Targeted therapy for knee osteoarthritis: From basic to clinics

As the aging population grows and lifestyle factors become more prevalent, the incidence of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is expected to continue to increase in the coming decades. This presents a substantial public health challenge with an impact on the quality of life of the affected individuals. The absence of targeted therapeutic interventions tailored specifically for KOA underscores the recognition of this condition as a significant medical concern characterized by an urgent unmet need for effective treatments. Despite advances in understanding its pathophysiology and progression, there remains a gap in the availability of therapies capable of adequately addressing the diverse clinical manifestations and underlying mechanisms of KOA. Fortunately, numerous novel targeted therapies, including biological, nanotechnology, gene, and cell therapies, are currently undergoing clinical trials for KOA treatment. Advancements in drug nanocarriers and delivery systems have demonstrated the potential to enhance the efficacy of therapeutic agents for KOA. In this review, we summarize all the advancements in targeted therapy for KOA, including small-molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, nanocarrier-based therapy, gene therapy and cytotherapy. By analyzing the latest breakthroughs in pharmaceutical therapies and relevant clinical data, this review serves as a valuable resource for clinicians and researchers involved in the ongoing quest for effective KOA treatments and provides hopes for improved management and outcomes for patients with this debilitating condition.