Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors in the treatment of cTnTR141W transgenic mouse model of dilated cardiomyopathy

Background: Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors (ACEIs) are beneficial in patients with heart failure, yet their role after heart failure remains ambiguous. Particularly, the effects of ACEIs on cardiac function of dilated cardiomyopathy are unknown. Methods: To establish the cTnTR141Wtransgenic mouse to make an animal model of dilated cardiomyopathy. 36 cTnTR141W transgenic mice were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group and the placebo group. 18 transgene negative mice were used as controls. The three groups were taken captopril target dose/water as designed. Medications were routinely up-titrated over a period of 4 to 8 months. Results: cTnTR141W mice had significantly larger hearts and poorer LV function than normal control group. LVSDV, LVEDV, LVIDs and LVIDd of mice in the experimental group were lower than those in the placebo group, while the EF%, FS%, SV and CO of mice in the experimental group were significantly enhanced than those in the placebo group. The survival rate of the experimental group is higher than that of the placebo group. Conclusion: ACEIs is the key enzyme to increase the survival rate and efficiency of heart function improvement in cTnTR141W mice with heart dysfunction.