Plasma profiles of matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of the metalloproteinases predict recurrence of atrial fibrillation following cardioversion.

Atrial fibrosis is considered to contribute to atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence following cardioversion. This study tested the hypothesis that circulating levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs) can predict AF recurrence postcardioversion. Precardioversion plasma samples (n = 82) were assayed for MMPs (eight types), TIMPs (all four types), N-terminus pro B-type natriuretic peptide, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels.