Somatic Mutations in the Connexin 40 Gene ( <i>GJA5</i> ) in Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract

Mutations in GJA5 may predispose patients to idiopathic atrial fibrillation by impairing gap-junction assembly or electrical coupling. Our data suggest that common diseases traditionally considered to be idiopathic may have a genetic basis, with mutations confined to the diseased tissue.