Time-dependent apoptotic development and pro-apoptotic genes expression inrat heart after myocardial infarction

We investigated the apoptotic development and apoptotic-related gene expres sion after myocardial infarction (MI) at different time points in the curre nt study. Bax gene expression was increased at 12 h after MI and peaked at 24 h. Fas gene started to over-express at 12 h after MI as well but it reac hed maximum at 72 h. In the MI groups, strongest staining of apoptosis was detected in rats 3 days post operation. Our results demonstrate that apopto tic development after MI is time dependent in the ischemic area and there c ould be some linkage with the over expression of angiotensin II receptors p ost MI.