Recent advances on MXene-based hydrogels for antibacterial and drug delivery applications

MXene is a flexible, compositionally diversified, and multilayered two-dimensional (2D) compound formed from surface-modified carbide. MXene is termed Mn+1XnTx, where M is an early transition metal, n = 1–3, and X is typically a layer of carbon or nitrogen and surface functional groups (Tx/Tz). MXenes offer a unique set of features, including high electrical conductivity, mechanical stability, magnetic properties, and remarkable visual capabilities. These materials have large surface areas, hydrophilicity, and other suitable physicochemical characteristics for drug delivery applications (e.g., high drug-loading capacity). Despite the versatile biomedical applications of MXenes and their composites, they have been exploited in two families of biomedical engineering materials: titanium carbide and tantalum carbide. By incorporating MXenes into hydrogel matrices, improved drug loading capacity, sustained release profiles, and enhanced stability is achievable; this integration helps the controlled release of MXene nanoparticles to afford sustained antibacterial activity, thus preventing bacterial colonization and biofilm formation. Overall, MXene-based hydrogels offer a promising platform for drug delivery and antibacterial applications. Their unique physicochemical properties and tunable surface chemistry allow for enhanced drug loading, controlled release, and targeted delivery. Notably, the inherent antimicrobial activity of MXenes enables effective antibacterial therapy. Herein, recent advances pertaining to the antibacterial and drug delivery applications of MXene-based hydrogels are deliberated, focusing on crucial challenges and future perspectives. Their properties, synthesis techniques, and cytotoxicity are highlighted. The recent advances in improving 2D MXenes in the case of biodegradability and biocompatibility are also covered.