About this Research Topic
Comprising natural or synthetic polymers, these hydrogels are engineered for optimal biocompatibility, biodegradability, and adhesive functionality. Their adhesive properties are achieved through physical adsorption, covalent bonding, or specific biological recognition mechanisms, ensuring precise localization and stabilization while mitigating inflammatory responses and expediting healing processes.
This topic aims to spotlight cutting-edge advancements in the nexus of biomaterials and medicine, with a focus on hydrogel adhesives for tissue repair. Emphasizing innovative design, synthesis, and biomaterial selection, contributions will explore diverse applications spanning skin, nerve, liver, oral cavity, and beyond. Central to this endeavor is a deep understanding of the intricate interplay between hydrogel-tissue interfaces, encompassing fundamental, translational, and clinical research endeavors.
Specific topics of interest include:
1. Innovative Design and Synthesis: Novel strategies for enhancing the adhesive properties, biocompatibility, and biodegradability of hydrogel formulations.
2. Mechanisms of Adhesion: Elucidation of molecular mechanisms governing hydrogel-tissue interactions and exploration of diverse adhesion strategies.
3. Biological Interactions and Integration: Examination of hydrogel-mediated cellular responses, encompassing cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, immune modulation, and pro-regenerative cues.
4. Drug Delivery and Therapeutic Applications: Harnessing adhesive hydrogels as versatile platforms for targeted and sustained drug delivery, with a focus on wound healing, nerve regeneration, and cartilage repair.
5. Clinical and Translational Studies: Evaluation of safety, efficacy, and outcomes through clinical trials and case studies, alongside considerations for scalability, manufacturing, and regulatory pathways.
By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and disseminating innovative research findings, this topic seeks to propel the development of adhesive hydrogels as transformative solutions in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Researchers are encouraged to contribute their insights, advancing our collective understanding and shaping the future of medical interventions in this dynamic field.
Keywords: Tissue regeneration, adhesiveness, hydrogel technology, bioactive materials, cell adhesion
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.