The article reviews the development and application of glucose-responsive materials, particularly hydrogels, based on concanavalin A (Con A), a bioactive protein with high affinity for glucose and mannose. Con A is used to create smart materials that can monitor blood glucose levels and control insulin delivery, making them valuable for diabetes management. The review highlights the structural and functional aspects of Con A, its binding mechanisms, and the development of various Con A-based materials such as hydrogels, microgels, nanoparticles, and films. These materials are designed to respond to glucose concentration changes, allowing for controlled insulin release. The article also discusses the use of Con A in biosensors for glucose detection and the potential of these materials in cancer theranostics. The focus is on the latest advancements and their implications for improving diabetes management and therapeutic approaches.The article reviews the development and application of glucose-responsive materials, particularly hydrogels, based on concanavalin A (Con A), a bioactive protein with high affinity for glucose and mannose. Con A is used to create smart materials that can monitor blood glucose levels and control insulin delivery, making them valuable for diabetes management. The review highlights the structural and functional aspects of Con A, its binding mechanisms, and the development of various Con A-based materials such as hydrogels, microgels, nanoparticles, and films. These materials are designed to respond to glucose concentration changes, allowing for controlled insulin release. The article also discusses the use of Con A in biosensors for glucose detection and the potential of these materials in cancer theranostics. The focus is on the latest advancements and their implications for improving diabetes management and therapeutic approaches.