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A self-powered intracardiac pacemaker in swine model.
Zhuo Liu1,2, Yiran Hu3,4, Xuecheng Qu1,5
1Beijing Key Laboratory of Micro-nano Energy and Sensor, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 101400, Beijing, China.
Nature Communications
|January 13, 2024
Summary
Researchers developed a battery-free, self-powered intracardiac pacemaker using cardiac motion. This innovative device, implanted via catheter, converts heart movement into electricity to treat arrhythmia in animal models.
Area of Science:
- Bioelectronic devices
- Biomedical engineering
- Energy harvesting
Background:
- Implantable bioelectronic devices require reliable power sources.
- Cardiac motion presents a potential source of biomechanical energy.
- Current pacemakers face limitations related to battery life and replacement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a battery-free, self-powered intracardiac pacemaker.
- To utilize triboelectrification and electrostatic induction for energy conversion.
- To evaluate the device's efficacy in treating arrhythmia in large animal models.
Main Methods:
- A capsule-shaped device was designed for transcatheter implantation in the right ventricle.
- The device leverages the coupled effect of triboelectrification and electrostatic induction.
- Implantation was performed in swine via the intravenous route, followed by a three-week observation period.
Main Results:
- The self-powered intracardiac pacemaker was successfully implanted and maintained endocardial pacing function.
- The device effectively converted cardiac motion energy into electrical energy.
- In vivo measurements yielded an open circuit voltage of approximately 6.0 V and a short circuit current of 0.2 μA.
Conclusions:
- This study demonstrates a novel approach for battery-free cardiac pacing.
- The developed device offers a promising solution for powering implantable bioelectronic devices.
- This technology may overcome energy limitations in pacemakers and other medical devices for therapy and sensing.
