Effect Of Coq10 On Contractile Reserve Of Hibernating Swine Myocardium Following Bypass Surgery

Background: We have previously shown that the recovery of regional function and maximal oxygen consumption in a pig model of hibernating myocardium is incomplete at 4 weeks following bypass surgery (CABG). Because clinical studies suggest a beneficial effect of chronic administration of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in ischemic heart disease, we tested the benefit of this supplement on contractile reserve, using MRI. Methods: Twelve pigs underwent placement of a constrictor around the LAD artery and had reduced function by MRI at 12 weeks. They then underwent off-pump byass using a left internal mammary artery graft and were allowed to recover. Pigs were given daily dietary supplements of either CoQ10 (10 mg/kg/day) or placebo and restudied with MRI at 4 weeks post-CABG. Images were acquired prior to and following CABG with a 3.0-T scanner (Achieva, Philips Medical Systems, Andover MA, USA), with a 4-element phased array coil on the chest and EKG gating. Regional circumferential strain (EC) measures were determine...