An overview of recent flexible- and soft-biomaterial applications in myocardial infarction and other cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases are currently the leading cause of mortality globally, with myocardial infarction representing one of the most prevalent and severe condition greater than even cancer. Current medical approaches are generally based on preventing and treating various post-infarction complications, failing to restore functional myocardial tissue. In this context, recent advances in the field of tissue engineering have been explored in an attempt to provide successful strategies for myocardial infarction repair, in addition to a multitude of other pathologies affecting the cardiovascular system. Biomaterials represent an essential component in developing innovative treatments such as tissue substitutes, drug/cell delivery vehicles, and prosthetic solutions, potentially avoiding invasive surgical procedures or, ultimately, transplantation. This review presents the various biomaterials that have found application in the last 10 years in the development of tissue engineering-based solutions for myocardial infarction repair. The discussion covers thermoplastic and elastomeric polymers, hydrogels, hybrid and smart material systems, and highlights their distinctive properties and the specific biological requirements they are able to meet. Additionally, recent applications in clinical trials are reviewed, describing their potential for clinical translation. This comprehensive overview aims to support researchers in selecting the most adequate biomaterial for myocardial infarction application.