From real-time monitoring to precision therapy: the application of piezoelectric systems in cardiovascular diseases

Abstract

The persistently rising global burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDis) is driving a transformation in healthcare technologies toward minimally invasive, controllable and intelligent solutions. Piezoelectric materials, by virtue of their unique ability to interconvert mechanical and electrical energy, provide a fundamental materials platform for developing self-powered, highly biocompatible, miniaturized and flexible diagnostic and therapeutic devices. This review provides a systematic overview of the recent advances in applying piezoelectric materials to CVDis management. We begin by classifying piezoelectric materials based on biodegradability and summarizing their structural characteristics and properties. We then delve into the mechanisms underlying the interaction between piezoelectricity and the cardiovascular microenvironment, elucidating how in situ generated electrical stimuli can modulate cellular behavior and promote tissue repair. Furthermore, we comprehensively summarize the innovative applications of piezoelectric materials in CVDis diagnosis and therapy. Finally, we critically analyze the core challenges in the field, including balancing material performance with biocompatibility, achieving mechanical compatibility and navigating the clinical translation pathway. Future perspectives are offered, focusing on the development of novel multifunctional materials, the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies, and the integration of personalized intelligent therapeutic systems. Finally, we also offer design rules for piezoelectric systems in CVDis to support the development of next generation self-powered and intelligent cardiovascular diagnostic and therapeutic platforms and accelerate the clinical translation of piezoelectric materials for cardiovascular precision medicine.