Ischemic preconditioning increases spinal excitability and voluntary activation during maximal plantar flexion contractions in men

The enigmatic benefits of acute limb ischemic preconditioning (IP) in enhancing muscle force and exercise performance have intrigued researchers. This study sought to unravel the underlying mechanisms, focusing on increased neural drive and the role of spinal excitability while excluding peripheral factors. Soleus Hoffmann (H)-reflex /M-wave recruitment curves and unpotentiated supramaximal responses were recorded before and after IP or a low-pressure control intervention. Subsequently, the twitch interpolation technique was applied during maximal voluntary contractions to assess conventional parameters of neural output. Following IP, there was an increase in both maximum normalized force and voluntary activation (VA) for the plantar flexor group, with negligible peripheral alterations. Greater benefits were observed in participants with lower VA levels. Despite greater H-reflex gains, soleus volitional (V)-wave and sEMG amplitudes remained unchanged. In conclusion, IP improves muscle force via enhanced neural drive to the muscles. This effect appears associated, at least in part, to reduced presynaptic inhibition and/or increased motoneuron excitability. Furthermore, the magnitude of the benefit is inversely proportional to the skeletal muscle's functional reserve, making it particularly noticeable in under-recruited muscles. These findings have implications for the strategic application of the IP procedure across diverse populations.

Reperfusion Injury: How Can We Reduce It by Pre-, Per-, and Postconditioning

While early coronary reperfusion via primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) is established as the most efficacious therapy for minimizing infarct size (IS) in acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), the restoration of blood flow also introduces myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), leading to cardiomyocyte death. Among diverse methods, ischemic conditioning (IC), achieved through repetitive cycles of ischemia and reperfusion, has emerged as the most promising method to mitigate IRI. IC can be performed by applying the protective stimulus directly to the affected myocardium or indirectly to non-affected tissue, which is known as remote ischemic conditioning (RIC). In clinical practice, RIC is often applied by serial inflations and deflations of a blood pressure cuff on a limb. Despite encouraging preclinical studies, as well as clinical studies demonstrating reductions in enzymatic IS and myocardial injury on imaging, the observed impact on clinical outcome has been disappointing so far. Nevertheless, previous studies indicate a potential benefit of IC in high-risk STEMI patients. Additional research is needed to evaluate the impact of IC in such high-risk cohorts. The objective of this review is to summarize the pathophysiological background and preclinical and clinical data of IRI reduction by IC.

Neuroadaptive Biochemical Mechanisms of Remote Ischemic Conditioning

This review summarizes the currently known biochemical neuroadaptive mechanisms of remote ischemic conditioning. In particular, it focuses on the significance of the pro-adaptive effects of remote ischemic conditioning which allow for the prevention of the neurological and cognitive impairments associated with hippocampal dysregulation after brain damage. The neuroimmunohumoral pathway transmitting a conditioning stimulus, as well as the molecular basis of the early and delayed phases of neuroprotection, including anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory components, are also outlined. Based on the close interplay between the effects of ischemia, especially those mediated by interaction of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) and steroid hormones, the involvement of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical system in remote ischemic conditioning is also discussed.

Potential Benefits of a Single Session of Remote Ischemic Preconditioning and Walking in Sedentary Older Adults: A Pilot Study

Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) has shown positive effects in endurance-type sports among healthy young individuals; however, its effects in endurance-type exercises in older adults have not been explored. We aimed to examine the acute effects of a single session of IPC prior to an endurance-type exercise on cardiovascular- and physical-function-related parameters in sedentary older adults. A pilot study with a time-series design was carried out. Nine participants were enrolled consecutively in the following intervention groups: (i) SHAM (sham IPC + walking) and (ii) IPC (IPC + walking) groups. The main outcomes were resting systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure, heart rate (HR), peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), maximum isometric voluntary contraction (MIVC), endurance performance, and perceived fatigue. After the intervention, the IPC group showed a significant reduction in SBP, whereas SpO2 decreased in the SHAM group. The IPC group maintained quadriceps MIVC levels, whereas these levels dropped in the SHAM group. No changes in DBP, resting HR, endurance, or fatigue in any group were observed. These findings are of interest for the promotion of cardiovascular and physical health in older people.

The antihypertensive effect of remote ischemic conditioning in spontaneously hypertensive rats

Purpose

Limb remote ischemic conditioning (LRIC) may be an effective method to control hypertension. This study investigated whether LRIC decreases blood pressure by regulating the hypertensive inflammatory response in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR).

Method

The SHR and aged-matched Wistar rats with different ages were randomly assigned to the SHR group, SHR+LRIC group, Wistar group, and Wistar + LRIC group. LRIC was conducted by tightening a tourniquet around the upper thigh and releasing it for three cycles daily (10 mins x3 cycles). Blood pressure, the percentage of monocytes and T lymphocytes, and the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the blood were analyzed.

Results

The blood pressure of SHR was significantly higher than that of age-matched Wistar rats. LRIC decreased blood pressure in SHR at different ages (4, 8, and 16 weeks old), but had no effect on the blood pressure in Wistar rats. Flow cytometry analysis showed that blood monocytes and CD8 T cells of SHR were higher than those of Wistar rats. LRIC significantly decreased the percentage of monocytes and CD8 T cells in SHR. Consistent with the changes of immune cells, the levels of plasma IL-6 and TNF-α in SHR were also higher. And LRIC attenuated the plasma IL-6 and TNF-α levels in SHR.

Conclusion

LRIC may decreased the blood pressure via modulation of the inflammatory response in SHR.

Neuronal Pre- and Postconditioning via Toll-like Receptor 3 Agonist or Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy as New Treatment Strategies for Spinal Cord Ischemia: An In Vitro Study

Spinal cord ischemia (SCI) is a devastating and unpredictable complication of thoracoabdominal aortic repair. Postischemic Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) activation through either direct agonists or shock wave therapy (SWT) has been previously shown to ameliorate damage in SCI models. Whether the same applies for pre- or postconditioning remains unclear. In a model of cultured SHSY-5Y cells, preconditioning with either poly(I:C), a TLR3 agonist, or SWT was performed before induction of hypoxia, whereas postconditioning treatment was performed after termination of hypoxia. We measured cytokine expression via RT-PCR and utilized Western blot analysis for the analysis of signaling and apoptosis. TLR3 activation via poly(I:C) significantly reduced apoptotic markers in both pre- and postconditioning, the former yielding more favorable results through an additional suppression of TLR4 and its downstream signaling. On the contrary, SWT showed slightly more favorable effects in the setting of postconditioning with significantly reduced markers of apoptosis. Pre- and post-ischemic direct TLR3 activation as well as post-ischemic SWT can decrease apoptosis and proinflammatory cytokine expression significantly in vitro and might therefore pose possible new treatment strategies for ischemic spinal cord injury.

