Photoresponsive Hydrogel System for Ultraviolet (UV) Controlled Drug Delivery: A Mini Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15282/Keywords:
UV Light Responsive Hydrogel, Photoresponsive Hydrogel , Characterization Techniques , Stimuli/StimulusAbstract
This review offers an in-depth examination of the latest developments in UV light-responsive hydrogels, emphasizing their role as advanced platforms for drug delivery, especially considering wound care and topical treatments. The discussion explores how photochromic compounds such as azobenzene, spiropyran, and spirooxazine are incorporated into hydrogel structures. These integrations assist precise and controllable drug release when exposed to UV light. The mechanisms behind this process are analyzed through phenomena like photoisomerization-induced swelling, alterations in porosity, and reversible molecular conformations. The comparison between UV-responsive hydrogels and traditional counterparts emphasizes their superior ability to offer spatial and temporal control, targeted therapy, and minimized side effects. The review critically evaluates various characterization techniques—including swelling tests, FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, SEM, mechanical evaluations, and rheological assessments—to understand how these materials behave before and after UV exposure. Besides, the discussion addresses environmental sustainability, economic viability, and manufacturing scalability, acknowledging current challenges and proposing potential solutions for future innovation. Concluding with prospective research directions, the paper emphasizes advancements in dual-stimulus responsive hydrogels, alternatives responsive to visible or near-infrared light, and the development of intelligent wearable patches. Overall, UV-responsive hydrogels demonstrate major promise as the next generation of drug delivery systems, particularly in wound management, though concerns regarding safety, biodegradability, and commercial translation still need to be addressed.
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