Advanced Hydrogels for Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Engineering (2nd Edition)

A special issue of Gels (ISSN 2310-2861). This special issue belongs to the section "Gel Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 May 2024) | Viewed by 24755

Special Issue Editors

Department of internal medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
Interests: 3D bioprinting; hydrogels; tissue engineering; regenerative medicine; nanomedicine; drug conjugate; radiopharmaceuticals
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, China
Interests: regenerative medicine; wound healing; bone regeneration; nanofiber; biofabrication
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Department of internal medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
Interests: hydrogels; regenerative medicine; polymer chemistry; exosomes; cryopreservation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (TERM) is a rapidly developing field aiming to fully repair or regenerate damaged tissues/organs and restore their functions by combining advancements and experiences from both engineering and medicine. Hydrogels, three-dimensional water-swollen materials, have exhibited versatile features for TERM applications. In addition to common hydrogels being employed as biocompatible and minimally invasive scaffolds for loading drugs or cells, more advanced hydrogels presenting multifunctional properties play more important roles in improving treatment outcomes in TERM.

These advanced hydrogel properties include, but are not limited to, self-healing, environmental stimuli responsiveness, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, conductivity, etc. For example, self-healing hydrogels are promising candidates for bone and cartilage tissue engineering, as their self-healing characteristics can help them better deal with load-bearing conditions in native bone and cartilage sites. Additionally, the application of anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory hydrogels can significantly accelerate wound healing by modulating the microenvironments in chronic wounds. On the other hand, hydrogels are also an essential component of bioinks in 3D bioprinting due to being structurally similar to the extracellular matrix of human tissues. Through the adjustment of hydrogel components and mechanical properties, 3D bio-printed tissues/organs can better mimic native tissue structures and support cellular growth, differentiation, and function, thereby enhancing TERM efficacy. The purpose of this Special Issue is to summarize the progress achieved regarding advanced hydrogels within the TERM area, and encourage the discovery of new advanced hydrogels for better tissue/organ regeneration.

Dr. Wen Shi
Prof. Dr. Shixuan Chen
Dr. Bo Liu
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • hydrogels
  • tissue engineering
  • regenerative medicine
  • 3D bioprinting
  • multifunctional
  • disease models
  • scaffolds
  • stem cells
  • extracellular matrix

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Published Papers (11 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 3707 KiB  
Article
Facile Preparation of Multifunctional Hydrogels with Sustained Resveratrol Release Ability for Bone Tissue Regeneration
by Wenhai Zhang, Li Zheng, Yi Yan and Wen Shi
Gels 2024, 10(7), 429; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10070429 - 28 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1030
Abstract
Injectable hydrogels show great promise for bone tissue engineering applications due to their high biocompatibility and drug delivery capabilities. The bone defects in osteoporosis are usually characterized by an oxidative and inflammatory microenvironment that impairs the regeneration capability of bone tissues. To attenuate [...] Read more.
Injectable hydrogels show great promise for bone tissue engineering applications due to their high biocompatibility and drug delivery capabilities. The bone defects in osteoporosis are usually characterized by an oxidative and inflammatory microenvironment that impairs the regeneration capability of bone tissues. To attenuate the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and promote bone regeneration, an anti-oxidative hydrogel with osteogenic capacity was developed in this study. The poorly water soluble, natural antioxidant, resveratrol, was encapsulated in thiolated Pluronic F-127 micelles with over 50-times-enhanced solubility. The injectable hydrogel was facilely formed because of the new thioester bond between the free thiol group in modified F-127 and the arylate group in hyaluronic acid (HA)–acrylate. The resveratrol-loaded hydrogel showed good viscoelastic properties and in vitro stability and was cyto-compatible with bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). The hydrogel allowed for a sustained release of resveratrol for at least two weeks and effectively enhanced the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs by the up-regulation of osteogenic markers, including ALP, OCN, RUNX-2, and COL1. Moreover, the hydrogel exhibited anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory abilities through the scavenging of intracellular ROS in RAW264.7 cells and inhibiting the gene expression and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β under LPS exposure. In summary, the results suggest that our multifunctional hydrogel loaded with resveratrol bearing osteogenic, anti-oxidative, and anti-inflammatory actions is easily prepared and represents a promising resveratrol delivery platform for the repair of osteoporotic bone defects. Full article
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13 pages, 2245 KiB  
Article
Preparation of Gel Forming Polymer-Based Sprays for First Aid Care of Skin Injuries
by Patrícia Alves, Diana Luzio, Kevin de Sá, Ilídio Correia and Paula Ferreira
Gels 2024, 10(5), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10050297 - 25 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1297
Abstract
Currently, there are several types of materials for the treatment of wounds, burns, and other topical injuries available on the market. The most used are gauzes and compresses due to their fluid absorption capacity; however, these materials adhere to the surface of the [...] Read more.
