Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is the cellular stress-sensing molecule. Apart from maintaining cellular energy balance, AMPK controls expression and regulation of ion channels and ion transporters, including cytosolic Ca2+ handling proteins. Emerging evidence suggests that metabolic impairment plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation. AMPK activation is thought to be protective by preventing metabolic stress, favorably modulating membrane electrophysiology including cytosolic Ca2+ dynamics; preventing cellular growth; and hypertrophic remodeling. This review considers current concepts and evidence from clinical and experimental studies regarding the role of AMPK in atrial fibrillation.
Keywords: AF; AMPK; CaTs; DAD.
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