A review of nanomaterials in osteoarthritis treatment and immune modulation

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a highly prevalent degenerative cartilage disease globally. The medical community has recognized it as one of the major public health problems today. Nanomaterials are considered the most promising avenue for OA treatment because they exhibit unique physicochemical properties such as high catalytic activity, bio-enzyme-like reaction kinetics, and modulation of joint immune responses. Besides, nanomaterials can exert higher targeting to improve therapeutic efficacy and reduce side effects. These unique advantages have led to the widespread development of nanomaterials for OA treatment, and they are gradually seeing their most prosperous moment. A timely and comprehensive review of OA pathogenesis-immunomodulation-therapeutic efficacy from a nanomaterials perspective would greatly broaden this research area. This review summarizes the recent advances in nanomaterials for OA treatment. Finally, the main challenges and opportunities for nanomaterials to modulate the immune system for OA treatment are discussed.