Currently, there are several types of materials for the treatment of wounds, burns, and other topical injuries available on the market. The most used are gauzes and compresses due to their fluid absorption capacity; however, these materials adhere to the surface of the lesions, which can lead to further bleeding and tissue damage upon removal. In the present study, the development of a polymer-based gel that can be applied as a spray provides a new vision in injury protection, respecting the requirements of safety, ease, and quickness of both applicability and removal. The following polymeric sprays were developed to further obtain gels based on different polymers: hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) using polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a plasticizer. The developed sprays revealed suitable properties for use in topical injuries. A protective film was obtained when sprayed on a surface through a casting mechanism. The obtained films adhered to the surface of biological tissue (pig muscle), turning into a gel when the exudate was absorbed, and proved to be washable with saline solution and contribute to the clotting process. Moreover, biocompatibility results showed that all materials were biocompatible, as cell viability was over 90% for all the materials. Full article
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14 pages, 2589 KiB  
Article
Effect of Tannic Acid Concentrations on Temperature-Sensitive Sol–Gel Transition and Stability of Tannic Acid/Pluronic F127 Composite Hydrogels
by Jeong Yun Lee, Hyun Ho Shin, Chungyeon Cho and Ji Hyun Ryu
Gels 2024, 10(4), 256; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10040256 - 10 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1953
Abstract
Recently, interest in polyphenol-containing composite adhesives for various biomedical applications has been growing. Tannic acid (TA) is a polyphenolic compound with advantageous properties, including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Additionally, TA contains multiple hydroxyl groups that exhibit biological activity by forming hydrogen bonds with [...] Read more.
Recently, interest in polyphenol-containing composite adhesives for various biomedical applications has been growing. Tannic acid (TA) is a polyphenolic compound with advantageous properties, including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Additionally, TA contains multiple hydroxyl groups that exhibit biological activity by forming hydrogen bonds with proteins and biomacromolecules. Furthermore, TA-containing polymer composites exhibit excellent tissue adhesion properties. In this study, the gelation behavior and adhesion forces of TA/Pluronic F127 (TA/PluF) composite hydrogels were investigated by varying the TA and PluF concentrations. PluF (above 16 wt%) alone showed temperature-responsive gelation behavior because of the closely packed micelle aggregates. After the addition of a small amount of TA, the TA/PluF hydrogels showed thermosensitive behavior similar to that of PluF hydrogels. However, the TA/PluF hydrogels containing more than 10 wt% TA completely suppressed the thermo-responsive gelation kinetics of PluF, which may have been due to the hydrogen bonds between TA and PluF. In addition, TA/PluF hydrogels with 40 wt% TA showed excellent tissue adhesion properties and bursting pressure in porcine intestinal tissues. These results are expected to aid in understanding the use of mixtures of TA and thermosensitive block copolymers to fabricate adhesive hydrogels for versatile biomedical applications. Full article
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15 pages, 2450 KiB  
Article
Functional Hydrogels for Delivery of the Proteolytic Enzyme Serratiopeptidase
by Katya Kamenova, Anna Prancheva, Stiliyana Stoyanova, Lyubomira Radeva, Ivanka Pencheva-El Tibi, Krassimira Yoncheva, Martin A. Ravutsov, Maya K. Marinova, Svilen P. Simeonov, Simona Mitova, Rumyana Eneva, Maya M. Zaharieva, Hristo Najdenski and Petar D. Petrov
Gels 2024, 10(3), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10030156 - 20 Feb 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2453
Abstract
Hydrogels are superior wound dressings because they can provide protection and hydration of the wound, as well as the controlled release of therapeutic substances to aid tissue regeneration and the healing process. Hydrogels obtained from natural precursors are preferred because of their low [...] Read more.
