Journal Article Review Epublish
PubMed: 40710706 DOI: 10.3390/gels11070544
A Comprehensive Review of Thermosensitive Hydrogels: Mechanism, Optimization Strategies, and Applications.
Gels 11(7)
Authors: Tianyang Lv, Yuzhu Chen, Ning Li, Xiaoyu Liao, Yumin Heng, Yayuan Guo, Kaijin Hu
Affiliations
- Xian Key Laboratory for the Prevention and Control of Stomatognathic System Disorders, School of Stomatology, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China. Research Center of Dental and Maxillofacial Tissue Regeneration and Repair Technology, School of Stomatology, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China. Engineering Research Center of Oral and Maxillary System Disease, School of Stomatology, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China.
- Xian Key Laboratory for the Prevention and Control of Stomatognathic System Disorders, School of Stomatology, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an 710021, China.
Abstract
Thermosensitive hydrogels undergo reversible sol-gel phase transitions in response to changes in temperature. Owing to their excellent biocompatibility, mild reaction conditions, and controllable gelation properties, these hydrogels represent a promising class of biomaterials suitable for minimally invasive treatment systems in diverse biomedical applications. This review systematically summarizes the gelation mechanisms of thermosensitive hydrogels and optimization strategies to enhance their performance for broader application requirements. In particular, we highlight recent advances in injectable thermosensitive hydrogels as a carrier within stem cells, bioactive substances, and drug delivery for treating various tissue defects and diseases involving bone, cartilage, and other tissues. Furthermore, we propose challenges and directions for the future development of thermosensitive hydrogels. These insights provide new ideas for researchers to explore novel thermosensitive hydrogels for tissue repair and disease treatment.
MeSH
Hydrogels, Microscopy, Electron, Scanning Transmission, Tissue Engineering, Therapeutics, Tissues