Numerous reports are appearing in the literature on the efficacy of ACE-inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers in humans, both in mono- and combination therapy, in preventing AF recurrences. On the other hand, even the best anti-arrhythmic agents present a recurrence rate of about 50%, 1 year after the sinus rhythm is restored. Even amiodarone, which is the most efficacious drug in the treatment of AF recurrences, presents a series of side effects which determine its discontinuation in 18 to 25% of cases. In the wake of such observations, the Italian Group for the Study of Survival in Myocardial Infarction (GISSI) has decided to draft the last edition of the GISSI study, known as GISSI-AF. The aim of this study is to analyze the efficacy of an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) antagonist, Valsartan, in preventing AF recurrences in patients with heart disease or co-morbidity of a different nature, treated with the best recommended therapies. The study does not aim to investigate new anti-arrhythmic drugs, therefore, but to show a valid anti-remodeling therapy (Fig. 1). Valsartan has already proven its efficacy in the different phases of the cardiovascular continuum, as in the treatment of arterial hypertension, which is believed to be the most significant risk factor for ischemic heart disease (VALUE...continua a leggere