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Gels
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Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Therapeutic Agents
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Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Therapeutic Agents

A special issue of Gels (ISSN 2310-2861). This special issue belongs to the section "Gel Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 September 2023) | Viewed by 24121

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Adina Magdalena Musuc

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Guest Editor
Department of Chemical Kinetics, “Ilie Murgulescu” Institute of Physical Chemistry, Romanian Academy, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: physical chemistry, physico-chemical characterization of materials; drug delivery; pharmaceuticals development; thermal analysis; kinetics; biopolymers, cyclodextrin inclusion complexes; hydrogels; biomaterials for biomedical applications; oxide materials design/synthesis and the thermoreactivity of precursor-oxide transformations; green chemistry; thermal properties; physicochemical characterization; nanomaterials for biomedicine; nanomaterials for energy applications; catalysis
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Magdalena Mititelu

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Guest Editor
Department of Clinical Laboratory and Food Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: nutrition; food safety; food technology; biotechnology; pharmaceutical research and development; dosage form development; pharmaceutical analysis; clinical biochemistry
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Mariana Chelu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
“Ilie Murgulescu” Institute of Physical Chemistry, Romanian Academy, 060021 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: gels; hydrogels; drug delivery; biomaterials; biomedical and pharmaceutical applications of gels; engineered gels for environmental applications; applications of gel-based materials and their composites in energy generation and storage; sensors; piezoelectric materials; nanomaterials for biomedical applications; regenerative medicine; green chemistry applications; green design in sustainable chemistry; biotechnology; green catalysis
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Polymer hydrogels are attractive materials utilized for the controlled release of drugs and therapeutic agents due to their ability to embed biologically active agents in 3D water-swollen networks. The latest advancements in natural biomaterials, polymer chemistry and the bioengineering domain have facilitated numerous developments in the field of hydrogels for the sustained delivery of therapeutic agents. In light of this, the current Special Issue is focused on the state of the art in the field of hydrogels, focusing on several exciting subjects, including cross-linking methods, stimuli-responsive hydrogels, multicomponent hydrogels, aerogels, and the release of therapeutic agents from 3D-printed hydrogels. Therefore, the challenges that have been overcome due to advanced development in the fields of biodegradable, biocompatible and temperature- and pH-stimuli-responsive hydrogels and interactions between hydrogels and therapeutic agents will be also highlighted.

This Special Issue will also focus on the physical, chemical, pharmacotechnical and biological characterization of polymer hydrogels using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), rheology and thermal analysis methods and their applications in regenerative medicine and pharmacy. The structure–property relationships of hydrogels are necessary to establish a correlation between the design and shape of a polymer hydrogel and the different drug delivery applications.

In this Special Issue, theoretical and experimental contributions in the forms of literature reviews, full-length original research articles and short communications are welcome.

We welcome and look forward to your submissions.

Dr. Adina Magdalena Musuc
Dr. Magdalena Mititelu
Dr. Mariana Chelu
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Gels is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • hydrogels
  • drug delivery
  • therapeutic agents
  • natural biopolymers
  • aerogels
  • polymer gels properties
  • biomedical applications
  • tissue engineering
  • smart hydrogels
  • stimuli-responsive gels
  • biomaterials
  • physical-chemical characterization
  • 3D printing
  • structure-property relationship
  • regenerative medicine

