Title:Synthesis and Applications of Hydrogels in Cancer Therapy
VOLUME: 20 ISSUE: 12
Author(s):Anchal Singhal*, Niharika Sinha, Pratibha Kumari and Manoushikha Purkayastha
Affiliation:Department of Chemistry, St. Joseph's College (Autonomous), Bangalore-560027, Department of Chemistry, Gautam Buddha University, Noida, Department of Chemistry, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi, New Delhi, Department of Chemistry, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi, New Delhi
Keywords:Hydrogels, biocompatible, polymers, cancer therapy, drug discovery, tissue engineering.
Abstract:Hydrogels are water-insoluble, hydrophilic, cross-linked, three-dimensional networks of polymer
chains having the ability to swell and absorb water but do not dissolve in it, that comprise the major difference
between gels and hydrogels. The mechanical strength, physical integrity and solubility are offered by the
crosslinks. The different applications of hydrogels can be derived based on the methods of their synthesis, response
to different stimuli, and their different kinds. Hydrogels are highly biocompatible and have properties
similar to human tissues that make it suitable to be used in various biomedical applications, including drug delivery
and tissue engineering. The role of hydrogels in cancer therapy is highly emerging in recent years. In the
present review, we highlighted different methods of synthesis of hydrogels and their classification based on
different parameters. Distinctive applications of hydrogels in the treatment of cancer are also discussed.