Abstract 16881: Intracoronary Delivery of Allogeneic Mesenchymal Precursor Cells Directly after Acute Myocardial Infarction Improves Cardiac Function and Myocardial Perfusion and Decreases Adverse Left Ventricular Remodeling in Sheep

Rationale Mesenchymal precursor cells (MPC) hold great promise for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. These multipotent cells produce a vast array of angiotrophic factors and immune-modulatory cytokines. Moreover, they are immune privileged and can be given in an allogeneic setting. The aim of the current study is to investigate the efficacy and find the optimal dose of intracoronary MPC transplantation in a large animal model of AMI. Methods and Results: 30 female sheep subjected to an anterior AMI by mid LAD occlusion were randomized to receive either saline (n=10), 12.5 (n=7), 25.0 (n=7) or 37.5 (n=6) x10(6) allogeneic MPC by intracoronary infusion directly post AMI. Left ventricular function was assessed using PV loop analysis at baseline and 8 weeks FU, followed by sacrifice and tissue processing for (immune)histological analyses. Global LVEF in control animals deteriorated to 42.5 ± 3.6% and was improved in MPC treated animals by 11,9% to 54.4 ± 1.1% (rel. change + 22%, P 2 , P Conclusion: We are the first to show that intracoronary infusion of allogeneic MPC is safe and feasible in AMI. MPC infusion leads to preserved left ventricular systolic function, reduced LV remodelling and increased neo-capillary and arteriolar formation.