Constructing multifunctional biointerfaces: Polyoxometalate-based hydrogels—design, functionalization, and translational challenges

Polyoxometalate (POM)-based hydrogels are emerging organic-inorganic hybrid materials that combine the biological functions of POMs with the biocompatibility and tunable mechanical properties of polymer networks. This review summarizes recent advances in their composition design, network engineering, and biomedical applications. Particular emphasis is placed on four representative applications, including wound healing, antimicrobial therapy, localized cancer treatment, and bioelectronics, highlighting the catalytic, redox, photothermal, and electrochemical properties of POMs. The major challenges for clinical translation are also discussed, including the hydrolytic stability of POMs under physiological conditions, the biological contributions of degradation products, scalable manufacturing, and regulatory considerations. Future research should shift from empirical exploration toward mechanism-guided material design. With continued advances in interdisciplinary technologies, POM-based hydrogels are expected to evolve into versatile platforms for precision biomedical applications.