Injectable hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels with carbon dots and an iron complex for embolization

dynamic light scattering, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy, confirming its nanoscale structure and compositional integrity. The APIO/Fe hydrogel demonstrated shear-thinning and self-healing properties, injectability, and mechanical recovery. The APIO/Fe complex and the hydrogel preserved CT and magnetic resonance imaging contrast capabilities compared with conventional contrast agents. They also catalyzed the Fenton reaction, initiated the formation of reactive oxygen species, and accelerated coagulation upon interaction with blood. In a three-dimensional vascular model, the APIO/Fe complex induced occlusion. This multifunctional platform integrates imaging visibility, oxidative therapy, and embolic function, thus providing a synergistic, minimally invasive approach for HCC treatment.