Epigenetic control of ion channels in cardiac fibrosis.
Cardiac fibrosis is a pathological process characterized by excessive collagen deposition and abnormal proliferation of cardiac fibroblasts. This condition can lead to impaired cardiac function and ventricular remodeling. The development of cardiac fibrosis involves multiple mechanisms, and studies confirm that epigenetic mechanisms play a crucial part in cardiac fibrosis. Maintaining ion channel homeostasis is essential for optimal cardiac function; any imbalance can induce a range of cardiovascular diseases. However, there is little in the way of a systematic overview of the epigenetic regulation of ion channels contributing to cardiac fibrosis. This review systematically summarizes the epigenetic mechanisms underlying ion channel-mediated cardiac fibrosis and discusses potential interventions and biomarkers, along with the challenges in this rapidly evolving field.