Advanced collagen-based scaffolds for cartilage and osteochondral regeneration: A review

Osteoarthritis (OA), a prevalent degenerative joint disease, presents a formidable challenge to human health due to its complex pathophysiology. Despite various clinical treatments, a definitive cure for OA remains elusive, leaving patients with only symptomatic relief. Tissue engineering has emerged as a promising approach for OA treatment, offering the potential to restore damaged cartilage and osteochondral tissues. Collagen-based scaffolds, renowned for their superior biocompatibility and bioactivity, hold significant potential in promoting effective cartilage and osteochondral regeneration. Over the past decades, substantial progress has been made in the design and clinical translation of collagen-based scaffolds for cartilage and osteochondral tissue engineering. However, no comprehensive review has yet addressed the application of collagen scaffold materials for OA treatment. This review highlights the advanced fabrication of collagen-based scaffolds, including porous matrices, hydrogels, and microspheres, and their integration with cells, growth factors, and pharmaceuticals for OA therapy. Additionally, it examines the clinical translation of collagen-integrated constructs for managing OA. With continued innovation, collagen-enriched scaffolds are expected to play a pivotal role in improving outcomes for OA patients.