Description
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat that can form blood clots in the chambers of the heart and lead to stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular symptoms. Medical professionals predict that by 2030, atrial fibrillation will affect 12 million people in the US. The chance of experiencing atrial fibrillation increases with age, but other factors such type II diabetes, genetics and the environment also play an important role. Dr. Karen Occor uses beating heart cells, zebrafish and fruit flies to identify the underlying causes of atrial fibrillation. Her important work may lead to breakthrough therapies and cures for heart disease. Join Dr. Occor to learn more about of her research.