Pathophysiology of Ischemia/Reperfusion-induced Myocardial Injury: What We Have Learned From Preconditioning and Postconditioning?

Organ damage after reperfusion of previously viable ischemic tissues is defined as ischemia/reperfusion injury. The pathophysiology of ischemia/reperfusion injury involves cellular effect of ischemia, reactive oxygen species and inflammatory cascade. Protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury may be achieved by preconditioning or postconditioning. In this review, we discuss basic mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of ischemia/reperfusion injury. Moreover, the pharmacology of preconditioning and postconditioning is delineated.