Somatostatin and Its Receptors in Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury and Cardioprotection

Little is known about the role of the neuropeptide somatostatin (SST) in myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury and cardioprotection. Here, we investigated the direct cardiocytoprotective effect of SST on ischemia/reperfusion injury in cardiomyocyte cultures, as well as the expression of SST and its receptors in pig and human heart tissues. SST induced a bell-shaped, concentration-dependent cardiocytoprotection in both adult rat primary cardiomyocytes and H9C2 cells subjected to simulated ischemia/reperfusion injury. Furthermore, in a translational porcine closed-chest acute myocardial infarction model, ischemic preconditioning increased plasma SST-like immunoreactivity. Interestingly, SST expression was detectable at the protein, but not at the mRNA level in the pig left ventricles. SSTR1 and SSTR2, but not the other SST receptors, were detectable at the mRNA level by PCR and sequencing in the pig left ventricle. Moreover, remote ischemic conditioning upregulated SSTR1 mRNA. Similarly, SST expression was also detectable in healthy human interventricular septum samples at the protein level. Furthermore, SST-like immunoreactivity decreased in interventricular septum samples of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. SSTR1, SSTR2, and SSTR5 but not SST and the other SST receptors were detectable at the mRNA level by sequencing in healthy human left ventricles. In addition, in healthy human left ventricle samples, SSTR1 and SSTR2 mRNAs were expressed especially in vascular endothelial and some other cell types as detected by RNA Scope® in situ hybridization. This is the first demonstration that SST exerts a direct cardiocytoprotective effect against simulated ischemia/reperfusion injury. Moreover, SST is expressed in the heart tissue at the peptide level; however, it is likely to be of sensory neural origin since its mRNA is not detectable. SSTR1 and SSTR2 might be involved in the cardioprotective action of SST, but other mechanisms cannot be excluded.

The Antioxidant Transcription Factor Nrf2 in Cardiac Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a transcription factor that controls cellular defense responses against toxic and oxidative stress by modulating the expression of genes involved in antioxidant response and drug detoxification. In addition to maintaining redox homeostasis, Nrf2 is also involved in various cellular processes including metabolism and inflammation. Nrf2 activity is tightly regulated at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional and post-translational levels, which allows cells to quickly respond to pathological stress. In the present review, we describe the molecular mechanisms underlying the transcriptional regulation of Nrf2. We also focus on the impact of Nrf2 in cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury, a condition that stimulates the overproduction of reactive oxygen species. Finally, we analyze the protective effect of several natural and synthetic compounds that induce Nrf2 activation and protect against ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart and other organs, and their potential clinical application.

Influence of strain, age, origin, and anesthesia on the cardioprotective efficacy by local and remote ischemic conditioning in an ex vivo rat model

Background

Local ischemic preconditioning (IPC) and remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) induced by brief periods of ischemia and reperfusion protect against ischemia‐reperfusion injury.

Methods

We studied the sensitivity to IR‐injury and the influence of strain, age, supplier, and anesthesia upon the efficacy of IPC and RIC in 7‐ and 16‐weeks‐old Sprague‐Dawley and Wistar rats from three different suppliers. The influence of sedation with a hypnorm and midazolam mixture (rodent mixture) and pentobarbiturate was compared.

Results

IPC attenuated infarct size in both 7‐weeks‐old Sprague–Dawley (48.4 ± 17.7% vs. 20.3 ± 6.9, p < 0.001) and 7‐weeks‐old Wistar (55.6 ± 10.9% vs. 26.8 ± 5.0%, p < 0.001) rats. Infarct size was larger in 16‐weeks‐old Sprague–Dawley rats, however, IPC still lowered infarct size (78.8 ± 9.2% vs. 58.3 ± 12.3%, p < 0.01). RIC reduced infarct sizes in 7‐weeks‐old Sprague–Dawley (75.3 ± 11.8% vs. 58.6 ± 8.9%, p < 0.05), but not in 7‐weeks‐old Wistar rats (31.7 ± 17.6% and 24.0 ± 12.6%, p = 0.2). In 16‐weeks‐old Sprague–Dawley rats, RIC did not induce protection (76.4 ± 5.5% and 73.2 ± 14.7%, p = 0.6). However, RIC induced protection in 16‐weeks‐old Wistar rats (45.2 ± 8.5% vs. 14.7 ± 10.8%, p < 0.001). RIC did not reduce infarct size in 7‐weeks‐old Sprague–Dawley rats from Charles River (62.0 ± 13.5% and 69.4 ± 10.4% p = 0.3) or 16‐weeks‐old Wistar rats from Janvier (50.7 ± 11.3 and 49.2 ± 16.2, p = 0.8). There was no difference between sedation with rodent mixture or pentobarbiturate.

Conclusion

The cardioprotective effect of IPC is consistent across rat strains independent of age, strain, and supplier. RIC seems to be less reproducible, but still yields protection across different rat strains. However, age, animal supplier, and anesthetics may modulate the sensitivity of IR‐injury and the response to RIC.

Efficacy of remote limb ischemic conditioning on poststroke cognitive impairment

The impact of remote limb ischemic conditioning on poststroke cognitive impairment was evaluated with 104 first-time patients of noncardiac ischemic stroke. During the acute phase the patients were randomized into control and remote limb ischemic conditioning groups. Both groups received standard treatment, while the remote limb ischemic conditioning group received additional remote limb ischemic conditioning treatment for 6 months. All participants underwent neuropsychological evaluation, transcranial Doppler detection, P300 event-related potential and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity measurements, and determination of serum intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and endothelin-1 levels both at admission and 6 months poststroke. The number of cases with poststroke cognitive impairment in each group was evaluated 6 months poststroke. No statistically significant difference was found in demographic data or baseline detection indices at admission between the two groups. However, at 6 months poststroke, the remote limb ischemic conditioning group had significantly higher total Montreal Cognitive Assessment score and its domains of visuospatial and executive functioning and attention scores, significantly lower activity of daily living scale score, shorter P300 latency, and higher amplitude compared with the control group. Moreover, the middle cerebral artery, average blood flow velocity was significantly higher, while the middle cerebral artery-pulsation index, basilar artery pulsation index, and the levels of brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and endothelin-1 were significantly lower in the remote limb ischemic conditioning group compared with the control group. These results demonstrate that remote limb ischemic conditioning causes a significant improvement in cognitive domains, such as visuospatial and executive functioning and attention, and is therefore linked with reduced incidence of poststroke cognitive impairment.

Remote ischemic conditioning enhances heart and brain antioxidant defense

Background

Ischemia-reperfusion injury contributes to morbidity after revascularization procedures. Along with early reperfusion, tissue conditioning by alternating intervals of brief ischemia-reperfusion episodes is considered the best approach to limit tissue damage. Remote ischemic conditioning is conducted remotely, in tissues other than those under ischemia. Despite this, remote ischemic conditioning protection mechanisms are poorly understood, which can lead to misapplication.

Objectives

To assess whether remote ischemic conditioning works in the heart and brain through enhancement of cells’ antioxidant defenses and whether the response is sustained or temporary.

Methods

Twenty-one male Wistar rats were assigned to three groups (n = 7): SHAM: same procedure as the other groups, but no remote ischemic conditioning was carried out. RIC 10: heart and brain were harvested 10 minutes after the remote ischemic conditioning protocol. RIC 60: heart and brain were harvested 60 minutes after the remote ischemic conditioning protocol. The remote ischemic conditioning protocol consisted of 3 cycles of 5 min left hindlimb ischemia followed by 5 min left hindlimb perfusion, lasting 30 min in total. Heart and brain samples were used to measure the tissue antioxidant capacity.

Results

Remote ischemic conditioning increased heart and brain antioxidant capacity after 10 minutes (0.746 ± 0.160/0.801 ± 0.227 mM/L) when compared to SHAM (0.523 ± 0.078/0.404 ± 0.124 mM/L). No enhancement of heart or brain antioxidant capacity was detected 60 minutes after remote ischemic conditioning (0.551 ± 0.073/0.455 ± 0.107 mM/L).

Conclusions

Remote ischemic conditioning temporarily enhances heart and brain antioxidant defenses in male Wistar rats.

