TRENDS IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND APPLICATION OF HYDROGELS AS INNOVATIVE BIOMATERIALS Ya. I. HOLUBOVSKA, M. S. KURKA

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ISSN 2410-7751 (Print)
ISSN 2410-776X (Online)
License CC-BY.
cover biotech acta general

Biotechnologia Acta V. 19, No. 5 2026
P. 30-41, Bibliography , Engl.
UDC 678.742.2:615.011.
doi:

Full text: (PDF, in English)

TRENDS IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND APPLICATION OF HYDROGELS
AS INNOVATIVE BIOMATERIALS

Ya. I. HOLUBOVSKA (https://orcid.org/0009-0008-9021-6660)
M. S. KURKA (http://orcid.org/0000-0003-2368-2182)

Lviv Polytechnic National University, Ukraine

Aim. To summarize and systematize contemporary scientific data on hydrogels as one of the leading classes of biomaterials; to analyze the stages of their historical development, as well as their structural and functional modifications; and to evaluate the prospects for the application of hydrogel systems in biotechnology, pharmacy, medicine, and cosmetology.

Methods. A comprehensive analysis and synthesis of scientific publications on hydrogels was conducted, with particular attention to their classification, structural features, physicochemical properties, and methods of preparation. Current approaches to modifying hydrogel matrices and the main directions of their practical applications across various scientific and industrial fields were analyzed.

Results. The review systematizes data on the main types of hydrogels, their structural characteristics, and functional properties. The key stages in the evolution of hydrogel materials and current trends in their use as innovative platforms for cell therapy, tissue engineering, medicine, pharmacy, and biotechnology are highlighted. Special attention is given to the potential of loading hydrogel matrices with biologically active substances, which enables the development of systems with controlled properties aimed at restoring and improving the functional state of the organism.

Conclusions. The review confirms the leading role of hydrogels among modern biomaterials due to their combination of high hydrophilicity, biocompatibility, and the ability to regulate physicochemical characteristics. Promising directions for further research aimed at the development of multifunctional hydrogels to meet the needs of the pharmaceutical and medical fields are outlined.

Keywords: hydrogel, biomaterials, biotechnology, bioactive compounds.