Hydrogel applications in myocardial infarction
image: Graphical abstract image illustrating the pathophysiological sequence following MI induced by left anterior descending (LAD) artery ligation across multiple preclinical animal models. The cascade includes vascular blockade, cardiomyocyte death, compensatory hypertrophy, and fibrotic tissue remodeling, ultimately leading to ischemic heart damage. Therapeutic intervention with injectable hydrogels supports cardiac repair and functional recovery, highlighting their potential in myocardial regeneration.
Credit: HIGHER EDUCATION PRESS
Myocardial infarction (MI) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, stemming from the heart’s limited regenerative capacity and formation of noncontractile fibrotic tissue. Current treatments, including pharmacological and surgical interventions, manage symptoms and restore perfusion but fail to promote regeneration.
Hydrogel-based therapies offer a promising approach by mimicking the cardiac extracellular matrix, delivering bioactive molecules, and providing structural support for repair. Huang and Zhao et al. present a systematic review published by Frontiers of Materials Science, examining recent advances in hydrogel-based cardiac repair, focusing on classification, therapeutic mechanisms, preclinical/clinical findings, and translational challenges. They further point out aspects of the development of next-generation multifunctional and adaptive hydrogels that future research must be focused on.
This review provides a fundamental insight on hydrogel applications in myocardial infarction, demonstrating the potential to redefine the MI treatment and pave the way for more effective and minimally invasive cardiac regenerative strategies.