Hidden Cardiotoxicity of Rofecoxib Can be Revealed in Experimental Models of Ischemia/Reperfusion

Cardiac adverse effects are among the leading causes of the discontinuation of clinical trials and the withdrawal of drugs from the market. The novel concept of ‘hidden cardiotoxicity’ is defined as cardiotoxicity of a drug that manifests in the diseased (e.g., ischemic/reperfused), but not in the healthy heart or as a drug-induced deterioration of cardiac stress adaptation (e.g., ischemic conditioning). Here, we aimed to test if the cardiotoxicity of a selective COX-2 inhibitor rofecoxib that was revealed during its clinical use, i.e., increased occurrence of proarrhythmic and thrombotic events, could have been revealed in early phases of drug development by using preclinical models of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Rats that were treated with rofecoxib or vehicle for four weeks were subjected to 30 min. coronary artery occlusion and 120 min. reperfusion with or without cardioprotection that is induced by ischemic preconditioning (IPC). Rofecoxib increased overall the arrhythmias including ventricular fibrillation (VF) during I/R. The proarrhythmic effect of rofecoxib during I/R was not observed in the IPC group. Rofecoxib prolonged the action potential duration (APD) in isolated papillary muscles, which was not seen in the simulated IPC group. Interestingly, while showing hidden cardiotoxicity manifested as a proarrhythmic effect during I/R, rofecoxib decreased the infarct size and increased the survival of adult rat cardiac myocytes that were subjected to simulated I/R injury. This is the first demonstration that rofecoxib increased acute mortality due to its proarrhythmic effect via increased APD during I/R. Rofecoxib did not interfere with the cardiprotective effect of IPC; moreover, IPC was able to protect against rofecoxib-induced hidden cardiotoxicity. These results show that cardiac safety testing with simple preclinical models of I/R injury uncovers hidden cardiotoxicity of rofecoxib and might reveal the hidden cardiotoxicity of other drugs.

Larger infarct size but equal protection by ischemic conditioning in septum and anterior free wall of pigs with LAD occlusion

The ischemic area at risk (AAR) is one major determinant of infarct size (IS). In patients, the largest AAR is seen with a proximal occlusion of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery, which serves parts of the septum and of the anterior free wall. It is not clear, whether regional differences in the perfusion territories also impact on IS and the magnitude of cardioprotection by ischemic conditioning. We have retrospectively analyzed 132 experiments in pigs, which have a similar LAD perfusion territory as humans. The LAD was occluded for 60 min with subsequent 180 min reperfusion. Cardioprotection by either local ischemic pre- or postconditioning or remote ischemic pre- or perconditioning was induced in 93 pigs. The AAR was demarcated by blue dye staining, and IS was assessed by triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. Using digital planimetry, the AAR was separated into sections unequivocally located in the septum (AARS ) or the anterior free wall (AARAFW ). Relative IS was calculated for AARS or AARAFW . AARAFW was larger than AARS (51 ± 9% vs. 34 ± 8% of total AAR; mean ± SD, P < 0.001). Regional myocardial blood flow (microspheres) was not different between septum and anterior free wall. IS without ischemic conditioning tended to be larger in AARS than in AARAFW (50 ± 17% vs. 44 ± 19%; % of AARAWF or AARS , respectively; P = 0.075). Also, with robust IS reduction by ischemic conditioning, the difference in relative IS remained (AARS : 27 ± 16%; AARAFW : 21 ± 16%; P = 0.01). There is a somewhat greater susceptibility for infarction in septal than anterior free wall myocardium. However, ischemic conditioning still reduces IS in both septal and anterior free wall myocardium.

Circular RNAs and neutrophils: Key factors in tackling asymptomatic moyamoya disease

Moyamoya disease (MMD) represents a rare steno-occlusive disorder affecting the terminal ends of the internal carotid artery and promoting the development of a poor, abnormal vascular network at the brain's base. Primarily affecting East Asian countries over Western populations, MMD can be further divided into symptomatic and asymptomatic subtypes. The current knowledge of the underlying mechanisms and potential management strategies for asymptomatic cases of MMD are largely lacking and thus warrant investigation to elucidate the pathology of this rare disorder. Here, we assess research examining the expression profile of circular RNAs (circRNAs) of neutrophil transcriptome in asymptomatic MMD patients. These findings conclude that 123 differentially expressed circRNAs significantly contributed to metabolism, angiogenesis, and immune response. The hypoxia-inducing factor-1α signaling pathway was also revealed to be crucial in angiogenesis. We also evaluate current therapeutic options demonstrating the potential for MMD patients, such as EC-IC bypass and ischemic pre- and post-conditioning. These approaches combined with recent findings on the circRNA expression profile suggest a crucial role of anti-inflammatory and angiogenic-related mechanisms underlying MMD. Investigating the role of circRNAs and neutrophils in the asymptomatic MMD subtype may provide insight into its elusive pathology and direct future approaches to combat the progression of this rare disease.

A Dual Protective Effect of Intestinal Remote Ischemic Conditioning in a Rat Model of Total Hepatic Ischemia

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of intestinal remote ischemic preconditioning (iRIC) on ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) and gut barrier integrity in a rat model of total hepatic ischemia (THI). Male Wistar rats (n = 50; 250–300 g) were randomly allocated into two experimental groups: RIC/Control. Thirty minutes of THI was induced by clamping the hepatoduodenal ligament. iRIC was applied as 4-min of ischemia followed by 11-min of reperfusion by clamping the superior mesenteric artery. Animals were sacrificed at 1, 2, 6, 24 h post-reperfusion (n = 5/group/timepoint). RIC of the gut significantly improved microcirculation of the ileum and the liver. Tissue ATP-levels were higher following iRIC (Liver: 1.34 ± 0.12 vs. 0.97 ± 0.20 μmol/g, p = 0.04) and hepatocellular injury was reduced significantly (ALT: 2409 ± 447 vs. 6613 ± 1117 IU/L, p = 0.003). Systemic- and portal venous IL-6 and TNF-alpha levels were markedly lower following iRIC, demonstrating a reduced inflammatory response. iRIC led to a structural and functional preservation of the intestinal barrier. These results suggest that iRIC might confer a potent protection against the detrimental effects of THI in rats via reducing IRI and systemic inflammatory responses and at the same time by mitigating the dramatic consequences of severe intestinal congestion and bacterial translocation.

Vago-Splenic Axis in Signal Transduction of Remote Ischemic Preconditioning in Pigs and Rats

RATIONALE

The signal transduction of remote ischemic conditioning is still largely unknown.

