Viable Fibroblast Matrix Patch Induces Angiogenesis and Increases Myocardial Blood Flow in Heart Failure After Myocardial Infarction

Background: This study examines a viable biodegradable three-dimensional fibroblast construct (3DFC) in a model of chronic heart failure. The viable fibroblasts, cultured on a vicryl mesh, secrete growth factors that stimulate angiogenesis. Methods: We ligated the left coronary artery of male Sprague-Dawley rats, implanted the 3DFC 3 weeks after myocardial infarction and obtained end point data 3 weeks later, that is, 6 weeks after myocardial infarction. Results: Implanting the 3DFC increases (p < 0.05) myocardial blood flow twofold, microvessel formation (0.02 ± 0.01 vs. 0.07 ± 0.03 vessels/μm2), and ventricular wall thickness (0.53 ± 0.02 to 1.02 ± 0.17 mm). The 3DFC shifts the passive pressure volume loop toward the pressure axis but does not alter left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, systolic displacement, LV end-diastolic pressure/dimension, or LV cavity area. The 3DFC stimulates selected cytokine activation with a decrease in the proinflammatory cascade and increased total protein content stimul...