Electrohydrodynamically-printed Serpentine Fiber Scaffolds with Enhanced Conductivity and Elasticity for Post-Myocardial Infarction Repair

Myocardial infarction remains a leading threat to cardiovascular health, with electrical conduction abnormalities in the infarcted myocardium significantly exacerbating cardiac dysfunction. Enhancing the conductive microenvironment in the infarcted region is essential for promoting myocardial repair. In this study, we developed gold-coated serpentine microfiber-based cardiac scaffolds using electrohydrodynamic printing, which mimicked the intricate architecture of the myocardial tissue's fibrous membrane and allowed for up to 20 % elastic deformation, similar to the maximum strain of the natural heart. Compared to uncoated serpentine scaffolds and traditional linear cardiac scaffolds, the gold-coated serpentine cardiac scaffolds demonstrated enhanced expression of myocardial-specific proteins, including connexin-43 and α-actinin, increased myocardial cell contraction frequency, and better mechanical compatibility with natural cardiac deformation. In a rat model of myocardial infarction, implantation of gold-coated serpentine cardiac scaffolds over four weeks provided significant mechanical support to the infarcted region, reduced myocardial hypertrophy, and markedly improved left ventricular remodeling and cardiac function. Collectively, our findings highlight the potential of serpentine conductive fiber scaffolds as a promising therapeutic strategy for post-myocardial infarction repair, offering innovative insights into the treatment of heart diseases. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This study introduces gold-coated serpentine microfiber scaffolds, created via electrohydrodynamic printing, as a promising solution for post-myocardial infarction repair. These scaffolds, designed to mimic the natural myocardial architecture, offer up to 20 % elastic deformation and enhanced electrical conductivity. Their superior mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and ability to support myocardial cell function make them a promising strategy for restoring heart function post-infarction.