Hydrogel-based mitochondrial therapies: A new frontier in disease treatment

Mitochondria are essential for cell energy metabolism, redox homeostasis, and apoptosis. Meanwhile, numerous pathological conditions are linked with mitochondrial dysfunction, such as cardiovascular diseases, connective tissue disorders, chronic wounds, neurological disorders, and cancer. Mitochondria-targeted hydrogels (MTHs) have emerged for their ability to selectively deliver active agents to mitochondria, modulate mitochondrial function precisely, which plays a key role in improving treatment efficacy. Hydrogels offer unique advantages, including biocompatibility, structural tunability, and controlled drug release. With specific targeting ligands and stimuli-responsive mechanisms, hydrogels can achieve mitochondrial localization and therapeutic modulation. Recent advancements have demonstrated significant benefits of MTHs in reducing oxidative stress, promoting oxidative phosphorylation and restoring mitochondrial quality control across a variety of disease models. However, challenges remain, including optimizing targeting efficiency, as well as accuracy. Further exploration of therapeutic mechanisms and the integration of multi-dimensional targeting strategies are also essential for the clinical application of MTHs. The current review highlights the development of mitochondrial targeting strategies and specifically focuses on a series of applications of MTHs in mitochondrial-related diseases. Lastly, the discussion delves into the shortcomings of existing therapies and possible future research ideas.