Advances in biodegradable and injectable hydrogels for biomedical applications.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Injectable hydrogels are advanced biomaterials enabling minimally invasive implantation.
• Pioneering work has established their significant potential in diverse biomedical fields.
• These hydrogels are biodegradable, administered as sols, and form in situ.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in in situ-forming injectable hydrogels developed by the research group.
• To highlight the properties and potential applications of these hydrogels.
• To discuss current challenges and future perspectives in the field.

Main Methods:

• Loading of active substances into polymer sols with high efficiency.
• In situ formation of hydrogels post-injection.
• Controlled release of active substances via diffusion or degradation.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated successful development of several types of in situ-forming injectable hydrogels.
• Highlighted applications in cancer therapy, insulin delivery, and wound healing.
• Showcased controlled release profiles and biodegradability.

Conclusions:

• In situ-forming injectable hydrogels are highly promising for drug/protein/gene delivery, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.
• These smart biomaterials offer unique advantages for minimally invasive therapies.
• Further research is needed to address challenges and expand applications.