A Short Overview of the Formulation of Cellulose-Based Hydrogels and Their Biomedical Applications †

Abstract

Cellulose, the most abundant natural biopolymer, has garnered significant attention for hydrogel development due to its exceptional properties, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, renewability, and mechanical strength. These attributes make cellulose an environmentally friendly and safe material for biomedical engineering applications. Crosslinking is a critical step in hydrogel synthesis, enabling the formation of a 3D network that enhances structural and functional properties. Various crosslinking methods have been employed to tailor cellulose-based hydrogels for specific applications, such as tissue engineering, wound healing, drug delivery, and 3D bioprinting. This paper provides a concise overview of the formulation techniques and biomedical applications of cellulose-based hydrogels. By synthesizing recent advances from the literature, we highlight the unique advantages of cellulose-based hydrogels over other biomaterials and discuss their potential as a sustainable and innovative platform in biomedical engineering.