The Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia with serious clinical sequelae, but despite its significance little is known about the genetic origins. Recently, the untranscribed 98% of the human genome has been increasingly implicated in important processes like cardiac organogenesis, physiology, and pathophysiology. Specifically, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) have been shown to interact with the transcriptome in various ways that alter gene expression. Previously, multiple lncRNAs have been identified in disease processes such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, diabetes, and more. Multiple studies now show lncRNAs are involved in each fundamental mechanism leading to the development of AF including structural remodeling, electrical remodeling, renin angiotensin system (RAS) effects, and calcium handling abnormalities. The altered expression of lncRNAs offers genetic targets for the diagnosis and treatment of AF. In this article, we discuss the role of lncRNAs in atrial fibrillation and its pathogenesis.