Abstract

This literature review explores the correlation between atrial fibrillation (AF) and the gut microbiome by elucidating its significance in cardiovascular health. AF stands as a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. The gut microbiome, a complex ecosystem of microorganisms inhabiting the gastrointestinal tract, plays a crucial role in systemic health through its influence on immune modulation, metabolic processes, and host-microbe interactions. Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between AF and alterations in gut microbial composition, raising intriguing questions about underlying mechanisms and clinical implications.

Recent investigations have shed light on the potential interplay between AF and gut microbial composition. Alterations in gut microbiota diversity and abundance have been observed in AF patients compared to healthy controls, suggesting a possible link between gut dysbiosis and arrhythmia susceptibility. Mechanistic studies propose several pathways through which gut microbial metabolites and immune modulation may influence atrial electrophysiology and arrhythmogenesis.

The clinical implications of the AF-gut microbiome connection are profound. Microbiome-based biomarkers hold promise for risk stratification, enabling early identification of individuals at elevated risk of AF development or recurrence. Furthermore, interventions targeting the gut microbiome, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary modifications, offer innovative therapeutic avenues for AF management, potentially augmenting traditional treatment modalities.

Despite significant progress, challenges such as methodological limitations and the need for further validation in diverse patient cohorts remain present. Longitudinal studies are warranted to elucidate the temporal relationship between gut microbiome alterations and AF onset or progression. Nevertheless, understanding the AF-gut microbiome connection provides a foundation for personalized medicine approaches, optimizing AF management and improving cardiovascular health outcomes.

Keywords: Gut-atrial, Fibrillation link, Gut microbiota, AF-gut microbiome, Gastrointestinal tract, Atrial fibrillation (AF).