Cardioprotective Strategies After Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury

Abstract

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is associated with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although early reperfusion is the most effective strategy to salvage ischemic myocardium, reperfusion injury can develop with the restoration of blood flow. Therefore, it is important to identify protection mechanisms and strategies for the heart after myocardial infarction. Recent studies have shown that multiple intracellular molecules and signaling pathways are involved in cardioprotection. Meanwhile, device-based cardioprotective modalities such as cardiac left ventricular unloading, hypothermia, coronary sinus intervention, supersaturated oxygen (SSO₂), and remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) have become important areas of research. Herein, we review the molecular mechanisms of cardioprotection and cardioprotective modalities after ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI) to identify potential approaches to reduce mortality and improve prognosis in patients with AMI.