Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of arrhythmia in the general population with a prevalence that reaches one third of patients with arterial hypertension, diabetic and other risk factors. In atrial fibrillation, the regular impulses produced by the sinus node for a normal heart beat are overwhelmed by rapid electrical discharges produced in the atria and adjacent parts of the pulmonary veins. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are permanent subjects of interest in relation to the protection of cardiovascular health and the prevention of the incidence of both ventricular and atrial arrhythmias. It has been proposed that Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid possess anti-inflammatory properties that can inhibit arrhythmogenic mechanisms. Potential Targets of Omega-3 PUFAs Relevant to Arrhythmias Prevention are direct inhibition of sarcolemmal ion channels & restoring cardiac connexion channels. Intake of omega-3 fatty acids significantly prevents the occurrence of AF. The purpose of this review is to focus on the novel cellular and molecular effects of omega-3 PUFAs, in the context of the mechanisms and factors involved in the development of atrial fibrillation.
 Keywords: Eicosapentaenoic acid, Docosahexaenoic acid, Atrial Fibrillation, Polyunsaturated fatty acids, Arrhythmias.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
