reviewPolymersJul 24, 2025GOLD OA

Advancements in Hydrogels: A Comprehensive Review of Natural and Synthetic Innovations for Biomedical Applications

West University of Timişoara · University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova · +1 more institution

PubMed
Indexed incrossrefpubmed

Abstract

In the rapidly evolving field of biomedical engineering, hydrogels have emerged as highly versatile biomaterials that bridge biology and technology through their high water content, exceptional biocompatibility, and tunable mechanical properties. This review provides an integrated overview of both natural and synthetic hydrogels, examining their structural properties, fabrication methods, and broad biomedical applications, including drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, wound healing, and regenerative medicine. Natural hydrogels derived from sources such as alginate, gelatin, and chitosan are highlighted for their biodegradability and biocompatibility, though often limited by poor mechanical strength and…

Citation impact

157
total citations
FWCI
70.51
Percentile
100%
References
299
Citations per year

Authors

7

Topics & keywords

Keywords
  • Self-healing hydrogels
  • Nanotechnology
  • Biocompatibility
  • Tissue engineering
  • Regenerative medicine
  • Drug delivery
  • Materials science
  • Biomaterial
UN Sustainable Development Goals
  • Industry, innovation and infrastructure
No related works found for this paper.

Funding