Related Special Issue

Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

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20 pages, 4307 KiB  
Article
Formulation of Budesonide-Loaded Polymeric Nanoparticles into Hydrogels for Local Therapy of Atopic Dermatitis
by Marta Slavkova, Christophor Lazov, Ivanka Spassova, Daniela Kovacheva, Ivanka Pencheva-El Tibi, Denitsa Stefanova, Virginia Tzankova, Petar D. Petrov and Krassimira Yoncheva
Gels 2024, 10(1), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10010079 - 20 Jan 2024
Viewed by 1176
Abstract
Budesonide is a mineral corticoid applied in the local therapy of pediatric atopic dermatitis. Unfortunately, its dermal administration is hindered by the concomitant adverse effects and its physicochemical properties. The characteristic pH change in the atopic lesions can be utilized for the preparation [...] Read more.
Budesonide is a mineral corticoid applied in the local therapy of pediatric atopic dermatitis. Unfortunately, its dermal administration is hindered by the concomitant adverse effects and its physicochemical properties. The characteristic pH change in the atopic lesions can be utilized for the preparation of a pH-sensitive nanocarrier. In this view, the formulation of Eudragit L 100 nanoparticles as a budesonide delivery platform could provide more efficient release to the desired site, improve its penetration, and subsequently lower the undesired effects. In this study, budesonide-loaded Eudragit L100 nanoparticles were prepared via the nanoprecipitation method (mean diameter 57 nm, −31.2 mV, and approx. 90% encapsulation efficiency). Their safety was proven by cytotoxicity assays on the HaCaT keratinocyte cell line. Further, the drug-loaded nanoparticles were incorporated into two types of hydrogels based on methylcellulose or Pluronic F127. The formulated hydrogels were characterized with respect to their pH, occlusion, rheology, penetration, spreadability, and drug release. In conclusion, the developed hydrogels containing budesonide-loaded nanoparticles showed promising potential for the pediatric treatment of atopic dermatitis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Therapeutic Agents)
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13 pages, 2266 KiB  
Article
Employing of Curcumin–Silver Nanoparticle-Incorporated Sodium Alginate-Co-Acacia Gum Film Hydrogels for Wound Dressing
by Fahad M. Aldakheel, Dalia Mohsen, Marwa M. El Sayed, Mohammed H. Fagir and Dalia K. El Dein
Gels 2023, 9(10), 780; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9100780 - 25 Sep 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1392
Abstract
Skin wound healing is time-consuming and frequently accompanied by bacterial infections and the development of scars. The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains has sparked a growing interest in naturally occurring bioactive substances, like curcumin, that possess wound-healing capabilities. Silver is a natural antimicrobial [...] Read more.
Skin wound healing is time-consuming and frequently accompanied by bacterial infections and the development of scars. The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains has sparked a growing interest in naturally occurring bioactive substances, like curcumin, that possess wound-healing capabilities. Silver is a natural antimicrobial agent, and finds extensive use in specialized wound dressings. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using an eco-friendly approach, employing curcumin. The prepared nanoparticles have been characterized using TEM, DLS, and zeta potential. The prepared AgNPs were loaded on sodium alginate-co-gum arabic hydrogel. Two hydrogel samples (with and without AgNPs) have been applied for wound healing. The developed silver nanoparticles that were created exhibited effective action against both types of bacteria, namely Gram-negative and Gram-positive. Alg-co-AG-AgNPs demonstrated faster wound healing rates compared to using the control hydrogel sample. The novel dressings of curcumin–silver nanoparticle-incorporated sodium alginate-co-gum arabic hydrogels (Alg-co-AG-AgNPs) exhibited exceptional biocompatibility and have the potential to serve as a wound dressing that possesses antibacterial properties and reduces scarring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Therapeutic Agents)
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17 pages, 8687 KiB  
Article
Electrosprayed Stearic-Acid-Coated Ethylcellulose Microparticles for an Improved Sustained Release of Anticancer Drug
by Yuexin Ji, Hua Zhao, Hui Liu, Ping Zhao and Deng-Guang Yu
