Abstract: | We used a model of total 45-min ischemia and 30-min reperfusion of isolated rat heart by the Langendorf technique. The course administration (15 days) of Gonoderma lucidum extract attenuated reperfusion contracture and decreased creatine kinase levels in the venous effluent from rat isolated heart during reperfusion. However, the extract did not prevent a reperfusion decrease in pressure developed by the left ventricle, reduction in the heart rate, contraction and relaxation rates. The extract had no effect on the incidence of ventricular arrhythmia. We believe that Ganoderma lucidum extract is a drug which attenuates diastolic dysfunction and prevents irreversible cardiomyocyte damage during ischemia and heart reperfusion. |