercise, and limiting the use of alcohol and smoking. Additionally, certain medications like Xarelto 2.5 mg tablet, procedures, and surgeries can help treat Afib.
Genetic Basis of Afib
Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is an uncommon heart rhythm (arrhythmia) that develops in your heart’s upper chambers (atria). The usual cycle of electrical impulses in your heart is disrupted if you have atrial fibrillation. This causes a rapid, abnormal heartbeat and inadequate blood flow from the atrium to the ventricles.
Genetic advancements have provided new insights into the onset of Afib. The current focus is on two areas:
- Genetic changes
- Gene expression regulation in ion channels
Gene expression investigations are typically carried out in animal models. These tests are primarily aimed at learning more about the molecular changes caused by the disease and the mechanisms through which Afib develops chronically. Variations like SNPs and mutation in various genes lead to Afib. Let’s have a look at those genetic mutations:
Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)
An SNP, or single nucleotide polymorphism, is a genetic variation in the DNA at a single base location. SNPs are single nucleotide base mutations in the DNA sequence. Specific SNPs in the context of Afib have been linked to altered ion channel activity and disturbed cardiac electrical signaling.
These genetic variations can enhance an individual’s vulnerability to Afib and are important in understanding the condition’s genetic foundation. SNP research in human genetics aids in the identification of possible risk factors and the development of tailored prevention and treatment strategies.
Many peoples are asking, can atrial fibrillation return? Yes, atrial fibrillation can return, particularly in individuals who have experienced previous episodes of the condition. Atrial fibrillation is a chronic condition characterized by irregular heartbeats, and while treatments such as medication, lifestyle changes, and procedures like cardioversion or catheter ablation can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of episodes, it’s not uncommon for AFib to recur.
Genetic Mutation Leading to Afib
Around 140 genetic loci related to atrial fibrillation have been identified via genome-wide association studies.
[Loci – (Locus is pluralized as loci) Similar to a street address, a locus in genomics refers to a physical spot or position inside a genome (like a gene or another DNA segment).]
The impacts of numerous loci and their potential gene targets have been studied, and novel pathways involved with the development of atrial fibrillation have been found.
Several genes have been linked to the emergence of atrial fibrillation (Afib). These genes are involved in ion channels and cardiac tissue shape, and they play a part in controlling the heart’s electrical activity. Below are some examples that cause genetic variation resulting in Afib:
KCNE1 and KCNQ1 Mutation: Mutation in the genes (KCNE1 and KCNQ1) hasten the depolarization procedure, which is the shift in the heart’s electrical potential after a heartbeat. The expedited depolarization can cause irregular heartbeats and elevate the risk of Afib.
SCN5A Mutation:. Afib is linked with the mutation in SCN5A genes that encode the components of the sodium channel in the heart. These alterations impact the regulation of the sodium channel, resulting in irregular electrical signals and playing a role in the progression of Afib.
GJA5 Mutation: Mutation in transcription factor genes such as GATA4, GATA5, and GATA6 might affect the pulmonary venous myocardium, which has a part in the beginning of Afib. These changes could disturb the regular heart rhythm and contribute to the growth of Afib.
PITX2 Mutation: Genome-wide association studies have demonstrated that numerous genes governed by Pitx2 are associated with human Afib. Pitx2 mutations have the potential to induce morphological alterations in the heart, impacting its electric signals and potentially resulting in Afib.
LMNA Mutation: The LMNA gene is necessary for preserving the structural strength of the heart’s core and controlling DNA operations. Changes in LMNA can disturb the heart’s typical electrical actions and add to the occurrence of Afib.
NPPA Mutation: Mutation in the NPPA gene can lead to decreased atrial action potential duration (APD) and effective refractory period. This implies the heart’s electrical signals recover more rapidly, rendering it susceptible to irregular heartbeats such as Afib. Moreover, elevated levels of altered atrial natriuretic peptide can additionally affect heart rhythm.
Lifestyle Modification to Prevent Afib
Although no one can promise that a stroke or clot can be avoided, there are some lifestyle modifications to lower your chances.
Heart Healthy Diet: A balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are the keys to avoiding and controlling heart disease. Include the following things in your diet to keep your heart healthy:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Protein (fish and meats)
- Vegetable oils
- Plenty of water
Stress Management and Adequate Sleep: Emotions such as stress, disrupt the heart’s rhythm. Regular stress-reduction strategies such as concentrated deep breathing, muscular relaxation, and yoga may lower the chance of an Afib episode.
Inadequate sleep is a risk factor for the occurrence and progression of Afib. As per National Sleep Foundation, an adult needs 8 hours of sleep a night.
Physical Exercise and Weight Management: Exercising regularly helps in cardiac health and managing obesity. A healthy weight lowers the chances of Afib progression. People must exercise caution since overexertion can result in an Afib episode.
Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: The intake of alcohol, energy drinks, caffeine, cocaine, tobacco and methamphetamine increases the risk of Afib progression. A 2012 Canadian Medical Association Journal study discovered a link between moderate-to-high alcohol use and Afib in adults 55 and older with cardiac disease.
Medication: The best option is to use medicines to prevent Afib by consulting a healthcare professional. Medications like Xarelto 2.5 mg tablet function by delaying electrical signals in your heart and blocking sodium channels. These medications are available at affordable prices at the best Canadian online pharmacy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, several factors contribute to genetic variation that culminates in atrial fibrillation (Afib). Natural genetic mutations can impair electrical signaling in the heart by affecting ion
channels and regulatory proteins. Afib susceptibility is also increased by inherited genetic predisposition.
Environmental factors such as lifestyle habits and diet causes genetic variation, worsening the illness. Age and gender also influence the risk of Afib. It is caused by a blend of genetic and environmental factors, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches to the prevention and treatment of Afib. Consult your health professional and take the proper prescribed medicine to treat the disease.