Work

In vitro approaches to mimic cardiac mechanical load dynamics for enhancing maturation and disease modelling

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The use of human pluripotent stem cells in cardiac tissue engineering has led to significant advances in the development of in vitro models of the human heart. However, full maturation of human pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes has not been achieved. Current maturation strategies aim to replicate the native cardiac environment by incorporating the passive and active mechanical cues of the heart. Cardiac preload and afterload are key active mechanical loads that directly influence cardiomyocyte maturation and overall cardiac function. In this review, we explore the role of mechanical stimuli in cardiac development and cardiomyocyte maturation, with a focus on how preload and afterload dynamics can be replicated in vitro using platforms such as engineered heart tissues, stretchable membranes, bioactuators, engineered cardiac chambers, and microtissues. Additionally, we highlight the role of stimulation parameters used in dynamic preload modelling and how the incorporation of these active mechanical loads is applied in disease modelling.

Source: Cardiovascular Research

DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvaf247

Authors: Mariel Cano-Jorge, Sofia Gómez, Jaap den Toonder, Ye Wang, Robert Passier

Institutions: University of Twente, Eindhoven University of Technology, Leiden University, Leiden University Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Pluripotent Stem Cells Research

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,329