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Abstract not available

• Speaker: Mark Costantini (DAMTP)
• Friday 14 March 2025, 16:00-17:00
• Venue: MR19 (Potter Room, Pavilion B), CMS.
• Series: HEP phenomenology joint Cavendish-DAMTP seminar; organiser: Nico Gubernari.

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Do microbiomes of parasitic nematodes contribute to disease pathogenesis?

Abstract not available

• Speaker: Professor Mark Taylor, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine
• Wednesday 05 March 2025, 13:00-14:00
• Venue: Seminar Room, Tennis Court Road, Dept of Pathology..
• Series: Parasitology Seminars; organiser: Maria Duque-Correa, mad75.

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The miraculous metamorphosis of malaria parasites: how the malaria parasite adapts to the host erythrocyte (and the host itself)

Malaria parasites replicate inside erythrocytes of the host organism. Although this is a relatively safe haven from the host’s immune system, it exposes the parasite to potential removal of the infected erythrocyte in the spleen, where small, old and damaged erythrocytes are removed from the circulation. Late-stage parasites are large and ultimately take up ~75% of the cytosol of the erythrocyte and erythrocytes containing these large late-stage malaria parasites are rapidly removed from the blood circulation. In contrast, early-stage parasites are much smaller and erythrocytes containing these forms of the parasite are readily detected in the blood of an infected individual. Although the invasive merozoite form of the parasite is small and nearly spherical, inside the erythrocyte early-stage parasites assume very motile amoeboid shapes, with limbs that move, retract and extend again. Hence, the early-stage intracellular parasites have little resemblance to the invasive form of the parasite. However, how, when and why the parasite undergoes this shape change has been studied very little. To understand this remarkable transformation of merozoites to the intracellular amoeboid shape, we investigated the when, how and why of this process and discovered that it is rapid, likely very complex and involves the host’s spleen. Our results indicate that rather than passively settling into the host erythrocyte after invasion, the parasite undergoes a radical metamorphosis to increase its survival in the host.

• Speaker: Dr Christiaan van Ooij, Keele University
• Wednesday 26 February 2025, 16:00-17:00
• Venue: Seminar Room, Tennis Court Road, Dept of Pathology..
• Series: Parasitology Seminars; organiser: Ross Waller.

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Energy Environ. Sci., 2025, Accepted Manuscript
DOI: 10.1039/D5EE00202H, PaperXinze Cai, Wanlin Wu, Bingyao Zhang, Wenlong Cai, Canhui Lu, Rui Xiong, Jiangqi Zhao, Jiang Zhou
Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) are emerging as an up-and-coming energy storage technology for wearable electronics due to their intrinsic safety, cost-effectiveness, and biocompatibility. Nevertheless, the uncontrolled deposition of the Zn...
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Energy Environ. Sci., 2025, Accepted Manuscript
DOI: 10.1039/D5EE00350D, PaperSheng Fu, Nannan Sun, Hao Chen, You Li, Yunfei Li, Xiaotian Zhu, Bo Feng, Xuemin Guo, Canglang Yao, Wenxiao Zhang, Xiaodong Li, Junfeng Fang
Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) play the significant roles in the rapidly-progressed inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Additional metal oxide or molecular incorporations are widely adopted to ameliorate their incomplete and uneven...
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Energy Environ. Sci., 2025, Accepted Manuscript
DOI: 10.1039/D4EE05898D, Review ArticleBo Wang, Chengbing Wang, Yang Li, Jingjing Jin, Xuli Lin, Chenyi Shi
Solar interfacial evaporators (SIE) offer a promising solution for utilizing solar energy in seawater desalination, addressing the critical issue of freshwater scarcity. However, there are ongoing challenges in enhancing overall...
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Red, green, and blue (R/G/B) colored 2D perovskite nanocrystals synthesized via an ultrasonic spray method demonstrate outstanding photo-detection performance in 4-inch photodetector arrays with a 100% operational yield, enabled by a liquid-bridge-transport strategy. This scalable, self-aligned synthesis provides a practical pathway for high-performance, large-area perovskite optoelectronic devices and shows promising potential for broader applications in integrated optoelectronic systems.

