Effect of Endothelial Adhesion Molecules on Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Endothelial adhesion molecules (EAMs), and more specifically vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), belong to a family of immunoglobulin-like molecules and are found to have increased expression in inflamed microvessels. Due to the growing evidence regarding EAM effects on cardiovascular diseases, we aimed to investigate the link between EAMs and atrial fibrillation (AF) to discover the efficacy of EAMs assessment as predictive markers in high-risk patients. Methods: We searched for articles published from January 1990 to April 2022. Two independent researchers selected studies that examined the relationship between VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 levels and AF. Study design, patient characteristics, VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 levels, and measurement methods were extracted from the selected articles. Results: Of 181 records, 22 studies were finally included in the systematic review. Meta-analyses showed a significant difference in serum levels of EAMs in patients with AF compared with patients with sinus rhythms (VCAM-1: mean difference [MD] 86.782, 95% CI 22.805–150.758, p=0.008; ICAM-1: MD 28.439 ng/mL, 95% CI 12.540–44.338, p<0.001). In subgroup analysis of persistent AF, the differences were still significant (VCAM-1: MD 98.046, 95% CI 26.582–169.510, p=0.007; ICAM-1: MD 25.091, 95% CI 12.952–37.230, p<0.001). We also found the mean ranges of VCAM-1 (95% CI 661.394–927.984 ng/mL) and ICAM-1 (95% CI 190.101–318.169 ng/mL) in patients with AF. Conclusion: This study suggests a positive association between serum levels of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 with AF, but there is a need for further large-scale studies.