Overview
- The patch embeds PLGA microparticles programmed to release neuregulin‑1, VEGF, then GW788388 on days 1–3, 7–9, and 12–14 after implantation.
- In engineered heart-tissue models under low oxygen, treatment increased cell survival, stimulated vessel growth, and reduced fibrosis.
- In a rat myocardial-infarction model, treated animals had about 33% higher survival, 50% less damaged tissue, and significantly higher cardiac output versus controls or intravenous delivery of the same drugs.
- The microparticles are housed in an alginate–PEGDA hydrogel that is surgically placed on the heart and gradually thins over about a year without impairing mechanical function.
- Researchers plan larger-animal studies and are exploring stent-based delivery, with neuregulin‑1 and VEGF previously tested in humans while GW788388 has only been studied in animals.