Biomimetic multilayered polymeric heart valve featuring ultra-thin thickness and exceptional durability

The transcatheter aortic valve replacement technique has rapidly developed in clinical practice, with its indications expanding to low-risk populations and younger patients. The durability of valve materials has emerged as a critical requirement from a clinical perspective and a research focus in interventional valves. Polymeric heart valves exhibit a promising future because of their enhanced durability and reduced cost. Herein, we developed biomimetic multilayered polymeric heart valves (BMPHVs) utilizing thermoplastic silicone-polycarbonate polyurethane and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene fibers, selected to replicate the fibrosa, spongiosa, and ventricular layers in natural heart valves. The construction process involved the fabrication of ultra-strong, ultra-fine fiber textiles and leaflet laser cutting utilizing edge-sealing technology. BMPHVs exhibit superior durability than bovine pericardial valves. These findings facilitate the development of a new category of advanced synthetic materials characterized by long-term durability for valve replacement.