Development and Characterization of a Novel Rat Model for Emulating COPD-Associated Cor Pulmonale.

Abstract

Cor pulmonale, a condition marked by right ventricular (RV) dysfunction, is frequently associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and significantly worsens COPD prognosis. Despite its clinical relevance, the development of effective treatments is hindered by the lack of animal models that accurately replicate the complex interplay between COPD and cor pulmonale. This study introduces a novel rat model combining cigarette smoke (CS) exposure with left pulmonary artery ligation (LPAL) to better mimic the pathophysiological features of COPD-cor pulmonale. Pulmonary function tests revealed impaired lung function, and histological assessments indicated emphysematous changes and inflammatory infiltration, consistent with COPD pathology. Furthermore, the model exhibited hallmarks of cor pulmonale, including right ventricular hypertrophy, fibrosis, and capillary rarefaction, alongside hemodynamic alterations indicative of pulmonary hypertension. This study's findings underscore the potential of the LPAL+CS rat model to advance understanding of COPD-cor pulmonale pathophysiology and facilitate the development of targeted therapeutics.