Coronary Microembolization Induces Cardiomyocyte Apoptosis in Swine by Activating the LOX-1-Dependent Mitochondrial Pathway and Caspase-8-Dependent Pathway

Abstract

Background: Cardiomyocyte apoptosis by coronary microembolization (CME) contributes to myocardial dysfunction, in which mitochondrial pathway and death receptor pathway are activated. Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1 (LOX-1) is a membrane protein involved in apoptosis. The study aimed to explore the role of LOX-1 in the activation of these 2 major apoptotic pathways. Methods: Twenty Bama miniature swine were randomized into 4 groups (n = 5 per group). The groups were Sham, CME, LOX-1 small-interfering RNA (siRNA), and control siRNA. Microspheres were injected into the left anterior descending artery of swine to establish CME model. Twelve hours after operation, cardiac function, serum c-troponin I level, microinfarct, and apoptotic index were examined. The levels of LOX-1, Bcl-2, Bax, cytochrome c as well as cleaved caspase 9, -8, and -3 were detected. Results: Myocardial dysfunction, enhanced serum c-troponin I, microinfarct, and apoptosis were induced following CME. Moreover, CME induced increased expression of LOX-1, Bax, cytochrome c, cleaved caspase 9, -8, and -3 as well as decreased Bcl-2 expression levels. The LOX-1 siRNA reversed these effects by CME except cleaved caspase 8 expression, while the control siRNA had no effect. Conclusion: Coronary microembolization induces cardiomyocyte apoptosis via the LOX-1-dependent mitochondrial pathway and caspase 8-dependent pathway.