Key Role of STAT3 in Osteoarthritis: From Pathogenic Mechanisms to Targeted Therapy

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a multifactorial degenerative disease characterized by articular cartilage degeneration. Currently, the underlying mechanisms of its pathogenesis remain unclear, and effective treatment options are limited. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a key transcription factor involved in various physiological and pathological processes, and recent evidence suggests its association with the pathogenesis of OA. Janus kinase (JAK)/interleukin-6/STAT3 signaling pathway plays an important role in STAT3 involved in disease occurrence. This review summarizes the common signaling pathways involving STAT3 in OA and its roles in different cell types. Additionally, we systematically discuss the latest therapeutic approaches targeting STAT3 for OA treatment, aiming to identify drugs that can enhance delivery efficiency and binding affinity. By discussing molecular mechanisms and treatment methods, this review provides a foundation for subsequent research on the STAT3 signaling pathway and OA.