Figure 2

SDF-1a release from the human heart. In humans, SDF-1a is constitutively released from hearts with normal coronary arteries. However, following MI, myocardial release of SDF-1a is reduced. This is consistent with the murine mRNA expression pattern. SDF-1a release is suppressed in all stages of coronary artery disease, suggesting that coronary artery disease, rather than the tissue damage from MI, is responsible for the suppression of SDF-1a release. Transmyocardial gradient = coronary sinus level - coronary artery level; stable = stable coronary artery disease; UAP = unstable angina pectoris; MI = myocardial infarction.