Targeted nonviral gene-based inhibition of Gα(i/o)-mediated vagal signaling in the posterior left atrium decreases vagal-induced atrial fibrillation.

Background: Pharmacologic and ablative therapies for atrial fibrillation (AF) have suboptimal efficacy. Newer gene-based approaches that target specific mechanisms underlying AF are likely to be more efficacious in treating AF. Parasympathetic signaling appears to be an important contributor to AF substrate.

Autonomic remodeling in the left atrium and pulmonary veins in heart failure: creation of a dynamic substrate for atrial fibrillation.

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is commonly associated with congestive heart failure (CHF). The autonomic nervous system is involved in the pathogenesis of both AF and CHF. We examined the role of autonomic remodeling in contributing to AF substrate in CHF.