OBJECTIVE

Characterization of neurohumoral signal transfer and vago-splenic axis in remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Anesthetized pigs were subjected to 60 minutes of coronary occlusion and 180 minutes of reperfusion (placebo+ischemia/reperfusion [PLA+I/R]). RIPC was induced by 4×5/5 minutes of hindlimb I/R 90 minutes before coronary occlusion (RIPC+I/R). Arterial blood samples were taken after placebo or RIPC before I/R. In subgroups of pigs, bilateral cervical vagotomy, splenectomy, or splenic denervation were performed before PLA+I/R or RIPC+I/R, respectively. In pigs with RIPC+I/R, infarct size (percentage of area at risk) was less than in those with PLA+I/R (23±12% versus 45±8%); splenectomy or splenic denervation abrogated (splenectomy+RIPC+I/R: 38±15%; splenic denervation+RIPC+I/R: 43±5%), and vagotomy attenuated (vagotomy+RIPC+I/R: 36±11%) RIPC protection. RIPC increased phosphorylation of STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) in left ventricular biopsies taken at early reperfusion. Splenectomy or splenic denervation, but not vagotomy, abolished this increased phosphorylation. In rats with vagotomy, splenectomy, or splenic denervation, RIPC (3×5/5 minutes of hindlimb occlusion/reperfusion) or placebo was performed, respectively. Hearts were isolated, saline perfused, and subjected to 30/120-minute global I/R. With RIPC, infarct size (percentage of ventricular mass) was less (20±7%) than with placebo (37±6%), and vagotomy, splenectomy, or splenic denervation abrogated RIPC protection (38±12%, 36±9%, and 36±7%), respectively. Rat spleens were isolated, saline perfused, and splenic effluate (SEff) was sampled after infusion with carbachol (SEff_carbachol) or saline (SEff_saline). Pig plasma or SEff was infused into isolated perfused rat hearts subjected to global I/R. Infarct size was less with infusion of RIPC+I/R_plasma+ (24±6%) than with PLA+I/R_plasma (40±8%), vagotomy+PLA+I/R_plasma (39±11%), splenectomy+PLA+I/R_plasma (35±8%), vagotomy+RIPC+I/R_plasma (40±9%), splenectomy+RIPC+I/R_plasma (33±9%), or splenic denervation+RIPC+I/R_plasma (39±8%), respectively. With infusion of SEff_carbachol, infarct size was less than with infusion of SEff_saline (24 [19-27]% versus 35 [32-38]%).

CONCLUSIONS

Activation of a vago-splenic axis is causally involved in RIPC cardioprotection.

Recent Advances in Pharmacological and Non-Pharmacological Strategies of Cardioprotection

Ischemic heart diseases (IHD) are the leading cause of death worldwide. Although the principal form of treatment of IHD is myocardial reperfusion, the recovery of coronary blood flow after ischemia can cause severe and fatal cardiac dysfunctions, mainly due to the abrupt entry of oxygen and ionic deregulation in cardiac cells. The ability of these cells to protect themselves against injury including ischemia and reperfusion (I/R), has been termed “cardioprotection”. This protective response can be stimulated by pharmacological agents (adenosine, catecholamines and others) and non-pharmacological procedures (conditioning, hypoxia and others). Several intracellular signaling pathways mediated by chemical messengers (enzymes, protein kinases, transcription factors and others) and cytoplasmic organelles (mitochondria, sarcoplasmic reticulum, nucleus and sarcolemma) are involved in cardioprotective responses. Therefore, advancement in understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the cardioprotective response can lead to the development of new pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies for cardioprotection, thus contributing to increasing the efficacy of IHD treatment. In this work, we analyze the recent advances in pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies of cardioprotection.

Early Immunological Effects of Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: No Modulation by Ischemic Preconditioning in a Randomised Crossover Trial in Healthy Humans

Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) has been protective against ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), but the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. We examined whether IPC modulates the early inflammatory response after IRI. Nineteen healthy males participated in a randomised crossover trial with and without IPC before IRI. IPC and IRI were performed by cuff inflation on the forearm. IPC consisted of four cycles of five minutes followed by five minutes of reperfusion. IRI consisted of twenty minutes followed by 15 min of reperfusion. Blood was collected at baseline, 0 min, 85 min and 24 h after IRI. Circulating monocytes, T-cells subsets and dendritic cells together with intracellular activation markers were quantified by flow cytometry. Luminex measured a panel of inflammation-related cytokines in plasma. IRI resulted in dynamic regulations of the measured immune cells and their intracellular activation markers, however IPC did not significantly alter these patterns. Neither IRI nor the IPC protocol significantly affected the levels of inflammatory-related cytokines. In healthy volunteers, it was not possible to detect an effect of the investigated IPC-protocol on early IRI-induced inflammatory responses. This study indicates that protective effects of IPC on IRI is not explained by direct modulation of early inflammatory events.

Two weeks of ischemic conditioning improves walking speed and reduces neuromuscular fatigability in chronic stroke survivors

This pilot study examined whether ischemic conditioning (IC), a noninvasive, cost-effective, and easy-to-administer intervention, could improve gait speed and paretic leg muscle function in stroke survivors. We hypothesized that 2 wk of IC training would increase self-selected walking speed, increase paretic muscle strength, and reduce neuromuscular fatigability in chronic stroke survivors. Twenty-two chronic stroke survivors received either IC or IC Sham on their paretic leg every other day for 2 wk (7 total sessions). IC involved 5-min bouts of ischemia, repeated five times, using a cuff inflated to 225 mmHg on the paretic thigh. For IC Sham, the cuff inflation pressure was 10 mmHg. Self-selected walking speed was assessed using the 10-m walk test, and paretic leg knee extensor strength and fatigability were assessed using a Biodex dynamometer. Self-selected walking speed increased in the IC group (0.86 ± 0.21 m/s pretest vs. 1.04 ± 0.22 m/s posttest, means ± SD; P < 0.001) but not in the IC Sham group (0.92 ± 0.47 m/s pretest vs. 0.96 ± 0.46 m/s posttest; P = 0.25). Paretic leg maximum voluntary contractions were unchanged in both groups (103 ± 57 N·m pre-IC vs. 109 ± 65 N·m post-IC; 103 ± 59 N·m pre-IC Sham vs. 108 ± 67 N·m post-IC Sham; P = 0.81); however, participants in the IC group maintained a submaximal isometric contraction longer than participants in the IC Sham group (278 ± 163 s pre-IC vs. 496 ± 313 s post-IC, P = 0.004; 397 ± 203 s pre-IC Sham vs. 355 ± 195 s post-IC Sham; P = 0.46). The results from this pilot study thus indicate that IC training has the potential to improve walking speed and paretic muscle fatigue resistance poststroke. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This pilot study is the first to demonstrate that ischemic conditioning can improve self-selected walking speed and reduce paretic muscle fatigue in stroke survivors. Ischemic conditioning has been shown to be safe in numerous patient populations, can be accomplished at home or at the bedside in only 45 min, and requires no specialized training. Future larger studies are warranted to determine the efficacy of ischemic conditioning as a neurorehabilitation therapy poststroke.

Effect of Platelet GPIIb/IIIa Receptor Blockade With MK383 on Infarct Size and Myocardial Blood Flow in a Canine Reocclusion Model

Platelet activation and aggregation during ischemia influence reperfusion-related myocyte necrosis, myocardial perfusion at the microvascular level, and thereby eventual recovery of cardiac performance. Inhibition of platelet activity therefore represents a worthwhile target to reduce cellular injury. The current study examined the effects of MK383 (tirofiban), a potent inhibitor of platelet aggregation, on infarct size and myocardial perfusion in canine subjects to either reocclusion (ie, 120-minute + 60-minute ischemia with intervening reperfusion) or prolonged occlusion (ie, 3 hours) followed by reperfusion (180 minutes). Platelet aggregation, infarct size (tetrazolium staining), coronary blood flow (flow probe), coronary vascular reserve, and myocardial perfusion (microspheres) were evaluated. MK383, administered at the time of reperfusion, produced a modest reduction of tissue necrosis (compared to saline-treated controls) in the reocclusion and prolonged occlusion studies. Blood flow in the infarct-related artery after coronary occlusion was comparable between treatment groups, as was myocardial perfusion in the deeper layers of the ischemic region; coronary vascular reserve decreased progressively during reperfusion. Of note, compensatory changes in blood flow within the adjacent nonischemic myocardium were not observed. In conclusion, we report that that limiting platelet aggregation during reperfusion impacted infarct development. Continued investigation into the mechanisms by which inhibition of platelet activity protects myocardium against ischemia-reperfusion injury and improves clinical outcomes is necessary.

