Inflammation has been implicated in the pathophysiology of atrial fibrillation (AF) and
mediates various pathologic processes such as oxidative stress and apoptosis. Atrial fibrosis
causes conduction disturbances and contributes to the progression of atrial remodeling.
Innate immune cells secrete inflammatory mediators. Recent evidence also suggests that
cardiomyocytes can secrete inflammatory mediators. Cardiac fibroblasts (FBs), the cells
responsible for fibrous tissue formation, are activated by cytokines, growth factors, and …