Recent Development of Polysaccharide-Derived Hydrogel: Properties, Stimuli-Responsiveness and Bioapplications

Hydrogels are three-dimensional, hydrophilic, polymeric frameworks, constructed through diverse physical or chemical crosslinks. Recent research focuses on their physiological stimuli sensitivity enhancing bioapplications. Biopolymers with responsiveness to local environment like temperature, pH etc. form the foundation in this regard, around which all major natural processes are circulated. Polysaccharides, being most the abundant biopolymers and essential constituent of our daily food like cereals and fruits, are readily available in nature. Hence, among numerous biomacromolecules, polysaccharides are extensively used to prepare hydrogel recently. However, incorporation of certain properties to these gels through derivatization can trigger stimuli responsiveness suitable for various applications especially in biomedical field inspired from the mother nature. For example, in situ cross-linking ability may deliver an intermediate platform between solid scaffolds and saline injections through reversible or irreversible sol-gel transition. Easy injectability provides patient’s relief through reducing recovery time and inflectional hazards. Self recovery of gel within body results automatic inflammation and damage recovery of tissues. This review provides a detail impression on the synthesis of natural polysaccharide derived hydrogel network with structural classification to bulk, supramolecular, micro and nano gel. Several properties important from biomedical point such as in situ, injectable, self healing nature of these hydrogels and various physical, chemical, or biochemical stimuli-responsive characteristics are discussed further. Lastly, their major bioapplications are highlighted.