Efficacy of direct gene transfer of naked DNA encoding vascular endothelial growth factor into ischemic canine myocardium

    YI Fu, LU Anª²Lin, JIA Guoª²Liang, HE Jianª²Guo, ZHANG Haiª²Bin, ZHAO Zhiª²Jing

    1Department of Cardiovasology, 2Department of Ultrasonography, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi¬ðan 710033, China

    ¡¾Abstract¡¿ AIM: To investigate the efficacy of direct gene transfer of naked DNA encoding vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF165) into ischemic canine myocardium. METHODS: Twentyª²four canines underwent left thoracotomy followed by ligation of their left anterior descending coronary artery. Constructed pcDNA3.1(-)/VEGF165 eukaryotic expression plasmid was directly injected into the canine myocardium. Coronary angiography(CAG), ultrasonography and immunohistoª²chemistry of factor ¢ø related antigen were used to detect its biological effect and evaluate collateral circulation of the occluded artery. RESULTS: Three months after the operation, CAG showed better collateral circulation in the VEGF group; ultrasonography showed better heart function in the VEGF group and a significant increase in the number of capillaries compared with that of the control group. CONCLUSION: Direct gene transfer of naked DNA encoding VEGF165 into ischemic canine myocardium can increase capillary number and enhance coronary collateral circulation, Therefore the present method may be a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of myocardial ischemia. ......