Skeletal myoblasts preserve remote matrix architecture and global function when implanted early or late after coronary ligation into infarcted or remote myocardium

Background-The inability of skeletal myoblasts to transdifferentiate into cardiomyocytes suggests that their beneficial effects on cardiac function after a myocardial infarction are mediated by paracrine effects. We evaluated the roles of these factors in the preservation of matrix architecture (in the infarct and remote regions) by varying the timing (postmyocardial infarction) and delivery site of the implanted cells. Methods and Results-Skeletal myoblasts (5x10(6)) or control media were injected into the infarct or noninfarcted myocardium at 5 or 30 days after coronary artery ligation in rats. Function was assessed by echocardiography before transplantation and 14 and 30 days thereafter and with a Millar catheter at 30 days after transplantation. Ventricular geometry, remote fibrillar collagen architecture, and changes in the matrix metalloproteinase-TIMP system were evaluated. Myoblast implantation in both sites and at both times preserved matrix architecture (length and width of collagen fibers) in the remote myocardium (in association with some decreases in remote myocardial matrix metalloprotease activity), improved global cardiac function, and attenuated the progressive increase in end diastolic volume (P<0.05 for all measures compared with medium controls). Cells delivered into the infarct region preserved scar thickness; cells delivered into the noninfarcted myocardium preserved wall thickness. Conclusions-Regardless of whether the cells were injected into the infarct or the noninfarcted myocardium early after an myocardial infarction or later, skeletal myoblasts improved cardiac function by preventing ventricular dilation and preserving matrix architecture in the remote region, likely mediated by paracrine effects.