Intra-Articular Injectable Biomaterials: Therapeutic Delivery for Cartilage Repair and Regeneration. Academic Article uri icon

abstract

  • Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage deterioration and subsequent inflammatory changes in the underlying bone. Injectable hydrogels have emerged as a promising approach for controlled drug delivery in cartilage therapies. This review article focuses on the latest developments in utilizing injectable hydrogels as vehicles for precise and targeted drug delivery to promote cartilage repair and regeneration. The review begins by discussing the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis to provide a comprehensive understanding of the disease process. Subsequently, we delve into the various types of injectable hydrogels used for drug delivery to cartilage. Specifically, physically and chemically crosslinked injectable hydrogels are explored, with an emphasis on their fabrication strategies and their capacity to encapsulate and release therapeutic agents in a controlled manner. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of incorporating growth factors, anti-inflammatory drugs, and stem cells within these hydrogel systems. We highlight their crucial roles in modulating cellular behavior, promoting cartilage regeneration, and reducing inflammation. Overall, this review offers a comprehensive guide to navigating the promising landscape of hydrogel-based therapeutics in osteoarthritis. By providing insights into the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis and discussing the advancements in injectable hydrogels for controlled drug delivery, this review aims to enhance our understanding and foster further developments in the field of cartilage repair and regeneration. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

published proceedings

  • Adv Healthc Mater

author list (cited authors)

  • Kalairaj, M. S., Pradhan, R., Saleem, W., Smith, M. M., & Gaharwar, A. K.

complete list of authors

  • Kalairaj, Manivannan Sivaperuman||Pradhan, Ridhi||Saleem, Waqas||Smith, Morgan M||Gaharwar, Akhilesh K

publication date

  • February 2024

publisher