Stimuli-Responsive Hydrogels: The Dynamic Smart Biomaterials of Tomorrow

Abstract

In the past decade, stimuli-responsive hydrogels are increasingly studied as biomaterials for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine purposes. Smart hydrogels can not only replicate the physicochemical properties of the extracellular matrix but also mimic dynamic processes that are crucial for the regulation of cell behavior. Dynamic changes can be influenced by the hydrogel itself (isotropic vs anisotropic) or guided by applying localized triggers. The resulting swelling-shrinking, shape-morphing, as well as patterns have been shown to influence cell function in a spatiotemporally controlled manner. Furthermore, the use of stimuli-responsive hydrogels as bioinks in 4D bioprinting is very promising as they allow the biofabrication of complex microstructures. This perspective discusses recent cutting-edge advances as well as current challenges in the field of smart biomaterials for tissue engineering. Additionally, emerging trends and potential future directions are addressed.