Background
Both stable and biodegradable biomaterials have been used to surgically repair congenital
cardiac defects. However, neither type of biomaterial can conduct electrical activity.
We evaluated the conductivity and efficacy of a newly synthesized conductive polypyrrole–chitosan
(Ppy+Chi) gelfoam patch to support cardiomyocyte (CM) viability and function in vitro
and to surgically repair a cardiac defect in vivo.
Methods
Ppy+Chi was incorporated into gelfoam (Gel) to form a 3-dimensional conductive patch.
In vitro, patch characteristics were evaluated and biocompatibility and bioconductivity
were investigated by culturing neonatal rat CMs on the patches. In vivo, a full-thickness
right ventricular outflow tract defect was created in rats and the patches were implanted.
Four weeks after patch repair, cardiac electrical activation and conduction velocity
were evaluated using an optical mapping system.
Results
In vitro, the Ppy+Chi+Gel patch had a higher mean breaking stress than the Gel or
Chi+Gel patches, and the highest conductivity. None of the patches altered cell growth.
The Ca2+ transient velocity of CMs cultured on the Ppy+Chi+Gel patch was 2.5-fold higher than
that of CMs cultured on the Gel or Chi+Gel patches. In vivo, optical mapping at 4
weeks post-implantation demonstrated that Ppy+Chi+Gel patch-implanted hearts had faster
conduction velocities, as measured on the epicardial surface. Continuous electrocardiographic
telemetry did not reveal any pathologic arrhythmias after patch implantation. Ex-vivo
patch conductivity testing also revealed that the Ppy+Chi+Gel patch was more conductive
than the Gel and Chi+Gel patches.
Conclusions
The Ppy+Chi+Gel patch was biocompatible, safe and conductive, making it an attractive
candidate for a new biomaterial platform for cardiac surgical repair to preserve synchronous
ventricular contraction.
Graphical Abstract
Graphical Abstract
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: December 20, 2017
Identification
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© 2018 International Society for the Heart and Lung Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
