Abstract
In situ-forming hydrogels represent a versatile class of biomaterials with unique viscoelastic properties and gelation kinetics, holding significant promise in various biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. These hydrogels transition from a liquid to a gel-like state within the body, offering controlled drug delivery (DD), tissue engineering, and wound healing capabilities. Viscoelasticity, a defining feature of these hydrogels, combines the attributes of viscosity and elasticity. This property enables the hydrogel to conform to complex anatomical structures while maintaining structural integrity. The viscoelastic behavior is influenced by factors such as polymer concentration, molecular weight, and cross-linking density, all of which play pivotal roles in tailoring the hydrogel's mechanical properties for specific applications. Gelation kinetics, on the other hand, govern the speed at which the liquid precursor transforms into a solid-like hydrogel. Understanding and controlling this process are critical for achieving precise drug release profiles and optimal tissue integration. Gelation kinetics are affected by parameters such as temperature, pH, and the inclusion of cross-linking agents. Researchers are exploring novel methods to modulate gelation kinetics for tailored therapeutic outcomes. In conclusion, the viscoelastic characteristics and gelation kinetics of in situ-forming hydrogels are essential attributes that determine their suitability for a range of biomedical applications. A comprehensive understanding of these properties enables researchers to design hydrogels with enhanced performance, opening new avenues for DD, regenerative medicine, and wound care.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Stimuli-Responsive Hydrogels for Ophthalmic Drug Delivery |
Publisher | Elsevier |
Pages | 475-497 |
Number of pages | 23 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780323991568 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780323993593 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 2024 |
Keywords
- Gelation kinetics
- Gelation mechanism
- Gelation temperature
- In situ-forming hydrogel
- Viscoelastic properties
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Engineering
- General Materials Science