Small Animal Models of Heart Failure

T he study of heart failure requires viable animal models whereby chronic changes in myocardial structure and function can evolve and the progression of heart failure and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction can be quantified. During the past 40 years, basic and translational scientists have used small animal models to explore the pathophysiology of heart failure and to develop novel therapies that might slow the progression of this prevalent and fatal disease. The purpose of this review is to describe commonly used heart failure models in rodents and to cite examples of how these models have been used to evaluate novel therapies for the treatment of heart failure.