Atrial fibrillation: recent advances in understanding the role of microRNAs in atrial remodeling with an electrophysiological overview.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a highly prevalent condition associated with pronounced cardiovascular-related morbidity, mortality and socioeconomic burden. It accounts for more hospitalization days than does any other arrhythmia. This article reviews the basic electrophysiology of AF, electrical and structural remodeling in AF and recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms of AF in relation to specific microRNAs. This paper also reviews the potential role of microRNAs as novel therapeutic targets as well as biomarkers in the management of AF. AF shows characteristics typical of altered electrophysiology that promote ectopic activity and facilitate reentry, thereby contributing to the progression from short paroxysmal AF to a persistent, permanent form via atrial remodeling, even in the absence of progressive underlying heart disease. MicroRNAs have been suggested to influence the development of AF by regulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Increasing evidence has identified various microRNA modifications and their impacts on AF initiation and maintenance through electrical and structural remodeling. The discovery of specific microRNAs as novel therapeutic targets and some experimental evidence implicating microRNAs as potential molecular diagnostic markers have had a significant impact on the diagnosis and management of AF and demand further research.

Blood fibrinogen level as a biomarker of adverse outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The association between elevated fibrinogen level and adverse outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) remains conflicting. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the association between fibrinogen level and adverse outcomes in CAD patients. METHODS: Relevant studies were identified by searching PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases from their inception to September 30, 2021. Observational studies that investigated the association of blood fibrinogen level with cardiovascular death, all-cause mortality, and major adverse cardiovascular events were eligible. RESULTS: A total of 20,395 CAD patients from 15 articles (13 studies) were included. Comparison with the highest and the lowest fibrinogen level indicated that elevated fibrinogen level was associated with higher risk of cardiovascular death (risk ratio [RR] 2.24; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.69-2.98), all-cause mortality (RR 1.88; 95% CI 1.50-2.36), and major adverse cardiovascular events (RR 1.46; 95% CI 1.18-1.81). CONCLUSION: Elevated fibrinogen level is significantly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality in patients with CAD. Baseline fibrinogen level can serve as a promising biomarker for risk stratification of CAD.