Electrospinning and characterisation of biomimetic scaffolds for cardiac implants

Due to the rising numbers of people diagnosed with heart insufficiency, the clinical relevance of the development of new long-lasting and reliable biomimetic materials for functional heart implants is higher than ever. Native porcine pericardium currently acts as the gold standard despite the drawbacks of the intensive decellularisation processes involved therein. To provide an alternative that mimics the non-linear mechanical properties of porcine pericardium, we aim at developing a novel biomimetic electrospun hybrid consisting of polyurethane and collagen as part of a cardiac support system for patients with left ventricular heart failure.