Emerging Natural-Polymer-Based Materials for Biomedical Applications

Dear Colleagues,

Natural polymers are rapidly emerging as key players in the development of next-generation biomedical systems. Proteins and polysaccharides, including collagen, gelatin, silk, chitin, chitosan, alginate, cellulose and hyaluronic acid, possess inherent biocompatibility, biodegradability and structural versatility that make them well-suited for medical use. These polymers can be fabricated into hydrogels, films, fibers, micro- and nanoparticles, three-dimensional scaffolds and microneedle patches, providing a wide range of material architectures with tunable physical and chemical properties that can be tailored for drug delivery, wound healing, tissue engineering and other biomedical applications.

Despite substantial progress in this field, further innovation is needed to expand the functionality and translational potential of natural-polymer-based materials. Key challenges include limited mechanical strength, variable stability, and the need for improved control over drug release and material architecture. Advances in functionalization with bioactive compounds, stimuli-responsive designs and emerging fabrication approaches, including micromolding and 3D bioprinting, are helping to overcome these barriers, opening new avenues for their biomedical use.

This Special Issue aims to highlight recent advances and emerging trends in natural-polymer-based materials for biomedical applications. We invite authors to submit original research articles and reviews addressing innovative fabrication strategies, functional modifications, biological performance, bio-inspiration and novel therapeutic uses of natural-polymer systems. We hope this Special Issue will foster new collaborations and drive progress in natural-polymer-based materials for biomedical applications.

Dr. Ana Cristina Quintans da Silva
Dr. Susana C. M. Fernandes
Guest Editors

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