Abstract: In this study, isosorbide mononitrate (ISMN)-loaded liposomes (ISMN-LNPs) were encapsulated within an injectable composite hydrogel that consisted of κ-Carrageenan (κ-Car), hyaluronic acid (HA), and tannic acid (TA). The fabricated composite hydrogel exhibited exceptional reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging capabilities to enhance cell migration. Upon injection of the ISMN-LNP-loaded composite hydrogel into the injured hearts of rats, significant improvements in cardiac function could be observed after treatment. Furthermore, Masson’s staining results revealed that the injectable hydrogel system reduced myocardial infarct size and increased left ventricular wall thickness post-myocardial infarction. Immunofluorescence staining results indicated the upregulating expression of vascular hemophilic factor (VWF) and α-actinin, suggesting that the injectable hydrogel system to promote vascular proliferation and enhance cardiac systolic and diastolic function following myocardial infarction.

Keywords: injectable hydrogel, myocardial infarction, liposomes