SUMMARY
UCLA researchers in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering have developed a novel material to aid in the recovery of heart attack patients.
BACKGROUND
Heart disease is one of the major causes of death and disability in developed countries. Incidents such as heart attacks can result in partial or complete blockage of a coronary artery, restricting blood flow and causing significant injury to the heart. Current treatments are restricted to heart transplants which are costly and limited. As such, there is a growing need for accessible, cheaper treatments that can heal damaged heart tissue.
INNOVATION
UCLA researchers have developed a material that can help in the restoration of heart function after a heart attack. This treatment promotes local cellular growth and allowed for the natural recovery of cardiac function. In addition, due to its adhesive nature, the material is able to adhere to the surface of the heart and stay in place for up to three weeks without replacement. When compared to alternative non-suture adhesives, the material showed comparable adhesive strength while encouraging natural cellular recovery of the heart tissue.
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS
ADVANTAGES
DEVELOPMENT TO DATE
UCLA researchers have developed the patch and shown compatibility with human cell lines.
Related Papers (from the inventors only)