Gels 2023, 9(9), 700; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9090700 - 29 Aug 2023
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 1264
Abstract
Sustained release is highly desired for “efficacious, safe and convenient” drug delivery, particularly for those anticancer drug molecules with toxicity. In this study, a modified coaxial electrospraying process was developed to coat a hydrophobic lipid, i.e., stearic acid (SA), on composites composed of [...] Read more.
Sustained release is highly desired for “efficacious, safe and convenient” drug delivery, particularly for those anticancer drug molecules with toxicity. In this study, a modified coaxial electrospraying process was developed to coat a hydrophobic lipid, i.e., stearic acid (SA), on composites composed of the anticancer drug tamoxifen citrate (TC) and insoluble polymeric matrix ethylcellulose (EC). Compared with the electrosprayed TC-EC composite microparticles M1, the electrosprayed SA-coated hybrid microparticles M2 were able to provide an improved TC sustained-release profile. The 30% and 90% loaded drug sustained-release time periods were extended to 3.21 h and 19.43 h for M2, respectively, which were significantly longer than those provided by M1 (0.88 h and 9.98 h, respectively). The morphology, inner structure, physical state, and compatibility of the components of the particles M1 and M2 were disclosed through SEM, TEM, XRD, and FTIR. Based on the analyses, the drug sustained-release mechanism of multiple factors co-acting for microparticles M2 is suggested, which include the reasonable selections and organizations of lipid and polymeric excipient, the blank SA shell drug loading, the regularly round shape, and also the high density. The reported protocols pioneered a brand-new manner for developing sustained drug delivery hybrids through a combination of insoluble cellulose gels and lipid using modified coaxial electrospraying. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Therapeutic Agents)
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13 pages, 2640 KiB  
Article
Green Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles Loaded in Polysaccharide Hydrogel Applied to Chronic Wound Healing in Mice Models
by Fahad M. Aldakheel, Dalia Mohsen, Marwa M. El Sayed, Mohammed H. Fagir and Dalia K. El Dein
Gels 2023, 9(8), 646; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9080646 - 11 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1197
Abstract
The prevalence of chronic wounds is increasing owing to the expanding population and the growing number of individuals suffering from diabetes. Such a chronic wound continues to be a significant healthcare burden for diabetic patients because it frequently carries a high chance of [...] Read more.
The prevalence of chronic wounds is increasing owing to the expanding population and the growing number of individuals suffering from diabetes. Such a chronic wound continues to be a significant healthcare burden for diabetic patients because it frequently carries a high chance of limb loss due to amputation and reduces survival as a result. Development of innovative wound dressing materials with the potential to stop bacterial infections and accelerate the process of tissue regeneration is needed to increase the effectiveness of diabetic wound healing. In the current study, a co-polymerization process based on a free radical reaction was used to create a hydrogel of polysaccharides blend graft acrylamide (PsB-g-Am). Starch, chitosan, and alginate make up the polysaccharides blend (PsB). The produced hydrogel’s structure was characterized using FTIR spectroscopy. The antibacterial activities of silver nanoparticles synthesized through the green method using garlic bulb (Allium sativum) is reported. The silver nanoparticles’ physical characteristics were examined using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy analysis, and UV-visible spectroscopy and they were found to range in size from 50 to 100 nm. The agar well diffusion technique is used to investigate the antibacterial characteristics. Inclusion of silver nanoparticles in the hydrogels demonstrated concentration-dependent antibacterial behavior against Gram-negative Klebsiella pneumoniae and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus during antimicrobial testing of the hydrogels. When hydrogels were applied to diabetic mice, the system was examined for its healing abilities, and positive therapeutic results were obtained in as little as 14 days. Thus, it can be inferred that graft copolymer of chitosan-AgNPs hydrogels can promote healing in chronic wounds over time and can be utilized as an alternative to conventional therapies for chronic wounds (such as those brought on by diabetes) in mouse models. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Therapeutic Agents)