Hydrogels are superior wound dressings because they can provide protection and hydration of the wound, as well as the controlled release of therapeutic substances to aid tissue regeneration and the healing process. Hydrogels obtained from natural precursors are preferred because of their low cost, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. We describe the synthesis of novel functional hydrogels based on two natural products—citric acid (CA) and pentane-1,2,5-triol (PT, a product from lignocellulose processing) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG-600)—via an environment friendly approach. The hydrogels were prepared via monomer crosslinking through a polycondensation reaction at an elevated temperature in the absence of any solvent. The reagents were blended at three different compositions with molar ratios of hydroxyl (from PT and PEG) to carboxyl (from CA) groups of 1:1, 1:1.4, and 1.4:1, respectively. The effect of the composition on the physicomechanical properties of materials was investigated. All hydrogels exhibited pH-sensitive behavior, while the swelling degree and elastic modulus were dependent on the composition of the polymer network. The proteolytic enzyme serratiopeptidase (SER) was loaded into a hydrogel via physical absorption as a model drug. The release profile of SER and the effects of the enzyme on healthy skin cells were assessed. The results showed that the hydrogel carrier could provide the complete release of the loaded enzyme. Full article
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13 pages, 6193 KiB  
Article
Effect of Spray-Type Alginate Hydrogel Dressing on Burn Wounds
by Jeong Yeon Choi, Yong-Joon Joo, Ri Jin Kang, Hee Kyung Jeon and Gyeong Sik Hong
Gels 2024, 10(2), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10020152 - 19 Feb 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2475
Abstract
Immediate burn wound care is a critical factor influencing the outcomes of burn treatment. In this study, we developed a spray-type alginate hydrogel dressing that promotes wound healing, reduces pain, and increases the convenience of use in a burn treatment emergency. We investigated [...] Read more.
Immediate burn wound care is a critical factor influencing the outcomes of burn treatment. In this study, we developed a spray-type alginate hydrogel dressing that promotes wound healing, reduces pain, and increases the convenience of use in a burn treatment emergency. We investigated the efficiency of newly developed spray-type alginate hydrogel dressing on the wound healing process. We investigated the efficacy of the alginate hydrogel dressing for wound healing in 30 Sprague Dawley rats. Four deep, round second-degree burn wounds (diameter, 1.5 cm) were created bilaterally on the dorsum of the rat’s trunk; the rats were divided into four groups, in which different dressing materials were applied as follows: group A, gauze (control); group B, Mepilex™ (control); group C, 2.25% alginate hydrogel; and group D, 2.5% alginate hydrogel. The gross findings of each group were compared by tracing the remaining wound and performing visual and histological observations and biochemical analysis for proteins associated with wound healing at each time period. In burn wounds, groups C and D showed significantly higher contraction, epithelialization, and healing rates. Histologically, groups C and D showed an improved arrangement of collagen fibers and a thick epithelial layer 14 days after initial wound formation. Group C showed higher CD31, TGF-β, and fibronectin expression in Western blot analyses after day 14. This study suggests that the spray-type alginate hydrogel dressing is an effective material for initial burn wound care. Full article
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13 pages, 5497 KiB  
Article
A Sol–Gel Transition and Self-Healing Hydrogel Triggered via Photodimerization of Coumarin
by Yong Ye, Wenkai Wang, Xin Liu, Yong Chen, Shenghui Tian and Peng Fu
Gels 2024, 10(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10010021 - 26 Dec 2023
Viewed by 1608
Abstract
Reversible chemical covalency provides a path to materials that can degrade and recombine with appropriate stimuli and which can be used for tissue regeneration and repair. However, designing and preparing efficient and quickly self-healing materials has always been a challenge. The preparation strategies [...] Read more.