Neovascularization after ischemic conditioning of the stomach and the influence of follow-up neoadjuvant chemotherapy thereon

Introduction

Esophagectomy and reconstruction remain the optimal treatment for patients with resectable esophageal cancer. Neovascularization after ischemic conditioning of the stomach before esophagectomy is a laparoscopic procedure which may potentially reduce gastric conduit ischemia.

Aim

To investigate the influence of ischemic conditioning on neovascularization along the greater curvature of the stomach and to explore the effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on neovascularization after ischemic conditioning.

Material and methods

Staging laparoscopy was performed before the main resection procedure; during this procedure ischemic conditioning was performed. Samples taken from the human stomach were divided into 3 groups: group A – patients after ischemic conditioning with a delay of 30–45 days after left gastric artery (LGA) ligation (n = 4); group B – patients who were undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy with a delay of 90–140 days after left gastric artery ligation (n = 4); and control group C – patients without ischemic conditioning (n = 7).

Results

After ischemic conditioning with a delay of 30–45 days, the count of neovessels along the greater curvature of the stomach increased from 5.4 ±0.7 in the control group to 17.5 ±0.9 in a low-power field of view (LPF) in group A and increased still further on average to 19.8 ±10.4 in group B.

Conclusions

Left gastric artery ligation only is a sufficient procedure for ischemic conditioning of the stomach. Neovascularization along the greater curvature is a continuous process that depends on delay time. Neoadjuvant therapy has no influence on the effect of neovascularization.

The Role of Platelets in Ischemic Conditioning

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Platelets, as the main regulators of hemostasis, are major players in acute myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI). Additionally, platelets are modified by endogenous cardioprotective strategies such as ischemic preconditioning, postconditioning, and remote ischemic conditioning. In this article, we provide an overview of the functionional role of platelets in acute myocardial IRI, and highlight their potential as targets for cardioprotection to improve health outcomes in patients with IHD.

Responses of Endothelial Cells Towards Ischemic Conditioning Following Acute Myocardial Infarction

One of the primary therapeutic goals of modern cardiology is to design strategies aimed at minimizing myocardial infarct size and optimizing cardiac function following acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Patients with AMI who underwent reperfusion therapy display dysfunction of the coronary endothelium. Consequently, ischemic endothelial cells become more permeable and weaken their natural anti-thrombotic and anti-inflammatory potential. Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is associated with activation of the humoral and cellular components of the hemostatic and innate immune system, and also with excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the inhibition of nitric oxide synthase, and with inflammatory processes. Given its essential role in the regulation of vascular homeostasis, involving platelets and leukocytes among others, dysfunctional endothelium can lead to increased risk of coronary vasospasm and thrombosis. Endothelial dysfunction can be prevented by ischemic conditioning with a protective intervention based on limited intermittent periods of ischemia and reperfusion. The molecular mechanisms and signal transduction pathways underlying conditioning phenomena in the coronary endothelium have been described as involving less ROS production, reduced adhesion of neutrophils to endothelial cells and diminished inflammatory reactions. This review summarizes our current understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating IRI-affected and -damaged coronary endothelium, and how ischemic conditioning may preserve its function.

Quantitative impact analysis of remote ischemic conditioning and capsaicin application on human skin microcirculation

BACKGROUND

Improvement of skin microcirculation would be beneficial in transplanted tissues and thus, there is a demand for effective, reliable and harmless angiogenic treatments. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of capsaicin application (CA), the remote effect of capsaicin application (REC), the impact of remote ischemic conditioning (RIC), and the impact of combined remote ischemic conditioning with capsaicin application (Comb) on human skin microcirculation.

METHODS

Perfusion changes were assessed using a laser Doppler device (easyLDI, Aimago Lausanne). 30 healthy volunteers were enrolled and divided into two groups: 1) CA and REC: perfusion was assessed on both forearms after application of capsaicin cream on one forearm with an exposure time of 40 minutes. 2) RIC and Comb: perfusion of one forearm was assessed after four cycles of 5 min blood occlusion and 5 min reperfusion using a tourniquet on the contralateral upper arm and application of capsaicin on the ipsilateral forearm. Baseline skin perfusion measurements of both forearms were carried out initially and were used as intra-individual reference.

RESULTS

1) Skin perfusion significantly increased after capsaicin application (CA = +328.3% , p > 0.05). There was no remote skin perfusion change due to capsaicin (REC). 2) RIC significantly improves skin perfusion (RIC = +20.0% , p < 0.05). The combination of RIC and CA does not improve skin perfusion compared to CA alone (Comb).

CONCLUSIONS

The conditioning techniques RIC and CA showed a significant increase in human skin perfusion, CA being superior to RIC. However, the combination of CA and RIC showed no additional improvement potential as compared to CA alone. Furthermore, a remote effect of capsaicin application could not be demonstrated. These results encourage to analyze if the conditioning treatments are also beneficial for transplanted tissue survival.

Ischemic conditioning increases strength and volitional activation of paretic muscle in chronic stroke: a pilot study

Ischemic conditioning (IC) on the arm or leg has emerged as an intervention to improve strength and performance in healthy populations, but the effects on neurological populations are unknown. The purpose of this study was to quantify the effects of a single session of IC on knee extensor strength and muscle activation in chronic stroke survivors. Maximal knee extensor torque measurements and surface EMG were quantified in 10 chronic stroke survivors (>1 yr poststroke) with hemiparesis before and after a single session of IC or sham on the paretic leg. IC consisted of 5 min of compression with a proximal thigh cuff (inflation pressure = 225 mmHg for IC or 25 mmHg for sham) followed by 5 min of rest. This was repeated five times. Maximal knee extensor strength, EMG magnitude, and motor unit firing behavior were measured before and immediately after IC or sham. IC increased paretic leg strength by 10.6 ± 8.5 Nm, whereas no difference was observed in the sham group (change in sham = 1.3 ± 2.9 Nm, P = 0.001 IC vs. sham). IC-induced increases in strength were accompanied by a 31 ± 15% increase in the magnitude of muscle EMG during maximal contractions and a 5% decrease in motor unit recruitment thresholds during submaximal contractions. Individuals who had the most asymmetry in strength between their paretic and nonparetic legs had the largest increases in strength ( r² = 0.54). This study provides evidence that a single session of IC can increase strength through improved muscle activation in chronic stroke survivors. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Present rehabilitation strategies for chronic stroke survivors do not optimally activate paretic muscle, and this limits potential strength gains. Ischemic conditioning of a limb has emerged as an effective strategy to improve muscle performance in healthy individuals but has never been tested in neurological populations. In this study, we show that ischemic conditioning on the paretic leg of chronic stroke survivors can increase leg strength and muscle activation while reducing motor unit recruitment thresholds.

