Nucleoside transport inhibition in ischemic myocardium results in enhancedtaurine efflux

We measured with the microdialysis technique energy-related metabolites in ischemic myocardium over time in an experimental pig model. Emphasis was pu t on the dipyridamole effect when administered in the microdialysis probe i nserted in ischemic myocardium. Not only adenosine but also taurine and pyr uvate concentrations were significantly higher in the microdialysate during the periods of ischemia and extracorporeal circulation with cardioplegia. The enhanced efflux of taurine in ischemic myocardium induced by dipyridamo le is a new finding. A mechanistic role of taurine in the prevention of Ca2 + overload in ischemic myocytes is discussed. Also, taurine may have stimul atory effects on glycolysis in ischemic heart. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B. V. All rights reserved.