Due to their unique structures and properties, three-dimensional hydrogels and nanostructured particles have been widely studied and shown a very high potential for medical, therapeutic and diagnostic applications. However, hydrogels and nanoparticulate systems have respective disadvantages that limit their widespread applications. Recently, the incorporation of nanostructured fillers into hydrogels has been developed as an innovative means for the creation of novel materials with diverse functionality in order to meet new challenges. In this review, the fundamentals of hydrogels and nanoparticles (NPs) were briefly discussed, and then we comprehensively summarized recent advances in the design, synthesis, functionalization and application of nanocomposite hydrogels with enhanced mechanical, biological and physicochemical properties. Moreover, the current challenges and future opportunities for the use of these promising materials in the biomedical sector, especially the nanocomposite hydrogels produced from hydrogels and polymeric NPs, are discussed.

Delayed wound healing has a profound impact on patients, healthcare, and society. Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) gel, as a preparation for regenerative medicine, has proven to be of clinical value in various wound treatments. Nevertheless, its weak mechanical properties and consequent burst release effect have restricted its application and efficacy. Here, an engineered PRP dual‐network hydrogel (named DN gel) based on sodium alginate is constructed through a simple “one‐step” activation process. Its improved gelling property and sustained release of growth factors may be beneficial for clinical use. Evaluations in rats indicate that DN gel promote wound healing in terms of rapid re‐epithelialization, up‐regulated growth factor levels and early transitions in the wound healing and angiogenesis stages. As a proof of concept, DN gel also exhibits superior healing efficiency in a porcine wound model. These results demonstrate the great potential of transforming this hydrogel into the next generation of PRP‐based bioactive wound dressing.

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