Abstract

2D perovskite (PVSK) single crystals have received significant attention due to their unique optical and optoelectronic properties. However, current synthesis methods face limitations, particularly in large-area fabrication, which remain critical barriers to practical applications. In this study, the synthesis of red/green/purple-blue-colored 2D PVSK nanocrystals over a large area (4-inch wafer) and the fabrication of high-performance photodetector arrays are presented via a facile yet efficient spray-coating approach with a liquid-bridge transport effect. The photodetector array achieves 100% working yield, high photo-responsivity (1.5 × 106 A W−1) and specific-detectivity (1.1 × 1016 Jones) with competitive photomapping characteristics. An intelligent vision system for automatic shape recognition is further demonstrated with a recognition rate exceeding 90%. This study provides significant advances in the scalable synthesis of nanoscale 2D PVSK crystals, their integration into large-area optoelectronic devices, and their potential use in artificial-intelligence systems.

A geometric isomerization strategy is reported to modulate the electron and energy states of metal-free COF-based catalysts via introducing bithiophene units featuring diverse substitutions. The asymmetric 2,3-substitution COFs with enhanced dipole moment and non-uniform charge distribution show high electrocatalytic activity, with the pentacyclic-carbon (thiophene β-position) far from sulfur atoms emerging as active sites.

Abstract

Embedding isomer entities onto crystalline frameworks with precisely defined spatial distributions represents a promising approach to enhancing the efficiency of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in fuel cells. However, accurately constructing covalent organic frameworks (COFs) to regulate energy state effectively remains a significant challenge. Herein, an innovative geometric isomerization strategy aimed at minimizing the rotational barrier energy (ΔE), average local ionization energy (ALIE), and Gibbs free energy (ΔG) for ORR within COFs is proposed. Based on this strategy, isomeric Py-COF-αα with 2,2-substitution, Py-COF-ββ with 3,3-substitution, and Py-COF-αβ with 2,3-substitution on the mainchain frameworks have been obtained. The electronic states and intermediate adsorption capabilities are finely tuned through isomer modification, yielding a precisely controllable chemical activity. Notably, Py-COF-αβ with lower ΔE between thiophenes achieves remarkable performance, evidenced by a half-wave potential of 0.77 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), surpassing most reported metal-free electrocatalysts. Combined with theoretical prediction and in situ Raman spectra, it is revealed that the increased dipole moment and non-uniform charge distribution caused by isomer endows pentacyclic-carbon (thiophene β-position) far from sulfur atoms with efficient catalytic activity. This work has opened up a novel paradigm for the isomerization of COFs and underscores the pivotal role of charge regulation in facilitating efficient catalysis.

Interface design is a promising strategy to help TVNGs achieve goals ranging from simple performance improvements to ingenious construction of novel functionalities. Herein, the frontier advances on interface design for TVNGs are elaborately outlined for the first time, which details the tribovoltaic effect mechanisms, diverse interface strategies, and outlines existing challenges and future prospects.

Abstract

Tribovoltaic nanogenerator (TVNG), which manifests distinct advantages of direct-current output characteristics and remarkable energy utilization efficiency, is an emerging energy technology relying on the coupling of semiconductor and contact electrification. Dynamic semiconductor interface is the key to TVNGs, as its performance and functionality largely depend on the design and optimization of interface. Hence, with the booming development of TVNGs, it is of great significance to timely update the fundamental understanding of its interface design, which is currently lacking. In this review, the frontier advances on interface design for TVNGs are elaborately outlined for the first time. First, the underlying mechanisms of tribovoltaic effect at the interface are elaborated, as well as some governing equations and key interface design concepts. Subsequently, diverse strategies for advanced interface design are highlighted, including modulating interfacial charge dynamics, multi-energy coupling, reducing interface wear loss, and extending flexible/wearable application. At last, some assumptions about the future direction and prospects of advanced interface design in efficient, multifunctional TVNGs are presented.

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in the skin mucus of Andrias davidianus and its derived engineered microspheres have been shown to promote angiogenesis and modulate the inflammatory microenvironment by inducing the polarization of reparative macrophages, thus contributing to wound healing. This is an excellent paradigm for harnessing cross-species regenerative capabilities to address impaired wound repair, introducing a novel therapeutic strategy for refractory wounds.

