Multifunctional Hydrogel Strategies for Myocardial Infarction: From Tissue Repair to Cardiac Regeneration

Abstract

Myocardial infarction (MI) remains the leading cause of death in patients with cardiovascular disease worldwide, with therapeutic approaches predominantly relying on medication, medical device implantation, and organ transplantation, each constrained by inherent limitations. Injectable hydrogels have recently emerged as promising therapeutic tools, noted for their biocompatibility, injectability, and capacity to provide mechanical support crucial for myocardial tissue repair. This review aims to comprehensively explore the interaction between injectable hydrogels and myocardial repair post-infarction. It encompasses recent advancements in various types of injectable hydrogels used in MI therapy, including those modulating microenvironments, conducting electricity, influencing immunomodulation, promoting angiogenesis, and improving ischemia-reperfusion conditions. By synthesizing current research findings, this review facilitates interdisciplinary knowledge integration and the development of effective prognostic indicators for injectable materials.