“Smart” alginate hydrogels in biosensing, bioactuation and biocomputing: State-of-the-art and perspectives

Abstract

In addressing the demand for biocompatible wearable, implantable and injectable biomedical devices, alginate hydrogels stand out as promising candidates. Alginate hydrogels have been used as matrix for immobilization of proteins, responsive polymers and nanomaterials that lead to a wide range of stimuli-responsive “smart” (bio)(nano)composite hydrogels. In this perspective, we analyzed the most recent applications of “smart” alginate composite hydrogels in biomedical applications, such as biosensing, drug delivery, wound healing and biocomputing. The design and key-responsive element of the composites were discussed as well as their practical application in biologically relevant conditions and in vivo. Finally, we provide our insights into the limitations, challenges and future directions of this exciting research field.