Hydrogen Evolution and Dynamics in Hydrogel Electrochemical Cells for Ischemia-Reperfusion Therapy
Published in Nature Chemical Engineering, 2025
A portable hydrogel electrochemical cell addresses the limited spatial and temporal control of conventional hydrogen delivery. The hydrogel serves simultaneously as the electrolyte, reaction medium, and therapeutic delivery reservoir: it supports hydrogen evolution, traps the generated gas, and sustains diffusion to the tissue–device interface. This integrates generation, local storage, and release in one soft biointerface, with wireless electronics controlling hydrogen production.
The study examines how hydrogel composition affects reaction kinetics, bubble morphology, and gas storage. Protective effects were evaluated in cardiomyocytes and keratinocytes in vitro, ischemia–reperfusion hearts ex vivo, and skin pressure-ulcer models in vivo. These preclinical studies demonstrate the potential of hydrogel electrochemical cells for controlled hydrogen delivery.
Recommended citation: Wen Li, Jing Zhang, et al., B Tian. (2025). "Hydrogen Evolution and Dynamics in Hydrogel Electrochemical Cells for Ischemia-Reperfusion Therapy." Nature Chemical Engineering.
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