EMERGING ROLE OF HYDROGELS AS DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEMS FOR TISSUE REGENERATION

Aparajita Raina*, Ila Taku and Sapna Raina

ABSTRACT

Hydrogels have emerged as versatile and promising platforms for drug delivery, particularly in the field of tissue regeneration. These three-dimensional, hydrophilic polymer networks can absorb large amounts of biological fluids and provide a moist environment that supports cell proliferation and tissue repair. Due to their tuneable physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and ability to encapsulate and release therapeutic agents in a controlled manner, hydrogels are increasingly being employed to deliver growth factors, peptides, stem cells, and small-molecule drugs directly to damaged tissues. Recent advances in smart hydrogels, which respond to stimuli such as pH, temperature, or enzymes, have further enhanced their precision and efficacy in targeted delivery. Additionally, biodegradable hydrogels reduce the need for surgical removal, promoting seamless integration with host tissue. This review highlights the current trends, design strategies, and applications of hydrogels in drug delivery systems for tissue regeneration, underscoring their potential to revolutionize regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.

Keywords: Drug delivery, hydrophilic polymer, Stimuli-Sensitive Hydrogels, natural extracellular matrix.