Overview

• The sinoatrial node (SAN), the heart's natural pacemaker, operates on different gene blueprints in men and women, influencing heart rate and rhythm risks.
• Women exhibit higher levels of TBX3 and HCN1 genes, which drive faster heartbeats and are linked to sinus tachycardia prevalence.
• Men's SAN cells show increased activity in inflammation and collagen-related genes, contributing to a higher risk of arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation.
• The study utilized donated human hearts through Lifeline of Ohio to analyze sex-specific patterns in pacing, metabolism, inflammation, and fibrotic remodeling.
• Published in the journal Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology, the findings aim to advance personalized treatments for heart rhythm disorders.