Hydrogel Nanocomposite Systems: Characterization and Application in Drug-Delivery Systems

The field of controlled drug delivery continues to be one of the key areas of research in pharmaceutics and medicine. In these studies, hydrogel nanocomposite systems (NC-HYGs) have been extensively investigated because of their unique and tailorable properties. In fact, NC-HYGs mimic the native tissue microenvironment through their porous and hydrated molecular structure. Moreover, new reinforced polymeric hydrogels incorporating nanoparticles within the hydrogel network are being produced with the aim to improve the mechanical properties of the hydrogel and provide superior functionality, such as controlled release. This chapter covers the most recent developments in the field of nanocomposite hydrogels with emphasis on biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. In particular, we will discuss definitions, synthesis, characterization, and applications of hydrogel nanocomposites as drug-delivery systems. Moreover, future directions in designing more advanced nanocomposite hydrogels for biomedical and biotechnological applications will be provided.