Abstract

Harnessing cross-species regenerative cues to direct human regenerative potential is increasingly recognized as an excellent strategy in regenerative medicine, particularly for addressing the challenges of impaired wound healing in aging populations. The skin mucus of Andrias davidianus plays a critical role in self-protection and tissue repair, yet the fundamental regenerative factors and mechanisms involved remain elusive. Here, this work presents evidence that glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) derived from the skin secretion of Andrias davidianus (SAGs) serve as potent mediators of angiogenesis and inflammatory remodeling, facilitating efficient healing of diabetic wounds. Mechanistic studies reveal that SAGs promote macrophage polarization toward an anti-inflammatory and pro-regenerative phenotype (CD206+/Arg1+) via glucolipid metabolic reprogramming. This process suppresses excessive inflammation and enhances the expression of VEGF and IL-10 to create a facilitative microenvironment for tissue regeneration. Additionally, this work develops SAGs-GelMA composite microspheres that address multiple stages of wound healing, including rapid hemostasis, exudate control, and activation of endogenous regenerative processes. This engineered approach significantly improves the scarless healing of diabetic wounds by facilitating the recruitment and activation of reparative macrophages. The findings offer new insights into the regenerative mechanisms of Andrias davidianus and highlight the potential therapeutic application of SAGs in tissue repair.

Biomimicry offers an exceptional opportunity to design materials with advanced properties. This review summarizes the latest findings for developing sustainable superhydrophobic–superoleophobic materials using biomimicry, their challenges, and future directions. For a more comprehensive approach in this research area, experimental methods for surface engineering are given in detail, along with computational modeling and artificial intelligence applications.

Abstract

Inspired by nature's ability to master materials for performance and sustainability, biomimicry has enabled the creation of bioinspired materials for structural color, superadhesion, hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity, among many others. This review summarizes the emerging trends in novel sustainable fluorocarbon-free bioinspired designs for creating superhydrophobic and superoleophobic surfaces. It discusses methods, challenges, and future directions, alongside the impact of computational modeling and artificial intelligence in accelerating the experimental development of more sustainable surface materials. While significant progress is made in superhydrophobic materials, sustainable superoleophobic surfaces remain a challenge. However, bioinspiration and experimental techniques supported by computational platforms are paving the way to new renewable and biodegradable repellent surfaces that meet environmental standards without sacrificing performance. Nevertheless, despite environmental concerns, and policies, several bioinspired designs still continue to apply fluorination and other environmentally harmful techniques to achieve the required standard of repellency. As discussed in this critical review, a new paradigm that integrates advanced materials characterization, nanotechnology, additive manufacturing, computational modeling, and artificial intelligence is coming, to generate bioinspired materials with tailored superhydrophobicity and superoleophobicity while adhering to environmental standards.

Electrocatalytic nitrate reduction (e-NO3RR) shows promise for NH3 synthesis but suffer from insufficient activity. One mechanism is proposed to integrate a proton donor for O-end e-NO3RR. Based on that, a model catalyst with Cu single atoms on La-based nanoparticles is designed, achieving exceptional efficiency and stability. This paves the way for innovative electrocatalyst design in NH3 production and beyond.

Abstract

Ammonia (NH3) is vital in global production and energy cycles. Electrocatalytic nitrate reduction (e-NO3RR) offers a promising route for nitrogen (N) conversion and NH3 synthesis, yet it faces challenges like competing reactions and low catalyst activity. This study proposes a synergistic mechanism incorporating a proton donor to mediate O-end e-NO3RR, addressing these limitations. A novel method combining ultraviolet radiation reduction, confined synthesis, and microwave treatment was developed to create a model catalyst embedding Cu single atoms on La-based nanoparticles (p-CNCu s La n -m). DFT analysis emphasizes the critical role of La-based clusters as proton donors in e-NO3RR, while in situ characterization reveals an O-end adsorption reduction mechanism. The catalyst achieves a remarkable Faraday efficiency (FENH3) of 97.7%, producing 10.6 mol gmetal −1 h−1 of NH3, surpassing most prior studies. In a flow cell, it demonstrated exceptional stability, with only a 9% decrease in current density after 111 hours and a NH3 production rate of 1.57 mgNH3/h/cm−2. The proton donor mechanism's effectiveness highlights its potential for advancing electrocatalyst design. Beyond NH3 production, the O-end mechanism opens avenues for exploring molecular-oriented coupling reactions in e-NO3RR, paving the way for innovative electrochemical synthesis applications.

