Q. With reference to the recently developed injectable hydrogel for localized cancer treatment, consider the following statements:
1.They can be administered orally.
2.They enhance drug delivery in cancer treatment by extending drug retention time at the tumour site.
3. They possess greater biocompatible properties.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Explanations –
Statement 1 is incorrect. Injectable hydrogels are specifically designed for localized delivery at the tumour site through injection, not oral administration. They are intended to remain at the site of injection to deliver drugs in a controlled manner.
Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Injectable hydrogels act as a reservoir for drugs, ensuring sustained and controlled release at the tumour site, which prolongs drug retention and minimizes systemic toxicity. Hydrogels are designed to be biocompatible, non-toxic, and biodegradable, making them suitable for biomedical applications such as cancer therapy.
Source: The Hindu

