The plasma level of aldsterone and the tissue expression of mRNA of aldosterone-synthase in patients with or without tatrial fibrillation

Objective To explore the plasma level of aldosterone(Ald) and the tissue mRNA expression of aldosterone-synthase(CYP11B2) in patients with or without atrial fibrillation(AF).Methods Thirty-eight patients who underwent opened thoracic surgery were enrolled.They were divided into 3 groups according to with or without history of AF: Sinus Rhythm group,Paroxysmal AF group and Chronic AF group.The plasma concentrations of Ald were determined by the method of radio-immunity assay,and the mRNA expression of CYP11B2 in atrial myocardium was determined by using Semi-Polymerase Chain Reaction(Semi-PCR).Results Plasma Ald levels were significantly higher in cAF group than pAF group and SR group(P0.01).CYP11B2/GAPDH gray ratio was significantly higher in pAF group than the SR group(P0.01),significantly lower than cAF group(P0.05).Plasma Ald circulating concentration and expression of atrial tissue CYP11B2mRNA and left atrial diameter were significantly correlated with changes in the relationship(P0.01).Conclusion Ald may probably participate in the development and persistent of atrial fibrillation through mediating atrial structural remodeling.