Application of Injectable Hydrogels as Delivery Systems in Spinal Cord Injury

Gels, 2023 · DOI: 10.3390/gels9110907 · Published: November 16, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Pharmacology Biomedical

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe condition that leads to loss of sensory, motor, and autonomous functions. Injectable hydrogels can be used as delivery systems to achieve controlled release of drugs and other substances, offering new hope for SCI repair. This article summarizes the types of injectable hydrogels, analyzes their application as delivery systems in SCI, and further discusses the mechanisms of hydrogels in the treatment of SCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review article

Key Findings

1
Natural hydrogels are efficient scaffolds for functional recovery and drug/cell delivery after SCI.
2
Composite hydrogels offer multiple advantages that facilitate the functional recovery of SCI.
3
Injectable hydrogels as delivery systems can encapsulate different substances, such as cells, drugs, and biomolecules and release them slowly and controllably at the site of injury.

Research Summary

Natural, synthetic, and composite injectable hydrogels can all be used as delivery systems to encapsulate stem cells, drugs, or GFs for a wide range of applications in SCI therapy. The mechanisms by which hydrogels promote SCI repair include anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, anti-apoptosis, and pro-neurogenesis. Hydrogel combined with electromagnetic stimulation or phototherapy can also improve the repair of SCI.

Practical Implications

Drug Delivery

Hydrogels can be used to deliver drugs directly to the site of injury, reducing the need for systemic administration and minimizing side effects.

Stem Cell Therapy

Hydrogels can be used to support and deliver stem cells to the site of injury, promoting tissue regeneration and functional recovery.

Microenvironment Modulation

Hydrogels can be designed to create a supportive microenvironment for nerve regeneration, promoting axon growth and reducing inflammation.

Application of Injectable Hydrogels as Delivery Systems in Spinal Cord Injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Drug Delivery

Stem Cell Therapy

Microenvironment Modulation

Study Limitations

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Application of Injectable Hydrogels as Delivery Systems in Spinal Cord Injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Drug Delivery

Stem Cell Therapy

Microenvironment Modulation

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?