Catalase-loaded biodegradable microneedle patch for myocardial infarction repair

LI Shan; CHEN Tong; ZENG Hang; GAO Lei; ZOU Yu-ting; JIA Xiao-wei; WANG Ya-bin; LI Yi

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1672-5301.2026.01.016

Abstract：Objective Following myocardial infarction(MI),cardiomyocytes at the site of coronary occlusion undergo extensive loss due to ischemia and hypoxia,while excessive production of reactive oxygen species(ROS)further impedes myocardial repair.This study aimed to develop a microneedle patch loaded with catalase and characterized its physicochemical properties and biocompatibility.In vitro and in vivo studies were conducted to assess the antioxidant stress protection provided by the patch and its effects on cardiac function after myocardial infarction.Methods A bilayer degradable microneedle patch was created using hyaluronic acid(HA)as the base layer to load catalase,while methacrylated hyaluronic acid formed the microneedle patch tips.The patch was prepared by casting the materials into polydimethysiloxane(PDMS)microneedle molds.Results The prepared microneedles formed a 15 mm×15 mm square array,with each needle body approximately 700 μm in height.The hyaluronic acid(HA)in the base can degrade to release catalase,which decomposes ROS.In vitro studies demonstrated that the microneedles possess good biocompatibility and antioxidant capacity,with a hydrogen peroxide(H2O2)clearance rate reaching 62%.Their mechanical strength is approximately 0.32 N per needle,sufficient to penetrate cardiac tissue.Echocardiography indicated that the microneedle group effectively improved cardiac function in SD rats 28 days after MI.Masson staining further verified,at the tissue level,a reduction in collagen fiber deposition area at the infarct site.Conclusion The dual-layer degradable microneedle patch loaded with catalase represents a novel therapeutic strategy for MI repair.