JAMA Cardiology Author Interviews Cardiomyopathy-Associated Gene Variants in Atrial Fibrillation
Apr 30, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Sean J. Jurgens, an assistant professor at Amsterdam UMC and researcher at the Broad Institute, delves into the critical connection between atrial fibrillation and cardiomyopathy. He highlights findings from cohort studies showing that young patients often carry cardiomyopathy-associated gene variants, which could indicate a higher risk of heart failure. The podcast emphasizes the importance of genetic testing for early-onset AF, exploring its benefits, challenges, and the future of accessible genetic screening for patients and families.
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Gene Variants Elevate AF Heart Risks
- Cardiomyopathy-associated gene variants are twice as common in people with atrial fibrillation (AF), and up to five times in early-onset AF under 45.
- These variants increase the risk of future cardiomyopathy or heart failure by 50-70%, suggesting genetic testing could stratify risk in early-onset AF.
AF May Signal Brewing Cardiomyopathy
- AF can precede cardiomyopathy, possibly indicating early unseen cardiac remodeling.
- Sensitivity analyses with a 12-month diagnosis window help confirm AF truly precedes heart failure, reducing coincident diagnosis bias.
AF Precedes Cardiomyopathy Across Genes
- Laminopathies cause atrial arrhythmias before dilated cardiomyopathy often with poor prognosis.
- The study shows this pattern extends across many cardiomyopathy genes, suggesting undetected early heart changes in AF patients.