MECHANICAL-PROPERTIES OF THE COPPER-DEFICIENT RAT-HEART

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Abstract
Cu deficiency induces cardiac hypertrophy, cardiac morphologic lesions and altered ECG. Cu deficiency may also influence the mechanical properties of the myocardium. Here, weanling albino rats were fed a Cu-deficient (-Cu) diet and compared to rats fed the same diet but with Cu supplementation in the drinking water (+Cu). Rats were studied during a 1 wk period following 4.5-5.5 wk of treatment. When compared to +Cu rats, the -Cu rats exhibited characteristic signs of Cu deficiency, such as reduced body weight, hypoceruloplasminemia, depressed hematocrit, low Cu and elevated Fe concentration in the liver. The -Cu rats also exhibited cardiac hypertrophy and both a dilution and depletion of left ventricular norepinephrine. Hearts were perfused and placed at both 27.degree. and 35.degree. C. When compared to hearts from +C rats, the -Cu hearts had lower spontaneous heart rates and decreased coronary resistance, gained significant weight during perfusion, consumed more O2 per unit pressure developed, and developed less systolic pressure with a reduced rate of pressure development. The time to peak pressure development, 1/2 relaxation time, and refractory period were not affected. The altered characteristics of the Cu-deficient myocardium may be due to changes in the elastic properties of the muscle, aberrant energy metabolism or norepinephrine depletion.

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