Chemistry Reference
In-Depth Information
bearing a nucleophilic reactive site. The hydrogels are sensitive to aldehydes
that are biomarkers of certain diseases. Moreover, the response rate of
hydrogels toward aldehydes is found to be dependent on the chemical struc-
tures of aldehydes. The authors successfully demonstrated the application of
such hydrogels for the controlled release of model drugs entrapped within the
hydrogel network.
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3.5 Conclusion and Perspectives
In summary, molecular gels that can be addressed by chemical and physical
stimuli have experienced rapid development in recent years. These responsive
gels as intelligent materials have shown potential applications in a number of
areas. Therefore, further expansion of this fascinating area can be imagined and
the following issues deserve more attention: 1) it is still challenging to design
LMWGs leading to stimuli-responsive gels, since the incorporation of func-
tional groups into LMWGs may perturb the self-assembly processes in a de-
structive way. Additional studies will be required, especially the detailed
mechanism of the gel formation. These studies may enable the rational design
of LWMGs; 2) molecular gels responsive to other physical stimuli such as
magnetic fields and X-ray radiation are unexplored. These investigations will
enrich the scope of molecular gels and provide new application opportunities.
Further studies in this attractive area need the endeavors of scientists from
different areas including organic chemistry, physical chemistry, nanoscience
and materials science. Apart from the rational design of LMWGs, the scientists
should focus on how to develop the practical applications of these responsive
materials. In this aspect, issues such as the stability of the supramolecular gels
in a prolonged use or enhancement of the mechanical strength of the systems,
still need to be solved.
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