Table 1 Advantages and disadvantages of hydrogels based on their source
Hydrogel type | Advantages | Disadvantages | Refs. |
|---|---|---|---|
Natural hydrogels | Bioactive and friendly microenvironments for encapsulated cells in in vivo and in vitro conditions Several anchor spots and binding sites can promote cell attachment, morphological adaptation, and cytoskeletal organization Lack of excessive immune system responses because of their natural sources Induction of survival, migration, and differentiation of cells Appropriate ECM modeling Induction of several signaling pathways Angiogenesis/Vascularization | Poor physical characteristics and mechanical stability Difficult handleability and manipulation High-priced and time-consuming synthesis and sterilization protocols Rapid degradability Non-functional fibrosis formation | |
Synthetic Hydrogels | Economical and low-cost synthesis protocols Relatively rapid and easy synthesis protocols Appropriate for large-scale utilization High mechanical characteristics, Suitable handleability, and tunability Appropriate for advanced therapeutic applications | Lack of appropriate adhesion sites and bioactive molecules leading to the interposition of the regeneration process Reduction of cellular functionality Possibility of foreign body responses due to their oil-based sources or toxic secondly substance | |
Hybrid Hydrogels | Diversity in starting materials and components Extensive usage in regeneration applications Advantages depend on the material combination | High-priced and time-consuming synthesis protocols Disadvantages depend on the material combination |