However, substantial LV dysfunction (EF 39 ± 4 vs. 52 ± 3%) and dilation (LVESD 0.63 ± 0.04 vs. 0.52 ± 0.03 cm) were observed in hearts overexpressing TNF-α when compared with adGFP-treated animals 1 wk post-MI (Fig. 3I,J). This evidence concerns the gene TNF and myocardial infarction.