Supramolecular engineering of hydrogels for drug delivery

Abstract Supramolecular binding motifs are increasingly employed in the design of biomaterials. The ability to rationally engineer specific yet reversible associations into polymer networks with supramolecular chemistry enables injectable or sprayable hydrogels that can be applied via minimally invasive administration. In this review, we highlight two main areas where supramolecular binding motifs are being used in the design of drug delivery systems: engineering network mechanics and tailoring drug–material affinity. Throughout, we highlight many of the established and emerging chemistries or binding motifs that are useful for the design of supramolecular hydrogels for drug delivery applications.