These data, combined with similar results using other models of myocardial remodeling (i.e., aldosterone infusion, streptozotocin diabetic cardiomyopathy, Ang II infusion) suggest that increased OPN expression in the heart post-injury plays a crucial role in regulating LV remodeling, at least in part, by supporting collagen synthesis and ECM functionality. Here, SPP1 is linked to diabetic cardiomyopathy.