Multiple Potential Molecular Contributors to Atrial Hypocontractility Caused by Atrial Tachycardia Remodeling in Dogs

Abstract

Shortening of APD contributes to hypocontractility induced by 1-week ATR but accounts for it only partially. Additional contractility-suppressing mechanisms include I(CaL) current reduction, impaired subcellular Ca(2+) signal transmission, and altered myofilament function associated with abnormal myosin and myosin-associated protein phosphorylation. The complex mechanistic basis of the atrial hypocontractility associated with AF argues for upstream therapeutic targeting rather than interventions directed toward specific downstream pathophysiological derangements.