Recent advances in DNA hydrogels for biomedical applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Molecular Engineering

Background:

• DNA hydrogels integrate programmable DNA into 3D networks, offering precise recognition and signal transduction.
• They overcome limitations of conventional platforms like poor stability, matrix interference, and high cost.
• DNA hydrogels are attractive for biomedicine due to their unique properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review recent advances in DNA hydrogels for biosensing and drug delivery.
• To provide insights into synthesis routes, design principles, and mechanisms.
• To discuss applications, challenges, and future directions in the field.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on DNA hydrogel synthesis and design.
• Analysis of mechanisms underlying DNA hydrogel function in biosensing and drug delivery.
• Categorization of applications in medical detection, disease treatment, and theranostics.

Main Results:

• DNA hydrogels exhibit enhanced sensing performance and therapeutic potential through customized designs.
• Key design principles include crosslinking density regulation and stability protection.
• Applications span medical diagnostics, targeted therapies, and theranostic platforms.

Conclusions:

• DNA hydrogels represent a promising platform for advanced biomedical applications.
• Further research is needed to address current challenges and facilitate translational applications.
• This review serves as a reference for rational design and development of DNA hydrogel systems.