AMI: To observe curcumin's effect on inhibiting the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 ,9( MMP-2, MMP-9) with the
remodeling of collagen net in the left ventricular myocardium of
pressure-over-loaded rabbits. METHODS: Thirty-six rabbits were divided into sham operation group, ligation group and curcumin group. Pressure-over-loaded models was established by partial abdominal aorta ligation. Curcumin group was treated with curcumin(100 mg·kg -1 ·d -1 ) by gastric garage ,the other two groups were treated with polyglycol.At wk 12 after operation,the gray value of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and the collagen volume fraction (CVF) were calculated by Leica Q550CW system. RESULTS: The gray values of MMP-2 for each group were (68±s 5),(153±12) and (90±7),MMP-9 were (64±6),(148±10) and (86±6);the CVF which contained vessels were (8.1±0.9)%,(17.7±0.6)% and (13.0±0.8)%, respectively. Under pressure-over-loaded condition, the expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 of rabbits were much higher(P< 0.01 ); curcumin significantly inhibits MMP-2 ,MMP-9 together with the collagen
remodeling. CONCLUSION: MMPs are the important factors which promote collagen remodeling in pressure-over-loaded rabbits. Curcumin ameliorates heart function through inhibiting MMPs with collagen remodeling.