MXene-Loaded Hydrogels for Tissue Regeneration: A Review of Recent Advances and Future Perspectives

Abstract

MXene-loaded hydrogels represent a potential category of multifunctional biomaterials that combine the remarkable physicochemical features of MXenes with the adjustable structure and biocompatibility of hydrogels for tissue regeneration purposes. Due to their distinctive two-dimensional structure, elevated surface area, electrical conductivity, and plentiful surface functional groups, MXenes promote improved cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation while enhancing bioelectronic communication inside tissues. When included into hydrogel matrices, these nanoparticles enhance mechanical strength, electrical responsiveness, and antibacterial properties, therefore tackling significant issues in tissue engineering scaffolds.Recent advancements have shown their efficacy in enhancing wound healing, regenerating bone and cartilage and drug delivery mechanisms. Notwithstanding these considerable accomplishments, obstacles persist regarding long-term biosafety, degradation management, and the scalable production of MXene-based composites. This review comprehensively examines recent advancements in the synthesis, functionalization, and biomedical applications of MXene-loaded hydrogels, critically assesses their existing limitations, and delineates future research directions for their safe and effective clinical implementation in regenerative medicine.