Inhibition of Na+/H+ Exchanger With EMD 87580 does not Confer Greater Cardioprotection Beyond Preconditioning on Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Normal Dogs

Postischemic accumulation of intracellular Na⁺ promotes calcium overload and contributes to cellular necrosis. Cardioprotection afforded by pharmacologic blockade of the sodium-hydrogen exchanger subtype 1 (NHE1) is thought to be more remarkable than that obtained by ischemic conditioning (IC). The window of protection provided by IC pretreatment is maintained even when performed up to 48 hours before ischemia. In addition, the perception exists that combined NHE1 inhibition plus IC produces greater than additive protection against ischemic injury. The current study compared the efficacy of NHE1 blockade by N-[2-methyl-4,5-bis(methylsulfonyl)-benzoyl]-guanidine (EMD 87580 5 mg/kg) combined with first- or second-window IC on ischemic tolerance in dogs subject to 90-minute acute ischemia and 180-minute reperfusion. Infarct size (tetrazolium staining), vascular responses, and myocardial perfusion (microspheres) were assessed. EMD 87580 given before ischemia or before reperfusion did not reduce infarct size (compared to vehicle-treated group). Significant protection against tissue necrosis was obtained by both first- and second-window IC, but additive cardioprotection (ie, greater than that afforded by IC) was not observed by treatment with EMD 87580. Vascular reactivity in the infarct-related artery was not preserved after ischemia-reperfusion in any of the experimental groups. Likewise, either the pharmacologic or the nonpharmacologic interventions did not modify myocardial perfusion. These data demonstrate that EMD 87580 did not protect against ischemia-reperfusion injury regardless of the time of drug administration. Combined EMD 87580 and IC did not antagonize protection that was achieved by either first- or second-window IC alone; no additive protection beyond preconditioning was obtained. Further study is necessary to assess the value of NHE1 blockers as protective agents against myocardial injury.

Reflection of Cardioprotection by Remote Ischemic Perconditioning in Attenuated ST-Segment Elevation During Ongoing Coronary Occlusion in Pigs: Evidence for Cardioprotection From Ischemic Injury

RATIONALE

Reduction of infarct size by remote ischemic perconditioning (perRIC) is evident only after several hours reperfusion.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a potential real-time estimate of cardioprotection by perRIC, we have analyzed the time course of ST-segment elevation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Anesthetized open-chest pigs were subjected to 60-minute coronary occlusion and 180-minute reperfusion (placebo; n=19). PerRIC (n=18; 4×5 min/5 min hindlimb occlusion/reperfusion) was induced 20 minutes after coronary occlusion. Regional myocardial blood flow was measured with microspheres, areas of no-reflow with thioflavin-S, area at risk with blue dye, and infarct size with triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining. Phosphorylation of protein kinase B α/β/γ, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 was determined by Western blot. ST-segment elevation was analyzed in a V2-like ECG-lead at baseline, 5- and 55-minute coronary occlusion, and 10-, 30-, 60-, and 120-minute reperfusion. Transmural blood flow at 5-minute coronary occlusion was not different between perRIC (0.029±0.015 mL/min per gram; mean±SD) and placebo (0.024±0.018 mL/min per gram) as was area at risk (perRIC: 24±6% of the left ventricle; placebo: 21±4%). Areas of no-reflow tended to be smaller with perRIC (9±12% of area at risk versus 15±14% with placebo; P=0.13). Infarct size with perRIC was 23±12% of area at risk versus 40±11% with placebo (P<0.001). PerRIC increased phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 at 120-minute reperfusion by 196±142% versus 109±120% with placebo (P=0.047). The time courses of ST-segment elevation in perRIC and placebo protocols, respectively, were different (P=0.017). With similar ST-segment elevation at 5-minute coronary occlusion (perRIC 282±34 µV; placebo 259±28 µV), partial recovery of ST-segment elevation between 5- and 55-minute coronary occlusion was more pronounced with perRIC than placebo (by 111±84 versus 15±94 µV; P=0.028).

CONCLUSION

Infarct size reduction by perRIC is reflected in the ST-segment elevation during coronary occlusion in pigs, supporting the notion of protection from ischemic injury.

Limb Remote Ischemic Conditioning: Mechanisms, Anesthetics, and the Potential for Expanding Therapeutic Options

Novel and innovative approaches are essential in developing new treatments and improving clinical outcomes in patients with ischemic stroke. Remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) is a series of mechanical interruptions in blood flow of a distal organ, following end organ reperfusion, shown to significantly reduce infarct size through inhibition of oxidation and inflammation. Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) is what ultimately leads to the irreversible brain damage and clinical picture seen in stroke patients. There have been several reports and reviews about the potential of RIC in acute ischemic stroke; however, the focus here is a comprehensive look at the differences in the three types of RIC (remote pre-, per-, and postconditioning). There are some limited uses of preconditioning in acute ischemic stroke due to the unpredictability of the ischemic event; however, it does provide the identification of biomarkers for clinical studies. Remote limb per- and postconditioning offer a more promising treatment during patient care as they can be harnessed during or after the initial ischemic insult. Though further research is needed, it is imperative to discuss the importance of preclinical data in understanding the methods and mechanisms involved in RIC. This understanding will facilitate translation to a clinically feasible paradigm for use in the hospital setting.

A systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating ischemic conditioning during percutaneous coronary intervention

AIM

A systematic review and meta-analysis, evaluating ischemic conditioning during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS & RESULTS

A database search of randomized trials of ischemic conditioning in PCI created three subgroups for meta-analysis: mortality in elective PCI with remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPreC; subgroup 1a, n = 3) - no outcome difference between RIPreC and control (odds ratio: 0.34; 95% CI: 0.08-1.56), myocardial salvage index in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with RIPreC (subgroup 1b, n = 2) - favored RIPreC (mean difference: 0.13; 95% CI: 0.07-0.19), and infarct size in STEMI with local ischemic postconditioning (LIPostC) (subgroup 4b, n = 12) - favored LIPostC (mean difference: -4.13 g.m^-2; 95% CI: -7.36 to -0.90 g.m^-2).

CONCLUSION

RIPreC and LIPostC improve myocardial salvage index and myocardial infarct size respectively in PCI for STEMI. No mortality benefit detected with RIPreC in elective PCI.

Impact of electrical defibrillation on infarct size and no-reflow in pigs subjected to myocardial ischemia-reperfusion without and with ischemic conditioning

Ventricular fibrillation (VF) occurs frequently during myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) and must then be terminated by electrical defibrillation. We have investigated the impact of VF/defibrillation on infarct size (IS) or area of no reflow (NR) without and with ischemic conditioning interventions. Anesthetized pigs were subjected to 60/180 min of coronary occlusion/reperfusion. VF, as identified from the ECG, was terminated by intrathoracic defibrillation. The area at risk (AAR), IS, and NR were determined by staining techniques (patent blue, triphenyltetrazolium chloride, and thioflavin-S). Four experimental protocols were analyzed: I/R (n = 49), I/R with ischemic preconditioning (IPC; n = 22), I/R with ischemic postconditioning (POCO; n = 22), or I/R with remote IPC (RIPC; n = 34). The incidence of VF was not different between I/R (44%), IPC (45%), POCO (50%), and RIPC (33%). IS was reduced by IPC (23 ± 12% of AAR), POCO (31 ± 16%), and RIPC (22 ± 13%, all P < 0.05 vs. I/R: 41 ± 12%). NR was not different between protocols (I/R: 17 ± 15% of AAR, IPC: 15 ± 18%, POCO: 25 ± 16%, and RIPC: 18 ± 17%). In pigs with defibrillation, IS was 50% larger than in pigs without defibrillation but independent of the number of defibrillations. Analysis of covariance confirmed the established determinants of IS, i.e., AAR, residual blood flow during ischemia (RMBFi), and a conditioning protocol, and revealed VF/defibrillation as a novel covariate. VF/defibrillation in turn was associated with larger AAR and lower RMBFi. Lack of dose-response relation between IS and the number of defibrillations excluded direct electrical injury as the cause of increased IS. Obviously, AAR size and RMBFi account for both IS and the incidence of VF. IS and NR are mechanistically distinct phenomena.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Ventricular fibrillation/defibrillation is associated with increased infarct size. Electrical injury is unlikely the cause of such association, since there is no dose-response relation between infarct size and number of defibrillations. Ventricular fibrillation, in turn, is associated with a larger area at risk and lower residual blood flow.