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24 pages, 3422 KiB  
Article
GastroPlus- and HSPiP-Oriented Predictive Parameters as the Basis of Valproic Acid-Loaded Mucoadhesive Cationic Nanoemulsion Gel for Improved Nose-to-Brain Delivery to Control Convulsion in Humans
by Afzal Hussain, Mohammad A. Altamimi, Mohhammad Ramzan, Mohd Aamir Mirza and Tahir Khuroo
Gels 2023, 9(8), 603; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9080603 - 26 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1054
Abstract
Oral and parenteral delivery routes of valproic acid (VA) are associated with serious adverse effects, high hepatic metabolism, high clearance, and low bioavailability in the brain. A GastroPlus program was used to predict in vivo performance of immediate (IR) and sustained release (SR) [...] Read more.
Oral and parenteral delivery routes of valproic acid (VA) are associated with serious adverse effects, high hepatic metabolism, high clearance, and low bioavailability in the brain. A GastroPlus program was used to predict in vivo performance of immediate (IR) and sustained release (SR) products in humans. HSPiP software 5.4.08 predicted excipients with maximum possible miscibility of the drug. Based on the GastroPlus and HSPiP program, various excipients were screened for experimental solubility, nanoemulsions, and respective gel studies intended for nasal-to-brain delivery. These were characterized by size, size distribution, polydispersity index, zeta potential, morphology, pH, % transmittance, drug content, and viscosity. In vitro drug release, ex vivo permeation profile (goat nasal mucosa), and penetration studies were conducted. Results showed that in vivo oral drug dissolution and absorption were predicted as 98.6 mg and 18.8 mg, respectively, from both tablets (IR and SR) at 8 h using GastroPlus. The predicted drug access to the portal vein was substantially higher in IR (115 mg) compared to SR (82.6 mg). The plasma drug concentration–time profile predicted was in good agreement with published reports. The program predicted duodenum and jejunum as the prime sites of the drug absorption and no effect of nanonization on Tmax for sustained release formulation. Hansen parameters suggested a suitable selection of excipients. The program recommended nasal-to-brain delivery of the drug using a cationic mucoadhesive nanoemulsion. The optimized CVE6 was associated with the optimal size (113 nm), low PDI (polydispersity index) (0.26), high zeta potential (+34.7 mV), high transmittance (97.8%), and high strength (0.7% w/w). In vitro release and ex vivo permeation of CVE6 were found to be substantially high as compared to anionic AVE6 and respective gels. A penetration study using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) executed high fluorescence intensity with CVE6 and CVE6-gel as compared to suspension and ANE6. This might be attributed to the electrostatic interaction existing between the mucosal membrane and nanoglobules. Thus, cationic nanoemulsions and respective mucoadhesive gels are promising strategies for the delivery of VA to the brain through intransal administration for the treatment of seizures and convulsions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Therapeutic Agents)
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13 pages, 21489 KiB  
Article
Photodynamic Therapy with Aminolevulinic Acid Enhances the Cellular Activity of Cells Cultured on Porcine Acellular Dermal Matrix Membranes Used in Periodontology
by Morena Petrini, Emira D’Amico, Tania Vanessa Pierfelice, Gitana Maria Aceto, Maryia Karaban, Pietro Felice, Adriano Piattelli, Antonio Barone and Giovanna Iezzi
Gels 2023, 9(7), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9070584 - 20 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 990
Abstract
This study aims to test a photodynamic protocol based on a gel containing aminolevulinic acid followed by red-LED (ALAD-PDT) irradiation on human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs) and osteoblasts (hOBs) cultured on a porcine acellular dermal matrix membrane (PADMM). In the previous literature, ALAD-PDT showed [...] Read more.
