Cardioprotective Strategies After Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury

Abstract

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is associated with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although early reperfusion is the most effective strategy to salvage ischemic myocardium, reperfusion injury can develop with the restoration of blood flow. Therefore, it is important to identify protection mechanisms and strategies for the heart after myocardial infarction. Recent studies have shown that multiple intracellular molecules and signaling pathways are involved in cardioprotection. Meanwhile, device-based cardioprotective modalities such as cardiac left ventricular unloading, hypothermia, coronary sinus intervention, supersaturated oxygen (SSO 2 ), and remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) have become important areas of research. Herein, we review the molecular mechanisms of cardioprotection and cardioprotective modalities after ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) to identify potential approaches to reduce mortality and improve prognosis in patients with AMI.

Stem Cell Therapy against Ischemic Heart Disease

“…IR injury unavoidably happens when an organ is reperfused after being deprived of its blood supply, as in the case of revascularization (e.g., PCI, stenting, or bypass surgery) following a blockage of the coronary artery (i.e., myocardial infarction) [69]. Indeed, IR injury can account for up to 50% of the final infarct size after an episode of myocardial infarction [70].…”

“…There is currently neither an effective prophylactic nor therapeutic strategy against IR injury of the heart, despite extensive research into identifying potential remedies and optimal treatment approaches [69,[77][78][79][80][81][82]. On the other hand, the anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects of MSCs against organ IR injury in animal models were realized a decade ago [83].…”

Molecular Research on Heart Protection

“…Recently, various molecular bases of heart protection have been discovered and used in many experimental and clinical investigations [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. Protective strategies based on molecular research can positively impact a diseased heart by facilitating diagnosis and treatment of injuries and disorders [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 ]. In this Special Issue, we present original research papers and updated reviews that elucidate molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic opportunities for heart protection.…”