Reverse remodeling of the myocardial extracellular matrix after prolonged left ventricular assist device support follows a biphasic pattern.

Background: Collagens are important components of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Alterations in collagen structure and composition can lead to end-stage heart failure. Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are frequently used as a bridge to heart transplantation (HTx).

Lipoprotein(a) concentrations and apolipoprotein(a) isoform distribution in a Zimbabwean population.

Objective: To determine serum lipoprotein(a)[Lp(a)] concentrations and apolipoprotein(a)[apo(a)] phenotypes in a Zimbabwean population.

Design: Cross sectional study.

Setting: Blood Transfusion Services, Harare, Zimbabwe.