To evaluate if cells derived from degenerated AF are able to initiate gene expression of a regenerative pattern of extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules, cultivated cells were stimulated with bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) or tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) for 24 h. Here, TNF is linked to atrial fibrillation.