Injectable Janus hydrogel supports endoscopic fistula repair in animal models
Published in Biology, Journals, Tools.
Published October 30, 2026.
Researchers have developed an injectable hydrogel intended to seal gastrointestinal fistulas through endoscopic delivery. The Nature Biomedical Engineering study reports testing in rats and miniature pigs.
The material combines a temperature-responsive polymer, PNIPAM, with gallium ions. Inspired by slug adhesive chemistry, it forms a gel with asymmetric, or Janus-type, adhesion: attachment to the repair site while limiting unwanted adhesion to surrounding tissues.
The authors report water and acid resistance, active contraction and antibacterial properties under experimental conditions. These features aim to address the difficult environment of gastrointestinal repair, where a sealant must remain effective on wet tissue.
Animal experiments support further investigation, but the study does not establish safety, lasting effectiveness or superiority to existing treatments in human patients. Endoscopic delivery is minimally invasive and still requires a medical procedure. Broader clinical validation would be needed before the material could become a treatment option.