Stimuli-responsive hydrogels for radiation-induced skin injury: from passive barriers to autonomous drug delivery systems

The document discusses the development of stimuli-responsive hydrogels for treating radiation-induced skin injury (RISI), which affects over 95% of radiotherapy patients. These hydrogels have evolved from passive barriers to advanced systems capable of autonomous drug delivery, responding to specific stimuli like pH and reactive oxygen species (ROS) to release therapeutic agents. The review categorizes hydrogels into three generations, highlighting the need for precision drug delivery systems that adapt to the dynamic RISI microenvironment. Despite promising advancements, challenges in clinical translation, such as regulatory complexity and manufacturing scalability, remain. The integration of AI, 3D bioprinting, and personalized medicine is expected to transform RISI management, improving patient outcomes and cancer treatment effectiveness.