RECENT ADVANCES IN HYDROGEL TECHNOLOGY: FROM SYNTHESIS TO CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

Abstract

Hydrogels are three-dimensional hydrophilic polymeric networks known for their high water absorption capacity, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and resemblance to the natural extracellular matrix, making them highly valuable in pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. Recent advances in polymer science, nanotechnology, and bioengineering have led to the development of smart, injectable, self-healing, and nanocomposite hydrogels with improved mechanical strength and stimuli-responsive behavior. These advanced hydrogel systems have shown significant potential in controlled drug delivery, wound healing, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, cancer therapy, and ophthalmic applications. Emerging fabrication technologies such as 3D/4D bioprinting, microfluidics, and electrospinning have further enhanced the design and functionality of hydrogel-based systems. Despite promising progress, challenges related to scalability, long-term stability, sterilization, and clinical translation still remain. This review highlights recent advances in hydrogel synthesis, characterization, biomedical applications, clinical developments, and future perspectives, emphasizing the growing importance of hydrogels as next-generation biomaterials in modern healthcare.