Fig. 1

Schematic illustration demonstrating the CNTs based multifunctional power assist system (MPS). a Schematic illustration of a normal heart and application of the MPS for a dilated and failed heart. b Microstructure of electric driven multifunctional power assist device. c Schematic indicating SA-CNTs guide the migration of epicardial cells. d Representative images showing MPS in diastolic (left) and systolic state (right). Scale bars, 1 cm. RD-CNT, randomly dispersed carbon-nanotube film; SA-CNTs, superaligned carbon-nanotube sheets. Electrolyte, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) gel filled with sulfuric acid; Sealing, poly (dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS).