Progression of matrixin and cardiokine expression patterns in an ovine model of heart failure and recovery

Abstract Background The molecular mechanisms underlying the geometrical changes of the left ventricle during the progression to heart failure and recovery are not well defined. Objective Here we investigate the involvement of matrixins and cardiokines in an ovine model of pressure-induced left ventricular failure (LVF). Methods Fifteen sheep underwent supracoronary aortic banding with an inflatable cuff. A controlled and progressive increase of LV pressure was monitored echocardiographically. Endomyocardial biopsies were collected throughout the development of LVF and subsequent recovery after pressure unloading. Results Thirteen sheep developed LVF with a subsequent recovery. Peak left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and dilatation (LVD) occurred at 31.5±1.6weeks and 102.7±2.2weeks post-banding respectively, with an increase in LV internal diameter in diastole (LVIDd 5.11±0.12 compared to the control 3.37±0.07cm, p Conclusions We used an ovine model to study reversible LV remodelling without interruption and found significant changes in matrixin and cardiokine expression during LV progression to failure and recovery.