Ramipril retards development of aortic valve stenosis in a rabbit model: mechanistic considerations.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is associated with significant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. To date, no therapeutic modality has been shown to be effective in retarding AVS progression. We evaluated the effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition with ramipril on disease progression in a recently developed rabbit model of AVS.

Experimental approach

The effects of 8 weeks of treatment with either vitamin D₂ at 25,000 IU for 4 days a week alone or in combination with ramipril (0.5 mg·kg⁻¹) on aortic valve structure and function were examined in New Zealand white rabbits. Echocardiographic aortic valve backscatter (AV(BS)) and aortic valve:outflow tract flow velocity ratio were utilized to quantify changes in valve structure and function.

SUBMITTER: Ngo DT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3041260 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature