TU/e researchers are working with partners on the Hybrid Heart: a soft robotic heart that should eventually be able to attract the body's own cells to prevent rejection and complications. The research consortium has now published the first test results with an early prototype in Nature Communications.
The prototype featured in the publication successfully pumped blood using soft robotic components. The next step is to add a degradable, synthetic inner lining made of biocompatible material, developed by TU/e researchers. Although this innovative layer was not yet included in the version used for initial testing, the promising results confirm that the technical foundation is strong enough to move forward.
The Hybrid Heart, developed under the leadership of Erasmus MC, is intended for patients with heart failure. It mimics the heart’s natural rhythm and soft tissue environment using a flexible robotic ‘muscle’ (septum). This approach aims to reduce complications such as blood clots, immune rejection, and infections. The device offers a promising alternative to donor hearts, which are in short supply, and may eventually replace current artificial heart technologies.
More information
Visit the webpage.