Nanoarchitectonics in colloidal hydrogels: Design and applications in the environmental and biomedical fields

Abstract

The concept of nanoarchitectonics, derived from the science of nanoarchitecture, has driven the development of advanced colloidal hydrogels with enhanced functionalities for a wide range of applications. This review explores technological perspectives of nanoarchitectonics, especially in regard to colloidal hydrogels. Nanoarchitectonics applied to colloidal hydrogels allows nanoscale control over the structure and functionality of hydrogels to impart dynamic properties such as stimuli-responsiveness, controlled release, and enhanced mechanical strength. Furthermore, the integration with nanoparticles and polymers permits the synthesis of multifunctional nanogel platforms through chemical or physical cross-linking of nanoparticles, polymers, and small molecules. Their synergistic properties are largely controlled by the combined effects of the properties of nanoparticles, such as composition, size, shape, architecture, bonding mechanism, and molecular cross-linkers. Nanoarchitectonics-driven colloidal hydrogels are demonstrated to have great potential in environmental remediation and biomedical applications (e.g., drug delivery, wound dressings, and theragnostics). Nonetheless, challenges related to scalability, biocompatibility, and long-term stability need to be addressed to broaden their applicability. This review highlights the growing impact of nanoarchitectonics in colloidal hydrogels to offer innovative solutions for pressing global challenges in healthcare and environmental sustainability.