Apelinergic System Affects Electrocardiographic Abnormalities Induced by Doxorubicin

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pharmacology
• Oncology

Background:

• Anthracyclines are vital chemotherapy drugs but cause significant cardiotoxicity.
• Developing cardioprotective strategies against anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity is crucial.
• The apelinergic system's role in cardiovascular regulation makes it a potential target.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the cardioprotective potential of the apelinergic system against doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity.
• To evaluate the effects of apelin-13 and elabela on DOX-induced cardiac dysfunction.

Main Methods:

• 54 Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into seven groups.
• Rats received weekly intraperitoneal injections of DOX for 4 weeks.
• Apelin-13, elabela, or an APJ antagonist (ML221) were administered via osmotic pumps; controls received NaCl.
• Electrocardiography (ECG) and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) were performed.

Main Results:

• Lower doses of APJ agonists (apelin-13, elabela) prevented DOX-induced QT and QTc interval prolongation.
• DOX administration led to left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction, confirmed by TTE.
• Simultaneous administration of APJ agonists improved LV systolic parameters in DOX-treated rats.

Conclusions:

• Apelin and elabela demonstrate potential as cardioprotective agents against anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity.
• The findings suggest a therapeutic role for the apelinergic system in mitigating chemotherapy-related heart damage.