Recent Advances in Embolic Agents for Transarterial Chemoembolization of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Liver cancer remains a highly prevalent malignancy worldwide, with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) serving as a standard intervention for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Embolic agents play a critical role in TACE by inducing ischemic necrosis through vascular occlusion and facilitating localized chemotherapy release. However, conventional embolic materials face limitations such as poor radiopacity, inadequate drug-loading capacity, and suboptimal distribution. Recent advances in functional biomaterials have led to the development of innovative embolic agents, particularly smart hydrogels, which exhibit tunable physicochemical properties, responsiveness to microenvironmental stimuli (e.g., temperature, pH), and enhanced imaging capabilities. This review systematically summarizes the evolution of embolic agents, from traditional options to modern multifunctional hydrogels, and highlights their applications in improving the efficacy of TACE. We also discuss current challenges and future directions for the clinical translation of advanced embolic systems, aiming to inspire further research toward precision embolotherapy.