Integrating computational models for stimuli-responsive hydrogel nano/micromotor and microrobots for smart and sustainable bioactuator devices

Recent advances in stimuli-responsive hydrogels have paved the way for innovative, eco-friendly bioactuator devices inspired by natural systems. By leveraging computational and predictive models, researchers can elucidate the intricate structure-property relationships governing these smart materials, enabling precise control over their size, shape, and functionality. This review explores the fundamental principles behind the design and operation of hydrogel-based nano/micromotors and microrobots, focusing on their responsiveness to various stimuli, such as pH, temperature, light, and biochemical signals, and their resulting dynamic behaviors. Additionally, we highlight their diverse biomedical applications, including targeted drug delivery, biosensing, and tissue engineering. The key focus of this review covers the emerging synthesis and functionalization strategies that enhance the performance and responsiveness of these materials. Unlike previous reviews, we provide a comprehensive analysis of recent developments in this field, emphasizing the role of computational modeling in optimizing material selection and uncovering mechanistic insights. These hydrogel-based systems hold immense potential for advancing the efficiency, functionality, and sustainability of bioactuators, opening new frontiers in biomedical research and applications. • Hydrogel robots with self-adaptability, intelligence, and precise control are introduced. • Uncovering predictive models for stimuli-responsive hydrogel nano/micromotors and microrobots. • The actuation mechanism for stimuli-responsive hydrogel nano/micromotor and microrobots is expanded. • The application scenarios of the biopolymer-based smart hydrogel actuators/robots are discussed.