Bioinspired Reinforcement of Magnetic Colloidal Gel for the Embolization of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Transarterial embolization is a vital treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma. However, clinically used embolic agents are prone to rapid recanalization and nonspecific embolization. Although colloidal gels composed of nanoparticles are acknowledged for their considerable potential as vascular embolic agent, these gels encounter challenges of long-term and stable embolization in arteries with high blood flow velocities due to their weak mechanical properties. To address the difficulties, the in situ reinforcement strategy was developed to enhance the embolic pressure of colloidal gels. Inspired by plant roots secreting organic acids to dissolve calcium carbonate and absorbing calcium ions, ultimately strengthening the cell wall, alginate and calcium carbonate were incorporated into the colloidal gel composed of gelatin and iron oxide nanoparticles to create a bioinspired reinforced hydrogel. Calcium carbonate nanoparticles dissociated to release Ca2+, which cross-linked with alginate, thereby enhancing the mechanical properties of the gel. The bioinspired reinforced hydrogel exhibited smooth extrudability and stable embolization. Additionally, the introduction of iron oxide endowed the hydrogel with magnetic field responsiveness, enabling tumor hyperthermia. Given the unique advantages, the bioinspired reinforced hydrogel holds a promise as novel embolic agents for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment.