This project explores the design and development of cardiac patches as multifunctional systems that combine drug delivery and tissue regeneration for myocardial repair. Given the limited natural regenerative capacity of the human heart after myocardial infarction, cardiac patches offer a promising localized platform to restore tissue structure and function. The work covers key material systems—natural and synthetic polymers such as collagen, gelatin, PLGA, and PCL—engineered into hydrogels, nanofibers, and 3D-printed scaffolds with tailored mechanical and biological properties.
Through an extensive literature review and analysis of advanced studies, the project examined three major approaches: (1) personalized 3D-printed cardiac patches designed using patient imaging data for perfusable structures, (2) paintable adhesive hydrogels capable of rapid gelation and controlled release of therapeutic proteins like ANGPTL4, and (3) nanowired cardiac patches enhanced with conductive nanomaterials to improve electrical synchronization and cell maturation. Each approach demonstrated unique advantages in promoting angiogenesis, reducing inflammation, and improving cardiac performance after injury.
The findings highlight the potential of hybrid designs that integrate 3D-printed backbones, bioadhesive hydrogels, and conductive layers into a single multi-stage drug delivery system. Such systems can simultaneously address structural, biochemical, and electrical requirements of the damaged myocardium—paving the way for clinically translatable therapies that bridge materials science and regenerative medicine.