Extension of Atherosclerosis ApoE-/- Mouse—a Model of Chronic Myocardial Ischemia and Evaluation Method

Chronic myocardial ischemia (CMI) is a key pathological condition in coronary artery disease (CAD), yet small animal models for CMI are limited. This study developed and characterized a CMI mouse model using ApoE-/- mice fed a high-fat diet for 3 months. Cardiac function was assessed through electrocardiography (ECG), myocardial action potential, and perfusion echocardiography. The model group exhibited elevated cholesterol, aortic lipid plaques, and T-wave flattening, correlated with atherosclerosis severity. Impaired myocardial perfusion, reduced ATP content, and accelerated inner cardiomyocyte repolarization were also observed. PET/CT scans revealed filling defects, while myocardial contractile function showed reactive suppression under CMI conditions. This model replicates CMI's pathological features, providing a valuable tool for studying CAD progression and treatment.