Mechanical properties of biopolymer gels: a review

Abstract Biopolymer hydrogels are highly promising for biomedical applications due to their biocompatibility and resemblance to biological tissues. Their mechanical behavior plays a pivotal role in tailoring properties for specific applications, including organoid culture, tissue engineering and drug or cell delivery. Recent advancements focus on modulating these properties through strategies such as blending polymer components and optimizing crosslinking techniques. This review highlights the mechanical characteristics of various biopolymer gels, including protein‐based, polysaccharide‐based, DNA‐based and hybrid gels. It also explores their applications in biomedicine, emphasizing their potential to address challenges in regenerative medicine and drug delivery. Understanding and advancing the mechanical properties of these gels provide critical insights into their functionality and versatility across diverse biomedical fields. By focusing on the interplay between mechanical behavior and biological performance, this work aims to inspire further innovations, paving the way for enhanced biomaterial design tailored to clinical and therapeutic needs. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.