VEGF-C induces collateral formation in ischaemic porcine heart model

Abstract

VEGF-C has previously been shown to promote lympangiogenesis and mild angiogenesis. The aim of ths study was to investigate angiogenic potential of VEGF-C in ischaemic porcine heart model. Fifteen lanrace piglets were subjected to ameroid-induced gradual occlusion of the left circumflex artery. All animal treatment were performed conforming the 1991 revision of “Guiding Principles in the Care and Use of Animals”(American Physiological association). Three weeks after ameroid placement, 99Tc-sestamibi gated SPECT during rest and stress, in vivo angiography and gamma camera mounted dual head coincidence detection imaging were performed and the pigs were randomized to receive adeno (ad) VEGF-C (n = 6) or control adLacZ (n = 5). Four weeks later the examinations were repeated. At that time, in vivo angiography showed significantly greater collateral development in the (ad) VEGF-C group localized in the treatment area (p < 0,05) compared to the control group. Histology revealed more capillary vessels in the (ad) VEGF-C group versus control animals (p < 0,03).Coincidence detection imaging of 18F-FDG metabolism suggested improved myocardial viability in the treatment group compared to control animals (p = 0,054). SPECT perfusion imaging showed no difference between the groups. VEGF-C induces subtle, but statistically significant collateral formation in the ischaemic porcine heart model. The results suggest also better recognition of minor ischaemic changes in the myocardium using PET coincidence imaging versus SPECT.