A Comprehensive Review of Thermosensitive Hydrogels: Mechanism, Optimization Strategies, and Applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Thermosensitive hydrogels exhibit reversible sol-gel transitions with temperature changes.
• They possess excellent biocompatibility and controllable gelation, making them suitable for biomedical applications.
• Injectable hydrogels are particularly promising for minimally invasive therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the gelation mechanisms and optimization strategies of thermosensitive hydrogels.
• To highlight advances in injectable thermosensitive hydrogels for drug and stem cell delivery.
• To discuss future directions for thermosensitive hydrogel development in tissue repair.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of thermosensitive hydrogel research.
• Analysis of gelation mechanisms and performance enhancement strategies.
• Focus on applications in drug delivery, stem cell therapy, and tissue engineering.

Main Results:

• Thermosensitive hydrogels demonstrate tunable properties for specific biomedical needs.
• Injectable formulations enable minimally invasive delivery of therapeutic agents and cells.
• Applications span bone, cartilage, and other tissue defect treatments.

Conclusions:

• Thermosensitive hydrogels are advanced biomaterials for tissue regeneration and disease treatment.
• Further research is needed to overcome current challenges and expand their clinical utility.
• These materials hold significant potential for future therapeutic innovations.