Angiogenesis and the expression of bFGF in acute infarcted myocardium

AIM: To evaluate the correlation between angiogenesis and the expression of bFGF in infarcted myocardium. METHODS: Twenty-four mongrel dogs were randomized into control group and the experimental group. After acute myocardial infarction was made,a mixfure of 50 mg of bFGF and 15 ml of saline was injected into the infarcted myocardium and its border zone in the experimental group, whereas 15 ml saline alone was given to the control dogs. Every 3 dogs in each group was studied on the 1st,the 3rd, the 10th and the 17th days after the operation respectively. Angiogenesis and the expressions of bFGF of the two grups were evaluated by immunohistochemical studies with Ⅷ factor and the antibody of and bFGF. RESULTS:Microvessel density was higher in the experimental group than in the control group excepton the first day (the control group and the experimental group,respectively: the 3rd day, 92±12 and 147±1;the 10th day, 125±12 and 183±14;the 17th day, 125±15 and 224±20). bFGF expressed more in experimental group the control group and the experimental group,respectively: the 1st day, 15±2 and 35±7;the 3rd day, 34±4 and 64±6;the 10rd day, 55±9 and 79±4;the 17rd day, 21±5 and 37±13). CONCLUSION: Intramyocardial administration of basic fibroblast growth factor helps to promote the growth of microvessels in acute myocardial infarction. There is a close relationship between angiogenesis and expression of bFGF in infracted myocardium.