This study aims to test a photodynamic protocol based on a gel containing aminolevulinic acid followed by red-LED (ALAD-PDT) irradiation on human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs) and osteoblasts (hOBs) cultured on a porcine acellular dermal matrix membrane (PADMM). In the previous literature, ALAD-PDT showed solid antibacterial activity and proliferative induction on HGFs cultured on plates and HOBs cultured on a cortical lamina. PADMMs are used in dentistry and periodontology to treat gingival recessions and to increase the tissue thickness in the case of a thin biotype without the risks or postoperative discomfort associated with connective tissue grafts. However, one of the possible complications in this type of surgery is represented by bacterial invasion and membrane exposition during the healing period. We hypothesized that the addition of ALAD-PDT to PADMMs could enhance more rapid healing and decrease the risks connected with bacterial invasion. In periodontal surgery, PADMMs are inserted after a full-thickness flap elevation between the bone and the flap. Consequently, all procedures were performed in parallel on hOBs and hGFs obtained by dental patients. The group control (CTRL) was represented by the unexposed cells cultured on the membranes, group LED (PDT) were the cells subjected to 7 min of red LED irradiation, and ALAD-PDT were the cells subjected to 45 min of ALAD incubation and then to 7 min of red LED irradiation. After treatments, all groups were analyzed for MTT assay and subjected to histological examination at 3 and 7 days and to the SEM observations at 3, 7, and 14 days. Different bone mineralization assays were performed to quantify the effects of ALAD-PDT on hOBs: ALP activity, ALP gene expression, osteocalcin, and alizarin red. The effects of ALAD-PDT on hGFs were evaluated by quantifying collagen 1, fibronectin, and MMP-8. Results showed that ALAD-PDT promoted cellular induction, forming a dense cellular network on hOBs and hGFs, and the assays performed showed statistically significantly higher values for ALAD-PDT with respect to LED alone and CTRLs. In conclusion, ALAD-PDT could represent a promising aid for enhancing the healing of gingival tissues after PADMM applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Therapeutic Agents)
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24 pages, 10655 KiB  
Article
Gel Formulations with an Echinocandin for Cutaneous Candidiasis: The Influence of Azone and Transcutol on Biopharmaceutical Features
by Noelia Pérez-González, Lupe Carolina Espinoza, María Rincón, Lilian Sosa, Mireia Mallandrich, Joaquim Suñer-Carbó, Nuria Bozal-de Febrer, Ana Cristina Calpena and Beatriz Clares-Naveros
Gels 2023, 9(4), 308; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9040308 - 06 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1634
Abstract
Caspofungin is a drug that is used for fungal infections that are difficult to treat, including invasive aspergillosis and candidemia, as well as other forms of invasive candidiasis. The aim of this study was to incorporate Azone in a caspofungin gel (CPF-AZ-gel) and [...] Read more.
Caspofungin is a drug that is used for fungal infections that are difficult to treat, including invasive aspergillosis and candidemia, as well as other forms of invasive candidiasis. The aim of this study was to incorporate Azone in a caspofungin gel (CPF-AZ-gel) and compare it with a promoter-free caspofungin gel (CPF-gel). An in vitro release study using a polytetrafluoroethylene membrane and ex vivo permeation into human skin was adopted. The tolerability properties were confirmed by histological analysis, and an evaluation of the biomechanical properties of the skin was undertaken. Antimicrobial efficacy was determined against Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida tropicalis. CPF-AZ-gel and CPF-gel, which had a homogeneous appearance, pseudoplastic behavior, and high spreadability, were obtained. The biopharmaceutical studies confirmed that caspofungin was released following a one-phase exponential association model and the CPF-AZ gel showed a higher release. The CPF-AZ gel showed higher retention of caspofungin in the skin while limiting the diffusion of the drug to the receptor fluid. Both formulations were well-tolerated in the histological sections, as well as after their topical application in the skin. These formulations inhibited the growth of C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, and C. tropicalis, while C. albicans showed resistance. In summary, dermal treatment with caspofungin could be used as a promising therapy for cutaneous candidiasis in patients that are refractory or intolerant to conventional antifungal agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Therapeutic Agents)
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Review

