Harnessing Hydrogels for Precise Cancer Therapy: Innovations and Applications

Yushan Xie

doi:10.54097/dcjh0894

Authors

Yushan Xie

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54097/dcjh0894

Keywords:

Hydrogels; cancer treatment; drug delivery; Intratumoral delivery; adenosinergic axis; immunosuppression.

Abstract

Hydrogels, characterized by hydrophilic networks and ECM-like structures, serve as versatile platforms for drug delivery and tumor microenvironment (TME) modeling. They enable precise drug administration, minimize side effects, and enhance therapeutic efficacy. Intratumoral delivery strategies using smart hydrogels offer targeted drug release, while in vitro TME models replicate complex interactions. Additionally, an innovative injectable hydrogel strategy reshapes the adenosinergic axis, converting immunosuppressive adenosine to immune-enhancing inosine. The S@ABD hydrogel demonstrates remarkable potential in reversing the axis, amplifying Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) release, and reshaping the TME, promising effective cancer therapy. In summary, this review highlights the transformative role of hydrogels in cancer treatment, hydrogels redefine cancer research and therapy paradigms, holding the key to personalized and potent treatments.

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