A Core–Shell Nanoreinforced Ion‐Conductive Implantable Hydrogel Bioelectronic Patch with High Sensitivity and Bioactivity for Real‐Time Synchronous Heart Monitoring and Repairing

Abstract

To achieve synchronous repair and real‐time monitoring the infarcted myocardium based on an integrated ion‐conductive hydrogel patch is challenging yet intriguing. Herein, a novel synthetic strategy is reported based on core–shell‐structured curcumin‐nanocomposite‐reinforced ion‐conductive hydrogel for synchronous heart electrophysiological signal monitoring and infarcted heart repair. The nanoreinforcement and multisite cross‐linking of bioactive curcumin nanoparticles enable well elasticity with negligible hysteresis, implantability, ultrahigh mechanoelectrical sensitivity (37 ms), and reliable sensing capacity (over 3000 cycles) for the nanoreinforced hydrogel. Results of in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate that such solely physical microenvironment of electrophysiological and biomechanical characteristics combining with the role of bioactive curcumin exert the synchronous benefit of regulating inflammatory microenvironment, promoting angiogenesis, and reducing myocardial fibrosis for effective myocardial infarction (MI) repair. Especially, the hydrogel sensors offer the access for achieving accurate acquisition of cardiac signals, thus monitoring the whole MI healing process. This novel bioactive and electrophysiological‐sensing ion‐conductive hydrogel cardiac patch highlights a versatile strategy promising for synchronous integration of in vivo real‐time monitoring the MI status and excellent MI repair performance.

Progress of Research on Conductive Hydrogels in Flexible Wearable Sensors

“…It can also serve as an effective wound dressing to accelerate the healing process, providing valuable insights for developing integrated diagnostic and therapeutic smart wearable devices. Hou et al [111] reported a new synthesis strategy for an ionic conductive hydrogel enhanced with core-shell structured curcumin nanoparticle composites for simultaneous cardiac electrophysiological signal monitoring and myocardial infarction repair. Zhang et al [112] developed a conductive hydrogel with a pNIPAm and poly(Cu-arylacetylide) interpenetrating polymer network, exhibiting exceptional anti-swelling properties, good electronic conductivity, good adhesion, and excellent antibacterial performance.…”