  In this chapter polyelectrolyte intelligent gels are examined along three
broad lines. The effects of different physical, chemical and biological stimuli
on gels response are analysed and mechanisms of response are outlined. The
broad range of biomedical applications of smart gels is reviewed and limits and
perspectives of the proposed techniques and devices are crititically discussed.
Finally, continuous modelling of gel electromechanochemistry is described,
providing quantitative tools to assess swelling equilibrium conditions and
coupled kinetics.
