Conducting polymer hydrogels for biomedical application: Current status and outstanding challenges

Conducting polymer hydrogels (CPHs) are composite polymeric materials with unique properties that combine the electrical capabilities of conducting polymers (CPs) with the excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility of traditional hydrogels. This review aims to highlight how the unique properties CPHs have from combining their two constituent materials are utilized within the biomedical field. First, the synthesis approaches and applications of non-CPH conductive hydrogels are discussed briefly, contrasting CPH-based systems. The synthesis routes of hydrogels, CPs, and CPHs are then discussed. This review also provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advancements and applications of CPHs in the biomedical field, encompassing their applications as biosensors, drug delivery scaffolds (DDSs), and tissue engineering platforms. Regarding their applications within tissue engineering, a comprehensive discussion of the usage of CPHs for skeletal muscle prosthetics and regeneration, cardiac regeneration, epithelial regeneration and wound healing, bone and cartilage regeneration, and neural prosthetics and regeneration is provided. Finally, critical challenges and future perspectives are also addressed, emphasizing the need for continued research; however, this fascinating class of materials holds promise within the vastly evolving field of biomedicine.