Advances in Electrospun Thermo-Sensitive Hydrogels Nanofibrous Materials for Biomedical Applications

Abstract

With the rapid development of nanotechnology, stimulus-responsive nanofibers have in recent years, aroused the interest of many researchers. Due to their biocompatibility, favorable safety, and easy degradability, thermo-sensitive hydrogels, which are responsive to temperature change, have become increasingly attractive in the biomedicine field. Electrospinning is a unique fibrous manufacturing process in which a polymer solution is spun under a strong electric field to form into nanofibers. The porous structure and large surface area of electrospun nanofibers contribute significantly to the application of thermo-sensitive hydrogels in drug release systems, wound dressing materials, and biosensors. In the first part of this study, the mechanism of temperature sensitivity is detailed. Then the classification and preparation of electrospun thermo-sensitive hydrogels nanofibers are illustrated, followed by an introduction of their current applications in biomedical science. Finally, the current limitations and promise of electrospun thermo-sensitive hydrogels nanofibrous materials are presented.