Application of the Sustained Release bFGF Microspheres to Improve Angiogenesis in the Ischemic Myocardium

Objective To discuss the application of the sustained release bFGF microspheres to improve angiogenesis and cardiac function in acute myocardial infarction. Materials and methods 12 healthy adult mongrel dogs were randomized into two groups (saline group and bFGF group), each with 6 animals. Then myocardial infarction was made by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery distal to its first diagonal branch. At the same time, direct intramyocardial injection of bFGF and saline were performed in canine infarct model at five points. 1 day and 14 days after surgery, cardiac function was evaluated by cine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). After dogs' sacrifice, angiogenesis of the two groups were evaluated by immunohistochemical studies, and the expressions of bFGF were evaluated by Western blotting. Results Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was higher in bFGF group than that in saline group (bFGF group 0.47±0.02,saline group 0.43±0.02,P=0.017).The expression of bFGF protein and microvessel density in bFGF group was higher than that in saline group(saline group163±11,bFGF group 189±16,P=0.008). Conclusions This study indicates that the sustained dual release of bFGF incorporating gelatin hydrogels can improve angiogenesis and left ventricular function in the ischemic myocardium.