Abstract 10773: Curcumin Improves the Outcomes of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in a Rat Model of Cardiac Arrest

Introduction: Curcumin has been proven to provide potent protection of vital organs against regional ischemia reperfusion injury. In this study, we investigated the effects of curcumin on the outcomes of CPR in a rat model of cardiac arrest. Hypothesis: Curcumin reduces the severity of post-CPR myocardial dysfunction and prolong the duration of survival. Method: Sixteen male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing between 450-550g were randomized into two groups: 1) Placebo; 2) Curcumin (100 mg/kg) pre-treatment. Ventricular fibrillation (VF) was induced. After 8 mins of VF, CPR was initiated for 8 mins and defibrillation was then attempted. Myocardial function was measured by echocardiography at baseline and hourly for 4 hours following successful resuscitation. The duration of survival was observed for total 72 hours. Result: Six animals in the placebo group and seven in the curcumin group were successfully resuscitated. Post-resuscitation myocardial function was significantly impaired in all animals. However, myocardial function gradually improved 4 hours after resuscitation and was significantly better in the animals pre-treated with curcumin (Figure). Significantly shorter duration of survival of 40±29 hours was observed in the placebo group. Conclusion: In a rat model of cardiac arrest, curcuminim proves post-resuscitation myocardial dysfunction and prolongs the duration of survival.