A Stretchable and Flexible Cardiac Tissue–Electronics Hybrid Enabling Multiple Drug Release, Sensing, and Stimulation. Issue 14 (5th March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Feiner, Ron; Wertheim, Lior; Gazit, Danielle; Kalish, Or; Mishal, Gal; Shapira, Assaf; Dvir, Tal
• Is Part Of: Small. Volume 15:Issue 14(2019)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2019-03-05
• Subjects: cardiac patches -- cardiac tissue engineering -- controlled release -- electrospun fiber scaffolds -- microelectronics; Nanotechnology -- Periodicals; Nanoparticles -- Periodicals; Microtechnology -- Periodicals; 620.5
• DOI: 10.1002/smll.201805526
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1613-6810

Abstract

Abstract: Replacement of the damaged scar tissue created by a myocardial infarction is the goal of cardiac tissue engineering. However, once the implanted tissue is in place, monitoring its function is difficult and involves indirect methods, while intervention necessarily requires an invasive procedure and available medical attention. To overcome this, methods of integrating electronic components into engineered tissues have been recently presented. These allow for remote monitoring of tissue function as well as intervention through stimulation and controlled drug release. Here, an improved hybrid microelectronic tissue construct capable of withstanding the dynamic environment of the beating heart without compromising electronic or mechanical functionality is reported. While the reported system is enabled to sense the function of the engineered tissue and provide stimulation for pacing, an electroactive polymer on the electronics enables it to release multiple drugs in parallel. It is envisioned that the integration of microelectronic devices into engineered tissues will provide a better way to monitor patient health from afar, as well as provide facile, more exact methods to control the healing process. Abstract : A freestanding hybrid microelectronic tissue construct capable of withstanding the motions of the heart without compromising electronic or mechanical functionality is introduced. The hybrid construct is capable of monitoring the function of the engineered cardiac tissue and providing electrical stimulation for pacing and controlled release of multiple drugs from a built in electroactive polymer.