Fundamental insights into advancing the functionality and adaptability of biodegradable triazole-based ‘click’polymer libraries for diverse biomedical uses: current achievements, challenges, strategic directions, and novel practical approaches

Abstract

A series of new aliphatic AA-BB-type poly(ester ether amide)s (PEEAs) and poly(ester ether)s (PEEs) containing 1,2,3-triazole rings in the main chain were successfully obtained. The synthesis of the “click” polymers was performed via Cu(I)-catalyzed click step-growth polymerization (SGP) employing the efficient one pot/two-step synthetic approach that we had previously developed. The structure of the polymers was confirmed by FT-IR and NMR spectroscopy. The newly synthesized materials were extensively characterized, including assessments of their yield, solubility, film-forming properties, molecular weights, and molecular weight distribution. The obtained PEEAs and PEEs exhibited a quite satisfactory degree of polymerization, good film-forming properties, and favorable solubility behavior. The reported materials enlarge a library of available degradable triazole click polymers promising for a wide range of biomedical applications. The results validate once again the applicability of our innovative synthetic strategy for designing various classes of triazole-backbone degradable click polymers. Degradable triazole-based “click” polymers have emerged as a versatile and indispensable class of materials in biomedical innovation. Their unique properties, such as biocompatibility, tunable degradability, and ease of synthesis via “click” chemistry, have made them highly attractive for diverse applications, ranging from drug delivery systems to tissue engineering scaffolds. Expanding their scope and functionality remains a pivotal goal to meet the growing demands of advanced biomedical technologies. This article explores the advances, challenges, opportunities, future development strategies, and emerging practical implementation approaches for these polymers. The field of degradable triazole "click" polymers is poised for significant advancements in biomedical innovation. As the library of these polymers expands, it is important to balance the opportunities they offer with the challenges they present. By focusing on controlled synthesis, enhanced biological interactions, and scalable production, researchers and clinicians can harness the full potential of these materials. With continued development and collaboration, these polymers could become a cornerstone of next-generation biomedical therapies, leading to improved patient outcomes and more sustainable healthcare solutions. The study successfully demonstrates the synthesis of new poly(ester ether amide)s (PEEAs) and poly(ester ether)s (PEEs) incorporating 1,4-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazole rings in their backbone. The materials exhibit promising properties that make them potential candidates for a variety of biomedical applications, particularly in controlled drug delivery and tissue engineering. However, further research is needed to fully explore their clinical potential, optimize their properties, and address challenges related to their large-scale production and biological interactions.