# Mechanotransduction of autotransplants: remodeling potential of heart valves from autologous pericardial tissue

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how autologous pericardial tissue could be used to create living heart valves with regenerative potential.

## Contribution

The paper introduces autologous pericardial tissue as a novel material for heart valves with self-regulating properties.

## Key findings

- Autologous pericardial tissue offers a solid extracellular matrix foundation for heart valves.
- Interstitial cells are crucial for the long-term durability of autologous tissue-based valves.
- Mechanotransduction in autologous tissue supports regenerative potential in living heart valves.

## Abstract

Current commercial heart valve prostheses are non-living structures, either derived from artificial materials (mechanical valves) or foreign biological materials (xeno- or homo-graft). Since the use of viable tissue with native-like properties is essential for a heart valve with self-regulation properties, autologous collagen-based tissue can be considered a promising alternative material. While the extracellular matrix of pericardial tissue offers a solid foundation, it is the interstitial cells that play a crucial role in ensuring long-term durability. This review explores the mechanotransduction capabilities of autologous tissue as a replacement material for living heart valves with regenerative potential.