RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

AIC Genotyping Study

This study aims to understand why some people with a common irregular heartbeat called Atrial Fibrillation (AF) develop a weakened heart muscle, known as heart failure, while others don't. We believe specific genetic changes might make certain individuals more vulnerable. Researchers are looking at a small number of these genetic variations in people who developed heart failure from AF, but improved after AF treatment. We'll compare their genes to those who have AF but no heart failure, and to those who have AF-related heart failure that didn't improve. The goal is to find ways to identify at-risk patients earlier and offer more personalised, effective treatments.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Barts & The London NHS Trust

Enrolment target

299

Start

25 Mar 2026

Estimated completion

31 May 2027

Cardiomyopathy Atrial Fibrillation (AF)Genetic

What is this study about?

You might know that an irregular heartbeat, called Atrial Fibrillation or AF, is quite common, affecting many adults. While most people with AF live well, for some, it can unfortunately lead to their heart muscle becoming weak. This condition is called heart failure, and it means the heart struggles to pump blood around the body effectively.

Doctors don’t fully understand why some people with AF develop a weakened heart and others don't. This study is exploring a new idea: could specific, subtle changes in our genes make some people more prone to heart failure if they have AF? We already know such genetic changes can play a role when other stresses, like certain illnesses or pregnancy, lead to heart failure, so it’s worth investigating for AF too.

The study will look at a specific set of genes in different groups of people. We'll compare people who developed heart failure because of their AF but improved after their AF was treated, with those who have AF but never developed heart failure. We'll also look at a group whose heart failure didn't improve even after AF treatment. By carefully checking these genes, we hope to find clues that could help doctors in the future. If we can identify these genetic links, it might lead to better ways to catch high-risk patients early, offer them faster treatment, and even advise on family screening where suitable. Ultimately, this research aims to help prevent heart failure and offer more tailored care for people with AF, particularly in East London and potentially beyond.

Key takeaways

This study investigates genetic reasons for heart weakening in people with an irregular heartbeat (AF).
It aims to understand why some AF patients develop heart failure while others don't.
Genetic testing will involve a small blood sample.
Participation could help improve future treatments for AF and prevent heart failure.
You won't receive individual genetic results or direct medical benefits from this study.
You can withdraw from the study at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or older who have experienced an irregular heartbeat called Atrial Fibrillation (AF).

Specifically, they want to include people who developed a weakened heart muscle (heart failure) because of their AF, but then saw their heart function improve significantly after their AF was treated. They also need people who have AF but haven't developed a weakened heart muscle, as well as a smaller group who developed AF-related heart failure that didn't get better after treatment.

Some reasons you might not be able to join include having another clear cause for a weakened heart (like a serious heart attack or certain other heart conditions), having been pregnant recently, drinking a lot of alcohol, or having had certain strong cancer treatments. The study aims to focus on AF as the main cause of heart weakening.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation (AF)?
Have you developed significant weakening of your heart muscle (heart failure) that improved after your AF was treated, OR have you had AF but NOT developed heart failure?
Do you have no other clear cause for your heart weakening, like a recent severe heart attack or active valve disease?
Have you not been pregnant in the last year?
Do you consume less than 21 units of alcohol per week?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

As this is a genetic study, it will mostly involve providing a blood sample for genetic testing. There will be no specific study visits, medications, or ongoing treatments provided by the study, beyond what your regular doctor would recommend. Your medical records will be reviewed to gather information about your heart health and AF treatment history. The total duration of your participation would be limited to the collection of your sample and review of your existing medical information.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study involves minimal risks, mainly associated with the blood test, such as slight bruising or discomfort at the injection site. There are no direct medical benefits for you from participating, as the study results will guide future treatments rather than immediately change your current care. However, your involvement could significantly help doctors understand AF-related heart failure better, leading to improved care for others in the future. You always have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

St Bartholomew's Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is Atrial Fibrillation (AF)?

AF is a common type of irregular heartbeat where the upper chambers of the heart beat very fast and irregularly.

What is heart failure?

Heart failure means your heart isn't pumping blood as well as it should, leading to symptoms like tiredness and breathlessness.

Will I get my genetic results?

The study focuses on common patterns in groups, rather than individual results. You will not receive your specific genetic results from this study.

How much of my time will this take?

Participation is mainly about providing a blood sample and allowing access to your existing medical records; there are no extra appointments.

Is this study offering new treatments?

No, this study is observational, looking for genetic links. It’s not testing new medications or treatments.

How to find out more

Nikhil Ahluwalia, MBBS, PhD

nikhil.ahluwalia@nhs.net +44(0) 20 3465 5398 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.