The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

This study develops a biomimetic cardiac regeneration platform by integrating heart-specific decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) with a microvascular network. To address myocardial infarction damage, cardiac dECM is optimized via physical and chemical processes to preserve essential bioactive components. Simultaneously, interconnected microchannels are fabricated within the hydrogel using pNIPAM as a thermo-responsive sacrificial fiber via centrifugal spinning. The platform's efficacy is evaluated through in vitro characterization, including mechanical strength analysis via compression testing and H&E staining for structural assessment. Biological validation focuses on cell viability (Live/Dead assay) and the expression of cardiomyocyte markers, such as $\alpha$-actinin and NKX2.5, to confirm functional maturation. This sophisticated in vitro model replicates the cardiac microenvironment, providing a robust tool for studying myocardial regeneration.