Cardiac functional improvement by a human Bcl-2 transgene in a mouse model of ischemia/reperfusion injury

Abstract

Bcl-2 overexpression is effective in reducing myocardial reperfusion injury and improving heart function. This benefit correlates with a reduction of cardiomyocyte apoptosis. The apoptotic component of ischemia/reperfusion injury could therefore constitute a new therapeutic target in the acute phase of myocardial infarction.