Progress of the role of epicardium in myocardial repair after myocardial infarction

The epicardium characterized by high regeneration ability and multidirectional differentiation potential, which can secrete a variety of signal molecules, and play a central role during myocardial infarction repair. Current research approaches aims to activate the adult epicardium, to regulate epicardial differentiation, and to make bioengineered epicardial patch to promote heart regeneration. In this Review, we describe recent advances in the biology of the epicardium and attempts using the epicardium as therapeutic targets for heart repair and regeneration.