Administration of recombinant OPN improved systolic function, reduced ventricular dilation, decreased fibrotic scar size and restored the elastin-to-collagen ratio in Cd163<sup>-</sup> <sup>/</sup> <sup>-</sup> mice.<h4>Conclusions</h4>In cMacs, CD163 contributes to post-MI repair by upregulating OPN expression, which in turn helps maintain systolic function.<h4>Key points</h4>Soluble CD163 is elevated in ICM and correlates with LV dysfunction. This evidence concerns the gene CD163 and myocardial infarction.