Highly cycle-stable photo-assisted all-solid-state sodium-metal batteries are successfully designed and constructed based on computational screening of catalytic active fillers and mechanical reinforcement from natural lignocellulose fillers, combined with the coupling mechanism of light-driven and photoelectrochemical storage. These innovations enable the flexible photo-assisted pouch battery to achieve a high discharge capacity of 117 mAh g−1, while maintaining 89.1% capacity retention after 300 cycles at 1 C.

Abstract

The advancement of photo-assisted rechargeable sodium-metal batteries with high energy efficiency, lightweight structure, and simplified design is crucial for the growing demand in portable electronics. However, addressing the intrinsic safety concerns of liquid electrolytes and the sluggish reaction kinetics in existing photoelectrochemical storage cathodes (PSCs) remains a significant challenge. In this work, functionalized light-driven composite solid electrolyte (CSE) fillers are systematically screened, and optimized PSC materials are employed to construct advanced photo-assisted solid-state sodium-metal battery (PSSMB). To further enhance the mechanical properties and poly(ethylene oxide) compatibility of the CSE, natural lignocellulose is incorporated, enabling the fabrication of flexible PSSMBs. In situ tests and density functional theory calculations reveal that the light-driven electric field facilitated sodium salt dissociation, reduced interfacial resistance, and improved ionic conductivity (0.1 mS cm−1). Meanwhile, energy-level matching of the PSC maximized the utilization of photogenerated carriers, accelerating reaction kinetics and enhancing interface compatibility between the electrolyte and cathode. The resulting flexible pouch-type PSSMB demonstrates a remarkable discharge capacity of 117 mAh g−1 and outstanding long-term cycling stability, retaining 89.1% of its capacity and achieving an energy storage efficiency of 96.8% after 300 cycles at 1 C. This study highlights a versatile strategy for advancing safe, high-performance solid-state batteries.

An etchless bound-state-in-the-continuum polymer cavity is designed on a 2D InSe flake, achieving an impressive photoluminescence enhancement of 218 times. The exciton-exciton scattering in InSe is intensively amplified on cavity, which is unobservable off-cavity. Second harmonic generation in InSe can also be significantly enhanced by 404 times. The etchless cavity concept can be extended to other nanostructures beyond grating.

Abstract

Recently, fervent research interest is sparked to indium selenide (γ-InSe) due to its dazzling optical and electronic properties. The direct bandgap in the near-infrared (NIR) range ensures efficient carrier recombination in InSe, promoting impressive competency for lavish NIR applications. Nevertheless, the photoluminescence (PL) efficiency of InSe is significantly limited by out-of-plane (OP) excitons, adverse to practical devices. Herein, a facile and effective solution is proposed by introducing photonic bound-states-in-the-continuum (BIC) modes to enhance excitons in InSe through strengthened exciton-photon coupling. This cavity is constructed simply by patterning a polymer grating onto the InSe flake without an etching process, achieving an impressive PL enhancement of over 200 times. By adjusting the cavity resonance wavelength, it can selectively amplify the exciton emission or the exciton-exciton scattering process, which is not observable off-cavity at room temperature. Additionally, the second harmonic generation (SHG) process in InSe can also be largely enhanced by over 400 times on the cavity. Notably, the etchless cavity design can be further extended to other nanostructures beyond grating. This research presents a feasible and efficient approach to enhancing the optical performance of OP excitons, paving a prospective avenue for advanced linear and nonlinear photonic devices.

