Characterization of the Effects of Cardiac Matrix Enzymatic Degradation on Left and Right Ventricle Functions

The involvement of the heart in septic shock leads to poor prognosis. Our study elucidated the effects of cardiac matrix degradation on cardiac systolic and diastolic functions and compared them with clinical observations identified in septic shock. We developed a unique vertical Langendorff setup with computer-controlled preload and afterload where we can monitor and control both the LV and RV functions, in perfused isolated rat heart. Collagen degradation leads to a counterintuitive development of a diastolic dysfunction and to an increase in the diastolic stiffness of both ventricles, and does not lead to cardiac dilatation and to a decrease in the diastolic elastance. Interestingly, a significant increase of ventricle wall thickness at the expense of ventricle cavity volume was also observed. Degradation of collagen leads to development of viscous matrix behavior, what is detrimental for the heart. We can conclude that extracellular matrix collagen and its elastic properties have prominent effects on the systolic and diastolic function of both ventricles.