Inhibition of Na+–H+ exchange by cariporide reduces inflammation and heart failure in rabbits with myocardial infarction

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of the Na+–H+ exchange inhibitor cariporide on left ventricular (LV) morphology and function as well as inflammation in rabbits with heart failure. Rabbits with myocardial infarction (MI) and sham controls were randomized to receive either standard chow or chow supplemented with cariporide for 9 weeks. LV morphology was determined by echocardiography. LV systolic and diastolic function was assessed under load‐dependent and ‐independent conditions by analysis of LV pressure–volume loops using piezo‐electric crystals. Plasma concentrations of C‐reactive protein and aldosterone were measured. Rabbits with MI developed LV dilatation that was reduced by cariporide. Systolic and diastolic LV function was impaired in rabbits with MI when compared to sham, as indicated by a decreased dP/dtmax (MI: 3537±718 mmHg s−1, sham: 5839±247 mmHg s−1, P