This review summarizes the recent advancements in self-powered artificial neuron devices (ANDs), with a particular emphasis on mechanical and optical energy sources, operational modes, fundamental mechanisms, device architectures, and application in all-in-one environmental perception systems. In addition, the challenges and perspectives in this field are discussed to inspire further development and facilitate future application.

Abstract

The increasing demand for energy supply in sensing units and the computational efficiency of computation units has prompted researchers to explore novel, integrated technology that offers high efficiency and low energy consumption. Self-powered sensing technology enables environmental perception without external energy sources, while neuromorphic computation provides energy-efficient and high-performance computing capabilities. The integration of self-powered sensing technology and neuromorphic computation presents a promising solution for an all-in-one system. This review examines recent developments and advancements in self-powered artificial neuron devices based on triboelectric, piezoelectric, and photoelectric effects, focusing on their structures, mechanisms, and functions. Furthermore, it compares the electrical characteristics of various types of self-powered artificial neuron devices and discusses effective methods for enhancing their performance. Additionally, this review provides a comprehensive summary of self-powered perception systems, encompassing tactile, visual, and auditory perception systems. Moreover, it elucidates recently integrated systems that combine perception, computing, and actuation units into all-in-one configurations, aspiring to realize closed-loop control. The seamless integration of self-powered sensing and neuromorphic computation holds significant potential for shaping a more intelligent future for humanity.

A mechanically compatible seal is proposed for preventing hydrogels from water loss and swelling. This seal is made of a carbon-based elastomer blended with oligomers for controlling modulus and with polar polymeric domains for forming coherent interfaces, resulting in orders of magnitude improvements in the longevity of hydrogels without sacrificing their softness and stretchability.

Abstract

Long-term operation of hydrogels relies on protective coatings to avoid water swelling or evaporation, but these protections often cause substantial decreases in overall softness and stretchability. Here, a mechanically compatible seal with a coherent interfacial design is developed to encapsulate hydrogels. This seal is made from polybutylene (PIB) and polypropylene-graft-maleic anhydride (PP-g-MAH) blended poly(styrene-isobutylene-styrene) (SIBS). The PIB oligomers soften the SIBS networks, while the MAH groups facilitate covalent bonding between the SIBS and hydrogel. The sealed hydrogel exhibits an elastic modulus of 24 kPa and an elongation at a break of >1000%, both comparable to those of the pristine hydrogel. The adhesion energy between the seal and hydrogel reached >140 J m−2 and can be further increased to >400 J m−2 by a thermal treatment. This tough interface, together with the intrinsically low water vapor transmission rate of SIBS, allows the sealed hydrogel to maintain its modulus and stretchability after 10 days of drying in air. The sealed hydrogel is chemically and mechanically stable under harsh conditions, including acidic/alkaline/salty solutions, high temperatures, and cyclic mechanical deformation. This strategy applies to various hydrogels with diverse compositions and structures, leading to orders of magnitude improvements in the longevity of hydrogel-based electronic devices.

Spin-dependent optical emission is observed in hexagonal boron nitride across a wide band of wavelengths from the violet to the near-infrared, and attributed to spin defect pairs. These broadband spin pairs are found to exist naturally in a variety of samples from bulk crystals to powders to epitaxial films, and can be coherently controlled across the entire wavelength range.

Abstract

Optically addressable solid-state spins are an important platform for practical quantum technologies. Van der Waals material hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) is a promising host as it contains a wide variety of optical emitters, but thus far observations of addressable spins have been sparse, and most of them lacked a demonstration of coherent spin control. Here, robust optical readout of spin pairs in hBN is demonstrated with emission wavelengths spanning from violet to the near-infrared. It is found that these broadband spin pairs exist naturally in a variety of hBN samples from bulk crystals to powders to epitaxial films, and can be coherently controlled across the entire wavelength range. Furthermore, the optimal wavelengths are identified for independent readout of spin pairs and boron vacancy spin defects co-existing in the same sample. These results establish the ubiquity of the optically addressable spin pair system in hBN across a broad parameter space, making it a versatile playground for spin-based quantum technologies.

