Polymer complex multilayers (PCMs) can be engineered
into various
structures with tunable properties via layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly
driven by noncovalent forces. Due to their ease of preparation, capability
of integrating multiple functional components, and excellent substrate
compliance, biocompatible PCMs as coating materials or individual
entities have attracted extensive attention in biomedical applications.
This Spotlight on Applications presents recent progress on PCMs applied
for drug delivery and medical devices. We provide several examples
to address the importance of using PCM platforms to achieve controlled
drug delivery including stimuli-triggered release, sustained release,
and spatiotemporal sequential release. The effects of PCM coatings
on the bioresponse regulation and performance enhancement of implantable
devices are also highlighted. Moreover, the design and fabrication
of flexible electrical and optical elements modified with LBL PCMs
have been discussed, which demonstrates the great potential to advance
emerging wearable devices for disease monitoring and health management.