Left Coronary Artery Ligation Model
The Left Coronary Artery Ligation (LCAL) Model is a well-established preclinical approach for studying myocardial infarction (MI) and its associated pathological changes. In this model, permanent ligation of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery induces sustained myocardial ischemia and subsequent infarction, which may lead to ventricular remodeling and cardiac dysfunction. This model is widely used to investigate the mechanisms of ischemic myocardial injury and evaluate the efficacy of potential cardioprotective therapies.
At Creative Bioarray, we offer LCAL model services using permanent ligation of the LAD coronary artery. With standardized surgical procedures, comprehensive endpoint assessments, and flexible study designs, we support preclinical evaluation of cardiovascular therapeutics, from early drug discovery to efficacy assessment.
Endpoints & Assessments
We offer a fully integrated endpoint platform tailored to your compound's mechanism of action:
In Vivo Cardiac Function
- Echocardiography (Transthoracic): LVEF, LVFS, LVEDd, LVESd, wall motion score index (WMSI)
Biomarker Analysis
- Creatine Kinase-MB (CK-MB)
- Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)
- NT-proBNP (rat/mouse-specific assays)
- Custom multiplex cytokine panels (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, MCP-1)
Histopathology & Morphometry
- TTC Staining: Infarct size (% of left ventricle or area-at-risk)
- H&E & Masson’s Trichrome: Inflammatory infiltration, collagen deposition
- Immunohistochemistry: α-SMA, CD31, TUNEL, Ki-67, macrophage polarization markers (CD68/iNOS/CD206)
- Electron Microscopy: Mitochondrial ultrastructure (optional)
Molecular & Cellular Characterization
- qPCR/Western Blot: Apoptosis (Bax/Bcl-2/Caspase-3), Autophagy (LC3/Beclin-1), Hypertrophy (ANP/BNP/β-MHC)
- Tissue Proteomics/Transcriptomics: Bulk or single-cell RNA-seq (partner facility)
Applications
Our LCAL model platform supports therapeutic development across multiple indications:
| Therapeutic Area | Application Examples |
| Cardioprotection | Small molecules, natural compounds, exosomes, mitochondrial-targeted therapies |
| Anti-fibrotic Agents | Post-MI remodeling inhibitors, TGF-β pathway modulators |
| Regenerative Medicine | MSC, iPSC-CM, or cardiac progenitor cell transplantation efficacy |
| Gene & Cell Therapy | AAV-mediated gene delivery, CRISPR therapeutics, siRNA |
Why Partner with Us?
Standardized Model Establishment
We employ standardized surgical procedures and established experimental protocols to support reproducible model development and reliable preclinical efficacy evaluation.
Strain & Genetic Modification Capability
We offer flexible animal strain selection through established animal suppliers, including wild-type and genetically modified strains, to accommodate diverse research needs and study objectives.
Integrated Discovery-to-IND Workflow
Combine your LCAL study with our toxicology, PK/PD, bioanalytical, and safety pharmacology teams under one quality management system—eliminating vendor handoff delays.
FAQ
Which species and strains do you recommend for LCAL studies?
Mice, particularly the C57BL/6 strain, are commonly used in permanent LAD ligation studies to investigate myocardial infarction, ventricular remodeling, and cardiac dysfunction. At Creative Bioarray, our current experience primarily focuses on mouse models. The feasibility of using other animal species or genetically modified strains can be evaluated based on specific research objectives and study requirements.
Can the LCAL model be customized for specific research needs?
Yes. Our permanent LAD ligation model can be adapted to accommodate different study objectives, including customized treatment regimens, dosing schedules, and endpoint assessments. Additional disease backgrounds or specialized therapeutic interventions may be considered on a case-by-case basis, subject to technical feasibility and study requirements.
Please inquire about custom protocol development for your specific therapeutic context.
Can you perform longitudinal echocardiography without sacrificing animals?
Absolutely. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is a non-invasive imaging technique that allows repeated assessment of cardiac structure and function in the same animal over time. In our permanent LAD ligation model, echocardiographic examinations can be performed at multiple time points to monitor changes in cardiac function and evaluate treatment effects. The monitoring schedule can be customized based on specific study objectives.
How does the LCAL model compare to the Transverse Aortic Constriction (TAC) model?
While both are widely used in cardiovascular research, they model distinct pathophysiological mechanisms:
| Feature | LCAL Model | TAC Model |
| Pathophysiology | Ischemic injury, cell death, replacement fibrosis | Pressure overload, concentric hypertrophy |
| Clinical Analog | Myocardial infarction, ischemic cardiomyopathy | Aortic stenosis, hypertensive heart disease |
| Primary Endpoint | Infarct size, LV dilation, ejection fraction decline | LV wall thickness, hypertrophy markers (ANP/BNP) |
| Research Application | Cardioprotectants, anti-remodeling agents, regenerative medicine | Anti-hypertrophic drugs, unloading therapies |
What deliverables will I receive at the end of the study?
You will receive a comprehensive data package including:
- Final Study Report
- Raw Data Spreadsheets
- Echocardiography Image Archive
- Histopathology Slide Scans
- Statistical Analysis Summary (including ANOVA, mixed-effects models, or survival analysis as appropriate)
- Individual Animal Necropsy Records with gross pathology photographs
Data is typically delivered via secure cloud transfer within 4 weeks of the final necropsy date.
Study Design Support
Planning a study using the permanent LAD ligation model? Our scientific team provides free feasibility consultations to optimize:
- Sample size and power calculations
- Dosing route and regimen (IV, oral, intramyocardial)
- Time-course selection (acute 24h, sub-acute 7d, chronic 4–12w remodeling)