A Promising Application of Injectable Hydrogels in Nerve Repair and Regeneration for Ischemic Stroke

Abstract

Ischemic stroke, a condition that often leads to severe nerve damage, induces complex pathological and physiological changes in nerve tissue. The mature central nervous system (CNS) lacks intrinsic regenerative capacity, resulting in a poor prognosis and long-term neurological impairments. There is no available therapy that can fully restore CNS functionality. However, the utilization of injectable hydrogels has emerged as a promising strategy for nerve repair and regeneration. Injectable hydrogels possess exceptional properties, such as biocompatibility, tunable mechanical properties, and the ability to provide a supportive environment for cell growth and tissue regeneration. Recently, various hydrogel-based tissue engineering approaches, including cell encapsulation, controlled release of therapeutic factors, and incorporation of bioactive molecules, have demonstrated great potential in the treatment of CNS injuries caused by ischemic stroke. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the application and development of injectable hydrogels for the treatment of ischemic stroke-induced CNS injuries, shedding light on their therapeutic prospects, challenges, recent advancements, and future directions. Additionally, it will discuss the underlying mechanisms involved in hydrogel-mediated nerve repair and regeneration, as well as the need for further preclinical and clinical studies to validate their efficacy and safety.