Reversible chemical covalency provides a path to materials that can degrade and recombine with appropriate stimuli and which can be used for tissue regeneration and repair. However, designing and preparing efficient and quickly self-healing materials has always been a challenge. The preparation strategies of photoresponsive gels attract a lot of attention due to their precise spatial and temporal control and their predetermined response to light stimulation. In this work, the linear copolymer PAC was synthesized via precipitation polymerization of acrylic acid and 7-(2-acrylate-ethoxylated)-4-methylcoumarin. The coumarin groups on the copolymer PAC side chains provide a reversible chemical cross-linking via photostimulation, which achieves reversible regulation of the gel network structure. The concentration of 18 wt% PAC solution produces gelation under irradiation with 365 nm. In contrast, PAC gel is restored to soluble copolymers under irradiation with 254 nm. Meanwhile, the mechanical and self-healing properties of the gel were also explored. It is demonstrated that the cracks of the gel can be repaired simply, quickly, and efficiently. Furthermore, the PAC copolymer shows an excellent adhesion property based on the reversible sol–gel transition. Thus, the PAC gel has considerable potential for applications in engineering and biomedical materials. Full article
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16 pages, 2126 KiB  
Article
Bio-Resorption Control of Magnesium Alloy AZ31 Coated with High and Low Molecular Weight Polyethylene Oxide (PEO) Hydrogels
by Raffaella Aversa, Valeria Perrotta, Chao Wang and Antonio Apicella
Gels 2023, 9(10), 779; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9100779 - 25 Sep 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1321
Abstract
Magnesium AZ31 alloy has been chosen as bio-resorbable temporary prosthetic implants to investigate the degradation processes in a simulating body fluid (SBF) of the bare metal and the ones coated with low and high-molecular-weight PEO hydrogels. Hydrogel coatings are proposed to control the [...] Read more.
Magnesium AZ31 alloy has been chosen as bio-resorbable temporary prosthetic implants to investigate the degradation processes in a simulating body fluid (SBF) of the bare metal and the ones coated with low and high-molecular-weight PEO hydrogels. Hydrogel coatings are proposed to control the bioresorption rate of AZ31 alloy. The alloy was preliminary hydrothermally treated to form a magnesium hydroxide layer. 2 mm discs were used in bioresorption tests. Scanning electron microscopy was used to characterize the surface morphology of the hydrothermally treated and PEO-coated magnesium alloy surfaces. The variation of pH and the mass of Mg2+ ions present in the SBF corroding medium have been monitored for 15 days. Corrosion current densities (Icorr) and corrosion potentials (Ecorr) were evaluated from potentiodynamic polarisation tests on the samples exposed to the SBF solution. Kinetics of cumulative Mg ions mass released in the corroding solution have been evaluated regarding cations diffusion and mass transport parameters. The initial corrosion rates for the H- and L-Mw PEO-coated specimens were similar (0.95 ± 0.12 and 1.82 ± 0.52 mg/cm2day, respectively) and almost 4 to 5 times slower than that of the uncoated system (6.08 mg/cm2day). Results showed that the highly swollen PEO hydrogel coatings may extend into the bulk solution, protecting the coated metal and efficiently controlling the degradation rate of magnesium alloys. These findings focus more research effort on investigating such systems as tunable bioresorbable prosthetic materials providing idoneous environments to support cells and bone tissue repair. Full article
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12 pages, 2818 KiB  
Article
Hyaluronic Acid–Alginate Homogeneous Structures with Polylactide Coating Applied in Controlled Antibiotic Release
by Anna Trusek, Maciej Grabowski, Omoyemi Ajayi and Edward Kijak
Gels 2023, 9(7), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9070526 - 28 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1393
Abstract
The use of a controlled-release drug carrier is an innovative solution for the treatment of local infections, in particular in dentistry, skin diseases, and in open wounds. The biocompatibility, biodegradability, the possibility of a large amount of drug adsorbed (especially those with hydrophilic [...] Read more.
The use of a controlled-release drug carrier is an innovative solution for the treatment of local infections, in particular in dentistry, skin diseases, and in open wounds. The biocompatibility, biodegradability, the possibility of a large amount of drug adsorbed (especially those with hydrophilic properties), and the ability to create structures of any shape and size are the reasons for hydrogels to be frequently studied. The main disadvantage of hydrogel carriers is the rapid rate of drug release; hence, in this study, an attempt was made to additionally chemically cross-link 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethyl aminopropyl)-1-carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) with the hyaluronic acid–alginate (HA–SAL) structure. The answer to significantly reduce the mass flux typical for hydrogel structure was to surround it with a polymer layer using a dry cover. By coating the carriers with polylactide, the release time was increased by around forty times. As the carriers were designed to reduce local bacterial infections, among others in dentistry, the released antibiotics were amoxycillin, metronidazole, and doxycycline. Full article
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Review

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27 pages, 2660 KiB  
Review
Advances in Hydrogel-Based Drug Delivery Systems
by Boya Liu and Kuo Chen
Gels 2024, 10(4), 262; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10040262 - 13 Apr 2024
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5329
Abstract
Hydrogels, with their distinctive three-dimensional networks of hydrophilic polymers, drive innovations across various biomedical applications. The ability of hydrogels to absorb and retain significant volumes of water, coupled with their structural integrity and responsiveness to environmental stimuli, renders them ideal for drug delivery, [...] Read more.
