Superior diastolic function with K_ATP channel opener diazoxide in a novel mouse Langendorff model

Adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium (K_ATP) channel openers have been found to be cardioprotective in multiple animal models via an unknown mechanism. Mouse models allow genetic manipulation of K_ATP channel components for the investigation of this mechanism. Mouse Langendorff models using 30 min of global ischemia are known to induce measurable myocardial infarction and injury. Prolongation of global ischemia in a mouse Langendorff model could allow the determination of the mechanisms involved in K_ATP channel opener cardioprotection.

Mouse hearts (C57BL/6) underwent baseline perfusion with Krebs-Henseleit buffer (30 min), assessment of function using a left ventricular balloon, delivery of test solution, and prolonged global ischemia (90 min). Hearts underwent reperfusion (30 min) and functional assessment. Coronary flow was measured using an inline probe. Test solutions included were as follows: hyperkalemic cardioplegia alone (CPG, n = 11) or with diazoxide (CPG + DZX, n = 12).

Although the CPG + DZX group had greater percent recovery of developed pressure and coronary flow, this was not statistically significant. Following a mean of 74 min (CPG) and 77 min (CPG + DZX), an additional increase in end-diastolic pressure was noted (plateau), which was significantly higher in the CPG group. Similarly, the end-diastolic pressure (at reperfusion and at the end of experiment) was significantly higher in the CPG group.

Prolongation of global ischemia demonstrated added benefit when DZX was added to traditional hyperkalemic CPG. This model will allow the investigation of DZX mechanism of cardioprotection following manipulation of targeted K_ATP channel components. This model will also allow translation to prolonged ischemic episodes associated with cardiac surgery.