The evolution of proteomics facilitates protein separation, identification and characterization, which give better insight into molecular mechanisms underlying cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology. Investigations on the expression of proteins, their interactions and post-translational modifications contributes to our better understanding of disease processes and provides new cardiovascular biomarkers. Up to now, laboratory animals have been employed in proteomic research on human disorders, although rodent models do not genuinely reflect human conditions. Because of the similarities in anatomy, physiology and metabolism, farm animals such as pigs, cows or sheep are increasingly being used as model organisms in human cardiovascular research. It should be noted that application of proteomics has a huge potential for gaining some new insight into physiology and pathophysiology of the cardiovascular system, which cannot be provided with conventional methods. Up to date, complete heart and aorta proteomes of human and several animal species have been established. Several proteomic studies on human diseases, including atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction and dilated cardiomyopathy, have been conducted and proved to be very valuable in bringing key information on their aetiology and progression, as well as new challenges for biomedical investigation. The aim of this review is to summarize achievements in proteomics of cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology with the use of domestic and laboratory animal models.

22.3.2017