Calcific arteriovenous disease (CAVD), a progressive, slow-growing disorder, can range from "early Sclerosis" with leaflet thickening and no left ventricular outflow obstruction to "late stenosis, characterised by stiffen leaflets, flow is obstructed and compromised cardiac function". CAVD has been characterized historically as a passive, "senile", or "degenerative" condition that affects a normal trileaflet. Recent scientific findings have shown that CAVD is an active, cellmediated pathobiological process which shares many risk factors as atherosclerosis. Many evidence suggests that calcific valve disease (calcific aortic) is not an inevitable consequence of aging. It may also be linked to certain risk factors. There are currently no drugs that can stop or slow down the progression of CAVD. The only treatment is surgical valve replacement. There is a scientific need to understand the pathobiological mechanisms of CAVD, and to develop new treatments. The advent of new models as well as improved understanding of the utility and usefulness of existing models has made animal models essential tools in this endeavor. This review paper will discuss the most commonly used large and small animal models used in CAVD research.
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