Within the field of materials science, bio-inspired hydrogels are emerging as innovative solutions to combat microbial infections across diverse sectors, including healthcare, environmental protection, and food safety. Traditionally, the limitations of conventional antimicrobial agents, such as resistance and environmental toxicity, have driven the demand for new materials that are both effective and sustainable. Recent breakthroughs in mimicking biological processes have led to the development of hydrogels with remarkable antimicrobial properties and biofilm resistance, accomplished through the integration of natural polymer designs that offer biocompatibility and respond dynamically to environmental stimuli. Despite these advancements, there remains a critical need to further explore the potential of these materials in real-world applications, optimize their antimicrobial efficacy, and ensure their safety and sustainability. Current research is focused on understanding the interactions at the microbial interface and developing interdisciplinary approaches to enhance the performance of these hydrogels.

This research topic aims to explore the potential of bio-inspired hydrogels to provide solutions for microbial resistance and contamination. The focus is on synthesizing new materials that incorporate natural polymers and functionalities capable of effectively killing bacteria and preventing biofilm formation, as well as assessing these materials in real-world scenarios. Interdisciplinary efforts will be pivotal, involving cooperation among chemists, biologists, and materials scientists to optimize hydrogel architectures for maximum antimicrobial action, analyze interactions at the microbial interface, and ensure safety through comprehensive biocompatibility assessments.

To gather further insights in the realm of bio-inspired hydrogels, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Chemical Design and Synthesis of Bio-Inspired Hydrogels: Novel routes and green chemistry methodologies.
- Functionalization and Cross-Linking Strategies: Innovations in stability and antimicrobial efficacy.
- Chemical Characterization and Analysis: Advanced methods for structural and functional assessment.
- Innovative Delivery Systems: Strategies for controlled and targeted antimicrobial delivery.

By advancing this cutting-edge research, we aim to significantly enhance the capabilities of hydrogels to address urgent public health and environmental challenges posed by microbial threats.

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Frontiers in Materials

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