Mitochondrial genetic effect on atrial fibrillation: A case-control study

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia in the general population and following cardiac surgery. The influence of mitochondrial genomics on AF pathogenesis is not fully understood. We analyzed mitochondrial variables from 78 human atrial samples collected from cardiac surgeries in the following groups: 1) permanent preoperative AF; 2) preoperative sinus rhythm (SR) with postoperative AF; and 3) pre-/postoperative SR. Haplogroup H appeared offer protection against, and haplogroup U predispose to permanent AF. mtDNA content was higher in group 2 than in 3. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the influence of mitochondria on AF pathogenesis.