Electrospining: Recent advances in fibrillar hydrogels: properties, applications, and prospects

Background

Fibrous hydrogels (FGs), characterized by 3D network structures made of prefabricated fibers, fibrils, and polymer materials, have become important materials in many fields. However, the challenge of balancing mechanical properties and functions has hindered their further development. Recently, Zhang Di from Sun Yat-sen University, Jin Lin from Zhoukou Normal University, and Yang Zhe from Xi'an Jiaotong University published a review outlining the latest developments in fibrous hydrogels. The relevant research results were published in the journal Advanced Science (IF 14.3) under the title "Recent Development of Fibrous Hydrogels: Properties, Applications and Perspectives".

The main point of this paper

1. The main advantages of FGs, including enhanced mechanical properties, high electrical conductivity, high antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, stimuli responsiveness, and extracellular matrix (ECM)-like structure, are reviewed.

2. The effects of assembly methods, such as fiber cross-linking, interfacial treatment of fibers and hydrogel matrix, and supramolecular assembly, on the various functions of FGs are discussed.

3. The mechanisms for improving the performance of the above five aspects are also discussed, such as the creation of ion carrier channels for conductivity, in situ gelation of drugs for enhanced antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and entanglement and hydrophobic interactions between fibers to produce ECM-like structures of FGs.

4. This paper also discusses the application of FGs in sensors, dressings, and tissue scaffolds based on the synergistic effects of optimizing performance.

5.Finally, the challenges and future applications of FGs are discussed, providing a theoretical basis and new insights for the design and application of cutting-edge FGs.

How do different assembly methods affect the functionality of fibrous hydrogels?

1. Fiber cross-linking: The cross-linking method of prefabricated fibers to hydrogels can enhance the mechanical properties and stability of FGs. This process can create a more robust network that can better withstand mechanical stress.

2. Interface treatment: Treatment of the interface between the fiber and the hydrogel matrix can improve the interaction between the two. This can lead to better load transfer and enhanced mechanical properties, as well as improved functions such as conductivity and responsiveness.

3.Supramolecular assembly: Assembling FGs using supramolecular interactions can create dynamic structures that mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM). This approach allows the introduction of various bioactive molecules to enhance the biological functions of hydrogels, such as promoting cell adhesion and proliferation.

4. In situ assembly of fibers: In situ assembly of fibers (such as peptides and protein molecules) can form hydrogels with customized properties. This approach allows the mechanical and biological properties of hydrogels to be tailored to the specific needs of the application.

5. Manufacturing technology: Techniques such as spinning, 3D printing, and microfluidic spinning can be used to create FGs with specific structures and properties. These methods allow precise control over the alignment and distribution of fibers within the hydrogel, which can significantly affect the overall performance and functionality of the material.

Fiber hydrogels (FGs) have been widely used in many fields due to their superior performance and versatility, mainly including:

1. Tissue engineering: FGs can be used as cell scaffolds to promote cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation, and are widely used in the regeneration and repair of skin, bone, cartilage and other tissues.

2. Drug delivery systems: By embedding drugs or bioactive molecules in FGs, controlled release can be achieved to enhance the bioavailability and therapeutic effects of drugs, especially in antibacterial and anti-inflammatory treatments.

3. Sensors: The conductivity and responsiveness of FGs make them ideal materials for the development of biosensors, which can be used to detect biomolecules, environmental pollutants, etc.

4. Smart textiles: FGs can be used to make textiles with smart response properties, such as materials that change their properties under temperature, humidity or other external stimuli.

5. Water treatment: FGs perform well in water purification and filtration, and can effectively remove pollutants and harmful substances from water.

6. Wound dressings: Due to their good biocompatibility and antibacterial properties, FGs can be used to make wound dressings to promote wound healing and prevent infection.

7. Bioelectronic devices: The conductivity and flexibility of FGs make them suitable for use in bioelectronic devices, such as bioelectrodes and wearable devices.

8. Cell culture medium: FGs can be used as a support material for cell culture, providing a suitable microenvironment to promote cell growth and function.