RCAN1 and heart failure: To investigate the molecular profiles of these hearts, expression of signature molecules of heart failure (Nppa and Nppb encoding atrial and brain natriuretic peptides (ANP and BNP), respectively), NFAT activation (Rcan1-4 encoding the Regulator of calcineurin (RCAN) 1–4, a gene whose transcription is under the direct control of calcineurin-NFAT [31, 32]), and fibrosis, i.e., structural collagens I and III (encoded by Col1a2 and Col3a1, respectively), was measured.