Conclusions
Our work demonstrates that SGLT2 is transiently expressed in heart tissue early after MI and EMPA may directly operate on SGLT2 to facilitate metabolic substrates shifts.
Methods
Mice pre-treated with empagliflozin (EMPA), an SGLT2 inhibitor, showed a significantly reduced infarct size compared with the vehicle group three days post-MI. Interestingly, we confirmed SGLT2 localized in the infarct zone. The sequential changes of SGLT2 expression after MI were also evaluated.
Results
One day after MI, SGLT2 transiently appeared in the ischemic areas in the vehicle group and increased until 72 hours. The appearance of SGLT2 was delayed and less in amount compared with the vehicle group. Additionally, there was a significant difference in metabolites, including glucose and amino acids in the ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance analysis between groups. Conclusions: Our work demonstrates that SGLT2 is transiently expressed in heart tissue early after MI and EMPA may directly operate on SGLT2 to facilitate metabolic substrates shifts.