Active tissue adhesive activates mechanosensors and prevents muscle atrophy

While mechanical stimulation is known to regulate a wide range of biological processes at the cellular and tissue levels, its medical use for tissue regeneration and rehabilitation has been limited by the availability of suitable devices. Here we present a mechanically active gel–elastomer–nitinol tissue adhesive (MAGENTA) that generates and delivers muscle-contraction-mimicking stimulation to a target tissue with programmed strength and frequency. MAGENTA consists of a shape memory alloy spring that enables actuation up to 40% strain, and an adhesive that efficiently transmits the actuation to the underlying tissue. MAGENTA activates mechanosensing pathways involving yes-associated protein and myocardin-related transcription factor A, and increases the rate of muscle protein synthesis. Disuse muscles treated with MAGENTA exhibit greater size and weight, and generate higher forces compared to untreated muscles, demonstrating the prevention of atrophy. MAGENTA thus has promising applications in the treatment of muscle atrophy and regenerative medicine.