- A heart attack cuts oxygen to the heart muscle.
- Dead cells become scar tissue that cannot contract.
- Scar tissue can make the heart work harder.
- Researchers made a biodegradable patch with tiny needles.
- Microneedles have particles that carry interleukin-4.
- Needles dissolve and release IL-4 into damaged tissue.
- IL-4 helps immune cells called macrophages heal.
- Now the patch needs open-chest surgery, but research continues.
- They hope to make a less invasive version later.
Difficult words
- patch — A small piece that helps something.
- molecule — A tiny part of a substance.
- heart — The organ that pumps blood in the body.
- tissue — A group of cells working together.
- repair — To fix something that is broken.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why is it important for the heart to heal?
- How do you feel about new medical treatments?
- What do you think about using tiny needles?
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