Currently there is a limited understanding of the genetic basis for atrial fibrillation and whether it changes as an individual’s arrhythmia evolves over time. We are currently investigating the transcriptional changes that increase patients’ risk of developing post-operative atrial fibrillation, using state of the art Next Generation RNA Sequencing.

Since the electrocardiogram (ECG) was introduced more than a century ago, mapping of cardiac electrical activity has been central to understanding and treating arrhythmia. In the clinic, basket catheters are now providing more sophisticated imaging. In the laboratory, optical and direct contact mapping are becoming more routine.

We are developing a flexible membrane capable of sub-millisecond and sub-micrometer resolution to map cardiac electrical activity with unprecedented accuracy.

Post-operative atrial fibrillation affects up to half the patients who undergo cardiac surgery, increasing their risk of morbidity and even mortality. We are investigating whether intra-operative assessment and prophylactic treatment of patients at risk for developing post-operative atrial fibrillation may improve their outcomes after surgery.