This result is similar to those in experimental canine MI models.21,22 The increase in BD in the granulation phase probably results from the effect of VEGF, because viable cardiomyocytes around the MI lesion promptly express VEGF after the onset of MI.7 On the other hand, the present study has revealed only a few lymphatics in the peripheral region adjacent to viable cardiomyocytes in the early granulation phase, whereas VEGF-C was expressed in the lesion promptly after the onset of MI and showed a significant increase in BD in the mature granulation phase (Stage V). Here, VEGFC is linked to myocardial infarction.