Smart Hydrogels: Nanostructured Materials for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

In the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, replicating the intricate hierarchical architecture of biological tissues, ranging from nano- to macro-scale, remains a formidable challenge. However, achieving this holds tremendous potential for advancing functional tissue and organ regeneration. Owing to their gel-like resemblance to the extracellular matrix (ECM), hydrogels stand out as promising scaffolds in this domain. Defined as hydrophilic polymer networks capable of retaining water in nano-sized pores, hydrogels can be tailored across various length scales to provide distinct physical, chemical, and mechanical cues akin to the native ECM, thereby influencing cellular behavior. Furthermore, smart hydrogels, responsive to various physiological stimuli, present opportunities beyond tissue engineering—extending to controlled drug delivery and biosensing applications. The versatility of hydrogels is further showcased in their adaptability as injectable or in situ-formable scaffolds, ensuring minimally invasive and personalized implants. Additionally, they hold potential as engineered living materials (ELMs) through cell integration, aiming for enhanced regenerative outcomes.

This Research Topic aims to present cutting-edge advancements in the design and development of smart nanostructured hydrogels tailored for functional regeneration of adult tissues such as cartilage, skin, and nerves. The objective is to highlight interdisciplinary studies where innovative hydrogel-based biomaterials and technologies address foundational challenges in tissue regeneration while emphasizing the translational bridge from research to clinical application. Such a focus is imperative for realizing practical regenerative therapies that extend beyond theoretical promise and align with clinical realities.

To gather further insights into nanostructured and smart hydrogels, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Bioactive and sustainable biomaterials for hydrogel synthesis

• Nanomaterials and advanced technologies for smart hydrogel fabrication

• Injectable hydrogel formulations for tissue regeneration

• Advanced bioinks and materials for 3D/4D bioprinting

• Bioadhesives and bioinks for minimally invasive surgery

• Hydrogel-based engineered living materials (ELMs)

• Cellular response to nanostructured hydrogels

• Smart hydrogel-based biomaterials and nanostructures for sustained and/or targeted drug/protein delivery

• Regulatory compliance and scaling production for clinical use

By accumulating contributions from varied investigative angles, this Research Topic aspires to inspire ongoing interdisciplinary collaboration, propelling the innovation of safe, effective, and personalized therapies for organ replacement and beyond.