A novel robotic system that comprises a microrobot couple, characterizing cooperative interactions, non-contact manipulation, and high cargo transport velocity is introduced. This microrobot couple can switch between capture and release states, facilitating effective cooperation. Using these capabilities, targeted drug delivery in a stomach model is conducted and performed the removal of uterine fibroids in a uterine model.

Abstract

Magnetic interfacial microrobots are increasingly recognized as a promising approach for potential biomedical applications ranging from electronic functionalization to minimally invasive surgery and targeted drug delivery. Nevertheless, existing research faces challenges, including less cooperative interactions, contact-based cargo manipulation, and slow transport velocity. Here, the cooperative magnetic interfacial microrobot couple (CMIMC) is proposed to address the above challenges. The CMIMC can be maneuvered by a single magnet and readily switched between capture and release states. By leveraging cooperative interactions and meticulous engineering of capillary forces through shape design and surface treatment, the CMIMC demonstrates the ability to perform non-contact cargo manipulation. Using the synergy of preferred magnetization directions and magnetic field distribution, along with optimization of the resistance-reducing shape, the CMIMC significantly enhances the cargo transport velocity, reaching 12.2 body length per second. The studies demonstrate various biomedical applications like targeted drug delivery and myomectomy, paving the way for the broad implementation of interfacial microrobots in biomedical fields.

Dry battery electrode (DBE) technology simplifies electrode production but relies on PTFE, which faces regulatory and performance challenges. The study introduces a “bollard hitch” dual-binder system using poly(acrylic acid)-grafted sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (PC) and minimal PTFE, reducing PTFE use by over 70%. This innovation enhances conductivity, flexibility, and mass loading, enabling sustainable, high-performance battery production.

Abstract

The dry battery electrode (DBE) process offers significant advantages over conventional wet-coating methods for electrode fabrication. Unlike traditional processes that rely on toxic solvents such as N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), the DBE technique uses solvent-free methods, reducing environmental impact and production costs while enhancing compatibility and performance. However, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), the only binder currently used for large-scale DBE fabrication (binder fibrillation), faces potential regulatory restrictions under Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) guidelines and limits Li-ion conductivity, elastomeric properties, and particle adhesion. This study explores a novel dual-binder system, termed the “bollard hitch” model, designed to overcome these limitations as the first PTFE-less binder for binder fibrillation. Poly(acrylic acid)-grafted sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (PC) acts as the “bollard,” strongly attaching to the PTFE “anchor.” This binder system reduces PTFE usage by over 70% and enables the fabrication of high-mass loading cathodes (up to 90 mg cm− 2, 15.6 mAh cm− 2) with superior performance. It enhances ionic conductivity and mechanical strength, making it suitable for high-voltage applications and offering great potential to revolutionize the manufacturing of high-performance, durable energy storage systems.

A dual-gradient silk-based hydrogel is developed via an electric-field-driven method to enhance osteochondral regeneration. By integrating biomechanical and biochemical gradients, the hydrogel mimics native tissue architecture, directing site-specific cell differentiation. Encapsulated TGF-β1 nanocapsules ensure sustained release, promoting cartilage formation and subchondral bone remodeling, demonstrating its potential for regenerative medicine and targeted therapies.

Abstract

Contemporary clinical interventions for cartilage injuries focus on symptom management through pharmaceuticals and surgical procedures. Recent research has aimed at developing innovative scaffolds with biochemical elements, yet challenges like inadequate targeted delivery and reduced load-bearing capacity hinder their adoption. Inspired by the spatial gradients of biophysical and biochemical cues in native osteochondral tissues, a silk-based hydrogel that facilitates spontaneous dual-gradient formation, including mechanical gradients and growth factor gradients, for tissue regeneration, is presented. Driven by an electrical field, the hydrogel transitions from stiff to soft along the anode-to-cathode direction, mimicking the anisotropic structure of natural tissues. Simultaneously, incorporated growth factors encapsulated by charged monomers migrate to the cathode region, creating another parallel gradient that enables their sustained release. This design maintains bioactivity and enhances programmable growth factor concentration in the defect environment. In a rabbit model with full-thickness osteochondral defects, the dual-gradient hydrogel demonstrates significant potential for promoting osteochondral regeneration, offering a promising tool for clinical translation.