The Impact Of Adipokines Levels In Patients With Atrial Fibrillation

Introduction Adipose tissue is no longer considered a triglycerides-storage depot, but it has been recognized as an endocrine organ that regulates sugar and fat metabolism and energy homeostasis and implicates in cardiovascular (CV) function through the release of bioactive factors, the so-called adipokines. Several adipokines including adiponectin, omentin-1, apelin and visfatin have been identified as well as their link with CV diseases and, particularly, coronary artery disease (CAD) (1-3).

However, the potential impact of adipokines in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) has not still elucidated. Although, there is evidence that apelin (4,5) and omentin-1 (6) are inversely correlated with AF, available data in regard to adiponectin and visfatin are inconclusive (7-9).

Objectives The principal aim of the present study is to calculate adiponectin, omentin-1, apelin and visfatin plasma levels in patients with AF and controls matched for age and gender in an effort to identify their potential role in the development of AF.

Methods Study population. Overall, 40 patients with AF and 40 controls will be studied. Patients with CAD, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, cancer, significant valvular disease, rheumatic heart disease or stroke will be excluded. The present study is conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and has been approved by the Ethics Committee of our Hospital. A written informed consent will be obtained from each participant.

A detailed profile including demographic characteristics (age, gender) and traditional CV risk factors (smoking, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus) will be obtained from every patient. Body mass index was (BMI) will be calculated as bodyweight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared and will be estimated for all subjects. All participants will undergo either electrocardiogram or 24-hour Holter monitoring. AF patients will be divided into the following three groups: paroxysmal AF, persistent AF and permanent AF.