fullerene hydrogel

Fullerene hydrogel refers to a class of hydrogels in which fullerenes or their derivatives (such as fullerenol) are incorporated into a polymeric matrix (e.g., alginate, peptides, cellulose) to create an injectable or implantable biomaterial with unique biomedical properties. These hydrogels leverage the potent antioxidant activity of fullerenes—molecules composed entirely of carbon in a cage-like structure—to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby protecting cells from oxidative stress. In preclinical studies, such as the fullerenol/alginate formulation, these hydrogels have been shown to support stem cell survival and differentiation under oxidative conditions and promote tissue repair after myocardial infarction by reducing ROS levels and enhancing angiogenesis[1][3]. Other formulations include peptide–fullerene supramolecular hydrogels for photodynamic antibacterial therapy against multiantibiotic-resistant bacteria[6], and fullerene-functionalized cellulosic hydrogels with enhanced antibacterial activity[2]. The mechanism of action is primarily based on the antioxidant properties of the incorporated fullerene molecules; some variants also act as photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy. Fullerene hydrogels are being explored mainly as advanced drug delivery vehicles or therapeutic scaffolds in regenerative medicine and infection control.

Other names

fullerenol/alginate hydrogelpeptide–fullerene supramolecular hydrogelfullerene-functionalized cellulosic hydrogel