Current Status of Research on Biomimetic Hydrogels for Articular Cartilage

The primary objective of Cartilage Tissue Engineering (CTE) involves repairing or rebuilding impaired cartilage in an effort to restore joint functionality and enhance patients' quality of life. In this field, researchers are constantly exploring new materials and technologies to address the challenges posed by cartilage damage. Biomimetic hydrogels present several distinct advantages in articular cartilage repair when compared to conventional treatment methods like minimally invasive surgery, joint replacement, and drug therapies. These hydrogels effectively mimic the mechanical characteristics of natural cartilage while also promoting cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation through the inclusion of bioactive factors. This results in the creation of high-performance biomaterials, positioning them as a particularly promising therapeutic option. Recently, researchers have drawn inspiration from the intricate structures found in soft tissues to develop various types of biomimetic hydrogels. These innovative hydrogels find applications across various fields, such as biomedicine, tissue engineering, and flexible electronics. In tissue engineering, these materials serve as optimal scaffolds for cartilage regeneration and aid in restoring tissue function. Nevertheless, creating and manufacturing biomimetic hydrogels with complex designs, strong mechanical properties, and multifunctionality poses significant challenges. This paper reviews existing studies on natural and synthetic matrices for biomimetic hydrogels, explores the similarities between these hydrogels and natural cartilage, examines their biological and physical characteristics, discusses their advantages and limitations, and suggests future research avenues.