Preparation and applications of peptide-based injectable hydrogels

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Drug Delivery

Background:

• Injectable hydrogels show promise for localized drug delivery, reducing systemic side effects.
• Peptide-based hydrogels are attractive due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and bioactivity.
• Peptides mimic natural tissue environments and respond to stimuli, enhancing hydrogel functionality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the fabrication and production of peptide-based hydrogels.
• To highlight smart, environment-sensitive peptide hydrogel candidates.
• To discuss recent biomedical applications and future prospects of peptide hydrogels.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of peptide hydrogel fabrication techniques.
• Analysis of stimuli-responsive peptide hydrogel properties.
• Survey of applications in tissue engineering, drug/gene delivery, and antibacterial agents.

Main Results:

• Peptide hydrogels can be fabricated with controlled properties for biomedical use.
• Smart peptide hydrogels respond to environmental cues for targeted delivery.
• Applications include tissue regeneration, efficient drug/gene vehicles, and antimicrobial strategies.

Conclusions:

• Peptide-based injectable hydrogels are versatile biomaterials with significant therapeutic potential.
• Their unique properties enable advanced applications in regenerative medicine and targeted therapies.
• Continued development promises further innovation in injectable hydrogel technology for biomedical fields.