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Insulin-like growth factor-1 in articular cartilage repair for osteoarthritis treatment
Caining Wen1, Limei Xu1, Xiao Xu1
1Department of Orthopedics, Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Orthopedic Technology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518035, China.
Abstract:
Articular cartilage repair is a critical issue in osteoarthritis (OA) treatment. The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling pathway has been implicated in articular cartilage repair. IGF-1 is a member of a family of growth factors that are structurally closely related to pro-insulin and can promote chondrocyte proliferation, enhance matrix production, and inhibit chondrocyte apoptosis. Here, we reviewed the role of IGF-1 in cartilage anabolism and catabolism. Moreover, we discussed the potential role of IGF-1 in OA treatment. Of note, we summarized the recent progress on IGF delivery systems. Optimization of IGF delivery systems will facilitate treatment application in cartilage repair and improve OA treatment efficacy.

