The isolated, buffer-perfused ferret heart: a new model for the study of cardiac physiology and metabolism

Abstract

The isolated, buffer-perfused ferret heart is a new model for the study of cardiac physiology and metabolism. Compared to the more commonly used isolated heart preparation, the rat heart, the ferret has a lower rate-pressure product due to lower heart rate, a remarkably low coronary flow and almost complete oxygen extraction. The ferret heart remains in stable haemodynamic and metabolic conditions for a longer period of time than the rat heart. ATP contents of the two species are similar, but creatine phosphate content is higher in the ferret while NAD content is much lower.