Review on biomaterial applications of photoresponsive based chromophore Hydrogels: Recent developments and future perspectives

[Display omitted] •Green light irradiation of methoxy-azobenzene based supramolecular hydrogel.•Fluorescent sensors for coumarin-chitosan hydrogel.•Tissue engineering application of polyamidoamine dendrimer hydrogels.•H2O2 Detection of fluorescein derivative immobilized optical hydrogels.•Photoconductive of oligophenylvinylene-perylene bisimide hydrogels.•Biomedical engineering application of naphthalenediimide-pyrene based hydrogelators. Hydrogel is a soft material with a three-dimensional network building broadly used in different fields due to its excellent biodegradability, biocompatibility, and modifiability. A photosensitive hydrogel is also a perfect option for usage in industries like biological materials, medication transporters, and sensors because of its flexibility and ease of regulation of stimulating elements. The inherent flexibility and ease of regulation of stimulating elements contribute to the appeal of these hydrogels in numerous applications. This review thoroughly examines the structure, mechanisms, design principles, and bioapplications of photosensitive chromophore hydrogels developed in recent years. In conclusion, the synthesis of photosensitive hydrogels presents a promising avenue for innovation, offering tailored solutions for a range of applications and setting the stage for exciting developments in the future. Finally, we present their potential for further development and highlight anticipated future challenges.