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18 pages, 1149 KiB  
Review
NaDES Application in Cosmetic and Pharmaceutical Fields: An Overview
by Carla Villa, Debora Caviglia, Francesco Saverio Robustelli della Cuna, Guendalina Zuccari and Eleonora Russo
Gels 2024, 10(2), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10020107 - 28 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1835
Abstract
Natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDES) represent a new generation of green, non-flammable solvents, useful as an efficient alternative to the well-known ionic liquids. They can be easily prepared and exhibit unexpected solubilizing power for lipophilic molecules, although those of a hydrophilic nature are [...] Read more.
Natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDES) represent a new generation of green, non-flammable solvents, useful as an efficient alternative to the well-known ionic liquids. They can be easily prepared and exhibit unexpected solubilizing power for lipophilic molecules, although those of a hydrophilic nature are mostly used. For their unique properties, they can be recommend for different cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications, ranging from sustainable extraction, obtaining ready-to-use ingredients, to the development of biocompatible drug delivery responsive systems. In the biomedical field, NaDES can be used as biopolymer modifiers, acting as delivery compounds also known as “therapeutic deep eutectic systems”, being able to solubilize and stabilize different chemical and galenical formulations. The aim of this review is to give an overview of the current knowledge regarding natural deep eutectic solvents specifically applied in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical fields. The work could help to disclose new opportunities and challenges for their implementation not only as green alternative solvents but also as potential useful pathways to deliver bioactive ingredients in innovative formulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Therapeutic Agents)
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30 pages, 9896 KiB  
Review
Aloe vera-Based Hydrogels for Wound Healing: Properties and Therapeutic Effects
by Mariana Chelu, Adina Magdalena Musuc, Monica Popa and Jose Calderon Moreno
Gels 2023, 9(7), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9070539 - 03 Jul 2023
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 9721
Abstract
Aloe vera-based hydrogels have emerged as promising platforms for the delivery of therapeutic agents in wound dressings due to their biocompatibility and unique wound-healing properties. The present study provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the application of Aloe vera-based [...] Read more.
Aloe vera-based hydrogels have emerged as promising platforms for the delivery of therapeutic agents in wound dressings due to their biocompatibility and unique wound-healing properties. The present study provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the application of Aloe vera-based hydrogels for wound healing. The synthesis methods, structural characteristics, and properties of Aloe vera-based hydrogels are discussed. Mechanisms of therapeutic agents released from Aloe vera-based hydrogels, including diffusion, swelling, and degradation, are also analyzed. In addition, the therapeutic effects of Aloe vera-based hydrogels on wound healing, as well as the reduction of inflammation, antimicrobial activity, and tissue regeneration, are highlighted. The incorporation of various therapeutic agents, such as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ones, into Aloe vera-based hydrogels is reviewed in detail. Furthermore, challenges and future prospects of Aloe vera-based hydrogels for wound dressing applications are considered. This review provides valuable information on the current status of Aloe vera-based hydrogels for the delivery of therapeutic agents in wound dressings and highlights their potential to improve wound healing outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Therapeutic Agents)
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22 pages, 5010 KiB  
Review
Progress in Surface Modification of Titanium Implants by Hydrogel Coatings
by Huangqin Chen, Rui Feng, Tian Xia, Zhehan Wen, Qing Li, Xin Qiu, Bin Huang and Yuesheng Li
Gels 2023, 9(5), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9050423 - 18 May 2023
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2897
Abstract
Although titanium and titanium alloys have become the preferred materials for various medical implants, surface modification technology still needs to be strengthened in order to adapt to the complex physiological environment of the human body. Compared with physical or chemical modification methods, biochemical [...] Read more.
Although titanium and titanium alloys have become the preferred materials for various medical implants, surface modification technology still needs to be strengthened in order to adapt to the complex physiological environment of the human body. Compared with physical or chemical modification methods, biochemical modification, such as the introduction of functional hydrogel coating on implants, can fix biomolecules such as proteins, peptides, growth factors, polysaccharides, or nucleotides on the surface of the implants, so that they can directly participate in biological processes; regulate cell adhesion, proliferation, migration, and differentiation; and improve the biological activity on the surface of the implants. This review begins with a look at common substrate materials for hydrogel coatings on implant surfaces, including natural polymers such as collagen, gelatin, chitosan, and alginate, and synthetic materials such as polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylamide, polyethylene glycol, and polyacrylic acid. Then, the common construction methods of hydrogel coating (electrochemical method, sol–gel method and layer-by-layer self-assembly method) are introduced. Finally, five aspects of the enhancement effect of hydrogel coating on the surface bioactivity of titanium and titanium alloy implants are described: osseointegration, angiogenesis, macrophage polarization, antibacterial effects, and drug delivery. In this paper, we also summarize the latest research progress and point out the future research direction. After searching, no previous relevant literature reporting this information was found. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogel for Sustained Delivery of Therapeutic Agents)
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