Researchers at Pennsylvania State University in the United States have created a 3D-printed hydrogel implant that may offer a way to treat high blood pressure without medication.
The device, named CaroFlex, was tested in rats by implanting it near the carotid artery. In short trials lasting about ten minutes, it reduced blood pressure by more than 15%.
The scientists report that the implant works by delivering gentle electrical stimulation and showed no signs of tissue damage after two weeks of monitoring. Their findings were published in the journal Device.
Hypertension and the Challenge of Resistant Cases
Hypertension affects nearly half of adults in the United States and is a major contributor to heart and circulatory diseases. About 10% of patients have resistant hypertension, meaning their blood pressure stays high even when taking multiple drugs.
Tao Zhou, a professor at Pennsylvania State University and lead researcher, noted that many patients still struggle to control their condition despite using three to five medications.
The team suggests that bioelectronic implants like this could provide an alternative approach, using mild electrical signals to help the body naturally regulate blood pressure.
CaroFlex operates by activating a natural system in the body that regulates blood pressure. It relies on artery nerve receptors, especially in the carotid neck area, that detect blood pressure changes and signal the body to adjust blood flow.
Researchers note that although similar devices exist, they typically use rigid materials like metal or plastic that fail to match the natural movement of arteries.
According to Zhou, this rigidity can lead to gradual damage over time, both to the device and surrounding tissue, since arteries continuously expand and contract with each heartbeat.
3D-Printed Hydrogel Design Improves Safety and Functionality
To address this issue, the team designed CaroFlex using a 3D-printed hydrogel—a soft, jelly-like substance.One part conducts electricity as an electrode, while the other helps it safely stick to tissue without toxicity.
In lab experiments, the implant stretched to more than twice its original length before breaking, and its adhesive component remained stable even after six months of storage.
The researchers reported that CaroFlex provided stronger attachment to tissue and maintained a more consistent electrical connection compared with conventional platinum electrodes.
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