Hydrogels, with their distinctive three-dimensional networks of hydrophilic polymers, drive innovations across various biomedical applications. The ability of hydrogels to absorb and retain significant volumes of water, coupled with their structural integrity and responsiveness to environmental stimuli, renders them ideal for drug delivery, tissue engineering, and wound healing. This review delves into the classification of hydrogels based on cross-linking methods, providing insights into their synthesis, properties, and applications. We further discuss the recent advancements in hydrogel-based drug delivery systems, including oral, injectable, topical, and ocular approaches, highlighting their significance in enhancing therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, we address the challenges faced in the clinical translation of hydrogels and propose future directions for leveraging their potential in personalized medicine and regenerative healthcare solutions. Full article
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27 pages, 4715 KiB  
Review
Advancements and Challenges in Hydrogel Engineering for Regenerative Medicine
by Hossein Omidian, Sumana Dey Chowdhury and Renae L. Wilson
Gels 2024, 10(4), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10040238 - 30 Mar 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2157
Abstract
This manuscript covers the latest advancements and persisting challenges in the domain of tissue engineering, with a focus on the development and engineering of hydrogel scaffolds. It highlights the critical role of these scaffolds in emulating the native tissue environment, thereby providing a [...] Read more.
This manuscript covers the latest advancements and persisting challenges in the domain of tissue engineering, with a focus on the development and engineering of hydrogel scaffolds. It highlights the critical role of these scaffolds in emulating the native tissue environment, thereby providing a supportive matrix for cell growth, tissue integration, and reducing adverse reactions. Despite significant progress, this manuscript emphasizes the ongoing struggle to achieve an optimal balance between biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical stability, crucial for clinical success. It also explores the integration of cutting-edge technologies like 3D bioprinting and biofabrication in constructing complex tissue structures, alongside innovative materials and techniques aimed at enhancing tissue growth and functionality. Through a detailed examination of these efforts, the manuscript sheds light on the potential of hydrogels in advancing regenerative medicine and the necessity for multidisciplinary collaboration to navigate the challenges ahead. Full article
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20 pages, 2078 KiB  
Review
Advanced Hydrogel-Based Strategies for Enhanced Bone and Cartilage Regeneration: A Comprehensive Review
by Diego De Leon-Oliva, Diego Liviu Boaru, Roque Emilio Perez-Exposito, Oscar Fraile-Martinez, Cielo García-Montero, Raul Diaz, Julia Bujan, Natalio García-Honduvilla, Laura Lopez-Gonzalez, Melchor Álvarez-Mon, Jose V. Saz, Basilio de la Torre and Miguel A. Ortega
Gels 2023, 9(11), 885; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels9110885 - 8 Nov 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2767
Abstract
Bone and cartilage tissue play multiple roles in the organism, including kinematic support, protection of organs, and hematopoiesis. Bone and, above all, cartilaginous tissues present an inherently limited capacity for self-regeneration. The increasing prevalence of disorders affecting these crucial tissues, such as bone [...] Read more.
Bone and cartilage tissue play multiple roles in the organism, including kinematic support, protection of organs, and hematopoiesis. Bone and, above all, cartilaginous tissues present an inherently limited capacity for self-regeneration. The increasing prevalence of disorders affecting these crucial tissues, such as bone fractures, bone metastases, osteoporosis, or osteoarthritis, underscores the urgent imperative to investigate therapeutic strategies capable of effectively addressing the challenges associated with their degeneration and damage. In this context, the emerging field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (TERM) has made important contributions through the development of advanced hydrogels. These crosslinked three-dimensional networks can retain substantial amounts of water, thus mimicking the natural extracellular matrix (ECM). Hydrogels exhibit exceptional biocompatibility, customizable mechanical properties, and the ability to encapsulate bioactive molecules and cells. In addition, they can be meticulously tailored to the specific needs of each patient, providing a promising alternative to conventional surgical procedures and reducing the risk of subsequent adverse reactions. However, some issues need to be addressed, such as lack of mechanical strength, inconsistent properties, and low-cell viability. This review describes the structure and regeneration of bone and cartilage tissue. Then, we present an overview of hydrogels, including their classification, synthesis, and biomedical applications. Following this, we review the most relevant and recent advanced hydrogels in TERM for bone and cartilage tissue regeneration. Full article
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