A Knitted Cardiac Patch

About

NC State is seeking an industry partner to further develop and commercialize a novel, weft-knitted cardiac patch. Abstract Cardiovascular diseases are the number one cause of death globally. An estimated 17.5 million people die from cardiovascular disease each year, which represents 31% of all global deaths. Even if an individual survives a heart attack, he or she still experiences severe decreases in cardiac function due to muscle cell damage and death. Cardiac regeneration is a promising method to restore cardiac function and rebuild muscle cells. Regeneration assists in the recovery of heart cells, prevents future infarctions and avoids heart failure. Cardiac patches are commonly used to regenerate heart tissue and cells, but current patches do not ideally mimic cardiac tissue. Many patches are too stiff to provide the necessary mechanical stability, stretch, recovery and elasticity that exists in native tissue. Researchers at NC State have developed cardiac patches made of polylactic acids and woven in three unique patterns. Each patch has demonstrated the elasticity, mechanical properties and porosity of heart tissues and can act as a protective structure as well as deliver important cells, proteins and other biological materials for heart restoration. In addition, the patches are biodegradable and flexible, requiring minimal invasiveness to apply. Advantages Flexible and highly porous Supports the growth of cardiac cells and offers superior biocompatibility Carry stem cells and other biomolecules for regeneration Protects and preserves cardiac function Provides a supporting structure to withstand pressure and strain Biaxial mechanical strength (longitudinal and circumferential) Biodegradable and requires no post-surgery removal Delivery and application to target site with minimal invasiveness Technology #15300 Categories Diseases Cardiovascular