Limb Remote Ischemic Conditioning Promotes Myelination by Upregulating PTEN/Akt/mTOR Signaling Activities after Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion

Limb Remote ischemic conditioning (LRIC) has been proved to be a promising neuroprotective method in white matter lesions after ischemia; however, its mechanism underlying protection after chronic cerebral hypoperfusion remains largely unknown. Here, we investigated whether LRIC promoted myelin growth by activating PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway in a rat chronic hypoperfusion model. Thirty adult male Sprague Dawley underwent permanent double carotid artery (2VO), and limb remote ischemic conditioning was applied for 3 days after the 2VO surgery. Cognitive function, oligodendrocyte counts, myelin density, apoptosis and proliferation activity, as well as PTEN/Akt/mTOR signaling activity were determined 4 weeks after treatment. We found that LRIC significantly inhibited oligodendrocytes apoptosis (p<0.05), promoted myelination (p<0.01) in the corpus callosum and improved spatial learning impairment (p<0.05) at 4 weeks after chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. Oligodendrocytes proliferation, along with demyelination, in corpus callosum were not obviously affected by LRIC (p>0.05). Western blot analysis indicated that LRIC upregulated PTEN/Akt/mTOR signaling activities in corpus callosum (p<0.05). Our results suggest that LRIC exerts neuroprotective effect on white matter injuries through activating PTEN/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway after chronic cerebral hypoperfusion.

Remote Ischemic Conditioning and Renal Protection

Over the course of the last 2 decades, the concept of remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) has attracted considerable research interest, because RIC, in most of its embodiments offers an inexpensive way of protecting tissues against ischemic damage inflicted by a number of medical conditions or procedures. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common side effect in the context of various medical procedures, and RIC has been suggested as a means of reducing its incidence. Outcomes regarding kidney function have been reported in numerous studies that evaluated the effects of RIC in a variety of settings (eg, cardiac surgery, interventions requiring intravenous administration of contrast media). Although several individual studies have implied a beneficial effect of RIC in preserving kidney function, 3 recently published randomized controlled trials evaluating more than 1000 patients each (Effect of Remote Ischemic Preconditioning in the Cardiac Surgery, Remote Ischaemic Preconditioning for Heart Surgery, and ERICCA) were negative. However, AKI or any other index of renal function was not a stand-alone primary end point in any of these trials. On the other hand, a range of meta-analyses (each including thousands of participants) have reported mixed results, with the most recent among them showing benefit from RIC, pinpointing at the same time a number of shortcomings in published studies, adversely affecting the quality of available data. The present review provides a critical appraisal of the current state of this field of research. It is the opinion of the authors of this review that there is a clear need for a common clinical trial framework for ischemic conditioning studies. If the current babel of definitions, procedures, outcomes, and goals persists, it is most likely that soon ischemic conditioning will be "yesterday's news" with no definitive conclusions having been reached in terms of its real clinical utility.

Tackling issues in the path toward clinical translation in brain conditioning: Potential offered by nutraceuticals

Brief periods of ischemia have been shown in many experimental setups to provide tolerance against ischemia in multiple organs including the brain, when administered before (preconditioning) or even after (postconditioning) the normally lethal ischemia. In addition to these so-called ischemic conditionings, many pharmacological and natural agents (e.g., chemicals and nutraceuticals) can also act as potent pre- and post-conditioners. Deriving from the original concept of ischemic preconditioning, these various conditioning paradigms may be promising as clinical-stage therapies for prevention of ischemic-related injury, especially stroke. As no proven experimentally identified strategy has translated into clinical success, the experimental induction of neuroprotection using these various conditioning paradigms has raised several questions, even before considering translation to clinical studies in humans. The first aim of the review is to consider key questions on preclinical studies of pre- or post-conditioning modalities including those induced by chemical or nutraceuticals. Second, we make the argument that several key issues can be addressed by a novel concept, nutraceutical preconditioning. Specifically, α-linolenic acid (alpha-linolenic acid [ALA] an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid), contained in plant-derived edible products, is essential in the daily diet, and a body of work has identified ALA as a pre- and post-conditioner of the brain. Nutritional intervention and functional food development are an emerging direction for preventing stroke damage, offering the potential to improving clinical outcomes through activation of the endogenous protective mechanisms known collectively as conditioning.

RECAST (Remote Ischemic Conditioning After Stroke Trial): A Pilot Randomized Placebo Controlled Phase II Trial in Acute Ischemic Stroke

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Repeated episodes of limb ischemia and reperfusion (remote ischemic conditioning [RIC]) may improve outcome after acute stroke.

METHODS

We performed a pilot blinded placebo-controlled trial in patients with acute ischemic stroke, randomized 1:1 to receive 4 cycles of RIC within 24 hours of ictus. The primary outcome was tolerability and feasibility. Secondary outcomes included safety, clinical efficacy (day 90), putative biomarkers (pre- and post-intervention, day 4), and exploratory hemodynamic measures.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients (13 RIC and 13 sham) were recruited 15.8 hours (SD 6.2) post-onset, age 76.2 years (SD 10.5), blood pressure 159/83 mm Hg (SD 25/11), and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score 5 (interquartile range, 3.75-9.25). RIC was well tolerated with 49 out of 52 cycles completed in full. Three patients experienced vascular events in the sham group: 2 ischemic strokes and 2 myocardial infarcts versus none in the RIC group (P=0.076, log-rank test). Compared with sham, there was a significant decrease in day 90 NIHSS score in the RIC group, median NIHSS score 1 (interquartile range, 0.5-5) versus 3 (interquartile range, 2-9.5; P=0.04); RIC augmented plasma HSP27 (heat shock protein 27; P<0.05, repeated 2-way ANOVA) and phosphorylated HSP27 (P<0.001) but not plasma S100-β, matrix metalloproteinase-9, endocannabinoids, or arterial compliance.

CONCLUSIONS

RIC after acute stroke is well tolerated and appears safe and feasible. RIC may improve neurological outcome, and protective mechanisms may be mediated through HSP27. A larger trial is warranted.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

URL: http://www.isrctn.com. Unique identifier: ISRCTN86672015.

Novel cardioprotective and regenerative therapies in acute myocardial infarction: a review of recent and ongoing clinical trials

Following the original large-scale randomized trials of aspirin and β-blockade, there have been a number of major advances in pharmacological and mechanical treatments for acute myocardial infarction. Despite this progress, myocardial infarction remains a major global cause of mortality and morbidity, driving a quest for novel treatments in this area. As the understanding of mitochondrial dynamics and the pathophysiology of reperfusion injury has evolved, the last three decades have seen advances in ischemic conditioning, pharmacological and metabolic cardioprotection, as well as biological and stem-cell therapies. The aim of this review is to provide a synopsis of adjunctive cardioprotective and regenerative therapies currently undergoing or entering early clinical trials in the treatment of patients with acute myocardial infarction.

