Recent advances in hydrogel-based therapeutics for lung cancer

Lung cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed types of cancer worldwide, attracting significant attention from researchers due to its high mortality rate and limited treatment options. The complex biological mechanisms associated with lung cancer pose substantial challenges for effective treatment. In recent years, hydrogels have emerged as a promising therapeutic material, garnering considerable interest due to their excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability. These hydrogels can mimic the extracellular matrix of the alveolar microenvironment and have the capability to reduce inflammation while promoting the repair and regeneration of lung tissue. This dual functionality may help mitigate the progression of lung cancer. In this review, we summarize the latest advances and applications of various types of hydrogels in the treatment of lung cancer. We begin by providing an overview of the fabrication methods and characteristics of different hydrogels designed explicitly for lung cancer therapy. Next, we systematically explore their emerging applications in clinical interventions, focusing on their roles in enhancing the therapeutic effectiveness of chemoradiotherapy drugs. Finally, we discuss the current limitations of these hydrogel-based systems and suggest potential directions for future research in this evolving field.