Induction of Atrial Fibrillation by Neutrophils Critically Depends on CD11b/CD18 Integrins

Abstract

The current data critically link CD11b-integrin mediated atrial PMN infiltration to the formation of fibrosis, which promotes the initiation and propagation of AF. These findings not only reveal a mechanistic role of leukocytes in AF but also point towards a potential novel avenue of treatment in AF.