Rationale for ischemic conditioning to prevent stroke in patients with intracranial arterial stenosis

Intracranial atherosclerotic arterial stenosis (ICAS) is one of the most common causes of stroke worldwide and is associated with particularly a high risk of recurrent stroke. Although aggressive medical management, consisting of dual antiplatelet therapy and intensive control of vascular risk factors, has improved the prognosis of patients with ICAS, subgroups of patients remain at very high risk of stroke. More effective therapies for these high-risk patients are urgently needed. One promising treatment is remote limb ischemic conditioning, which involves producing repetitive, transient ischemia of a limb by inflating a blood pressure cuff with the intention of protecting the brain from subsequent ischemia. In this study, we review the limitations of currently available treatments, discuss the potential mechanisms of action of ischemic conditioning, describe the preclinical and clinical data suggesting a possible role of ischemic conditioning in treating patients with ICAS, and outline the questions that still need to be answered in future studies of ischemic conditioning in subjects with ICAS.

Chemical Conditioning as an Approach to Ischemic Stroke Tolerance: Mitochondria as the Target

It is well established that the brain can be prepared to resist or tolerate ischemic stroke injury, and mitochondrion is a major target for this tolerance. The preparation of ischemic stroke tolerance can be achieved by three major approaches: ischemic conditioning, hypoxic conditioning and chemical conditioning. In each conditioning approach, there are often two strategies that can be used to achieve the conditioning effects, namely preconditioning (Pre-C) and postconditioning (Post-C). In this review, we focus on chemical conditioning of mitochondrial proteins as targets for neuroprotection against ischemic stroke injury. Mitochondrial targets covered include complexes I, II, IV, the ATP-sensitive potassium channel (mitoKATP), adenine dinucleotide translocase (ANT) and the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). While numerous mitochondrial proteins have not been evaluated in the context of chemical conditioning and ischemic stroke tolerance, the paradigms and approaches reviewed in this article should provide general guidelines on testing those mitochondrial components that have not been investigated. A deep understanding of mitochondria as the target of chemical conditioning for ischemic stroke tolerance should provide valuable insights into strategies for fighting ischemic stroke, a leading cause of death in the world.

From ischemic conditioning to 'hyperconditioning': clinical phenomenon and basic science opportunity

Thousands of articles have been published on the topic of ischemic conditioning. Nevertheless, relatively little attention has been given to assessment of conditioning's dose-response characteristics. Specifically, the consequences of multiple conditioning episodes, what we will term "hyperconditioning", have seldom been examined. We propose that hyperconditioning warrants investigation because it; (1) may be of clinical importance, (2) could provide insight into conditioning mechanisms, and (3) might result in development of novel models of human disease. The prevalence of angina pectoris and intermittent claudication is sufficiently high and the potential for daily ischemia-reperfusion episodes sufficiently large that hyperconditioning is a clinically relevant phenomenon. In basic science, attenuation of conditioning-mediated infarct size reduction found in some studies after hyperconditioning offers a possible means to facilitate further discernment of cardioprotective signaling pathways. Moreover, hyperconditioning's impact extends beyond cytoprotection to tissue structural elements. Several studies demonstrate that hyperconditioning produces collagen injury (primarily fiber breakage). Such structural impairment could have adverse clinical consequences; however, in laboratory studies, selective collagen damage could provide the basis for models of cardiac rupture and dilated cardiomyopathy. Accordingly, we propose that hyperconditioning represents the dark, but potentially illuminating, side of ischemic conditioning - a paradigm that merits attention and prospective evaluation.

Induction of ischemic tolerance as a promising treatment against diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of acquired blindness, and it is the most common ischemic disorder of the retina. Available treatments are not very effective. Efforts to inhibit diabetic retinopathy have focused either on highly specific therapeutic approaches for pharmacologic targets or using genetic approaches to change expression of certain enzymes. However, it might be wise to choose innovative treatment modalities that act by multiple potential mechanisms. The resistance to ischemic injury, or ischemic tolerance, can be transiently induced by prior exposure to a non-injurious preconditioning stimulus. A complete functional and histologic protection against retinal ischemic damage can be achieved by previous preconditioning with non-damaging ischemia. In this review, we will discuss evidence that supports that ischemic conditioning could help avert the dreaded consequences that results from retinal diabetic damage.

Surrogate and clinical outcomes following ischemic postconditioning during primary percutaneous coronary intervention of ST--segment elevation myocardial infarction: a meta-analysis of 15 randomized trials

OBJECTIVES

To conduct a meta-analysis on surrogate and clinical outcomes with myocardial ischemic postconditioning (IPoC) following revascularization with primary percutaneous intervention (PPCI) for ST-segment myocardial infarction (STEMI) compared with PPCI alone.

BACKGROUND

Reperfusion injury remains an important problem following PPCI for STEMI. Trials of IPoC have mainly focused on cardiac biomarkers; the impact on clinical outcomes is unknown.

METHODS

Clinical trials that randomized STEMI patients to IPoC as compared with conventional PPCI were included for analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 15 randomized trials with 1,545 patients met our selection criteria (785 underwent IPoC + PPCI, 760 PPCI alone). Mean follow-up for clinical outcomes was 4.7 months. The mean ischemic time was 225 min. ST-segment resolution (Relative Risk [RR] = 0.98; 95% Confidence Intervals [CI] 0.85-1.13; P = 0.75) and infarct size (Weighted mean difference [WMD] = -2.53%, 95% CI -6.10 to 1.05; P = 0.17) were similar between the IPoC + PPCI vs. PPCI arms. Left ventricular ejection fraction at follow-up was marginally higher in the IPoC (WMD = 4.15%, 95% CI 0.19-8.12%, P = 0.04). No differences were noted in any of the clinical outcomes studied, including mortality (RR = 1.52; 95% CI 0.77-2.99; P = 0.23), recurrent MI (RR = 3.04; 95% CI 0.74-12.54; P = 0.12); stent thrombosis (RR = 1.24, 95% CI 0.51-3.04; P = 0.83) or the composite MACE outcome (RR = 1.53; 95% CI 0.89-2.63; P = 0.13).

CONCLUSIONS

IPoC following PPCI is not associated with improvements in surrogate or clinical outcomes at 5 months as compared with PPCI alone. Our findings indicate no role for IPoC in the routine management of patients with STEMI.

Vascular endothelial growth factor expression following ischemic conditioning of the gastric conduit

The partial devascularization of the stomach, necessary for esophageal reconstruction with a gastric conduit, impairs microcirculation in the anastomotic region of the gastric fundus. Ischemic conditioning of the gastric tube is considered as a possible approach to improve microcirculation in the gastric mucosa. The aim of this study was to investigate whether ischemic conditioning induces neo-angiogenesis in the gastric fundus by expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Twenty patients with an esophageal carcinoma scheduled for esophagectomy and gastric reconstruction were included. To compare VEGF expression before and after ischemic conditioning, preoperative endoscopic biopsies were taken from the gastric fundus. The surgical procedure consisted of two separate steps, the complete gastric mobilization including partial devascularization of the stomach and after a delay of 4-5 days high transthoracic esophagectomy with intrathoracic gastric reconstruction (Ivor-Lewis procedure). The second tissue sample was obtained from the donut of the stapled esophagogastrostomy. For further work-up, preoperative biopsies and the gastric donuts were fixed in liquid nitrogen. Preoperative and intraoperative VEGF expression was measured by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (VEGF×100/β-actin) and results were compared using Wilcoxon test for paired samples. In all 40 specimens, a distinct expression of VEGF could be detected. Comparing the level of VEGF expression of the preoperative biopsies and postoperative tissue sample, no significant difference could be demonstrated following ischemic conditioning. In this model of ischemic conditioning with delayed reconstruction of 4-5 days, no induction of neo-angiogenesis could be demonstrated by measurement of VEGF expression.