Abstract
Shape memory polymers (SMPs) circumscribe materials exhibiting responsive behavior to diverse external stimuli, ranging from heat and light to electric and magnetic fields. Originating in mid-20th-century studies, the realm of SMPs has expanded swiftly, tapping into the domains of biomedical applications, revolutionizing biomaterials, and finding applications from medical devices to regenerative medicine. Evolving beyond biocompatibility, the emphasis shifted to cytocompatible SMPs for cell mechanobiology, paving the way for direct cell-responsive SMPs. Recent breakthroughs in enzymatically triggered SMPs, particularly those influenced by cellular enzymatic activity, signify a transformative leap. This opens avenues for precision drug delivery and biosensors, merging SMPs with biomedical applications. This commentary celebrates the discovery of polymers responding to cells, unfolding the promising future of SMPs in personalized medicine, and seamlessly integrating advanced materials with cellular therapies for groundbreaking medical solutions.
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